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On Your Radar: What to Buy, Do and See This May

From the hottest openings to just-landed treats, here is everything you need to know about for the month ahead.

Mingle: Capri in the City at The Berkeley Rooftop Pool & Bar, London
From 1 May

For those lacking the time to jet off to sunnier climes, the fabulous Capri in the City will be returning to The Berkeley’s Rooftop Pool and Bar this month. Created in collaboration with Aqua di Parma, think citrus trees, striped sun loungers, rustic Italian dishes and limoncello aplenty. All overlooking London’s iconic cityscape. www.maybourne.com

Curtsey: Royal Warrant Holders Collaborations

Fashion has taken a regal turn of late. And it’s all down to the British heritage brands worn by Queen Elizabeth II, collaborating with Royal Collection Trust to celebrate the centenary of her birth. Including must-buys from names such as Dents, Launer and Fulton Umbrellas, tartan is everywhere. Ranging from Royal Collection Trust X Burberry Car Coat (£2,190) right down to the Tartan Socks (£18) from Corgi Socks. www.royalcollectionshop.co.uk

Expand: Brighton Festival, Brighton
1-25 May

The 60th edition of this epic festival will present a multi-arts line-up featuring over 100 events. Spanning theatre, dance, music, literature and debate, there’s six festival exclusives. This includes one-off performances from Patti Smith and Laurie Anderson. Plus the first ever collaboration between Sampa the Great and W.I.T.C.H. Oh how we do like to be beside the seaside. www.brightonfestival.org

Slather: Libi & Daughters No.27 Sun Shield SPF50+, £100

The brainchild of leading dermatologist, Dr Inna Szalontay, this haute couture cream contains high factor mineral sun protection which works all day. Plus a subtle tint of radiance to pep up every skin tone. Wearing SPF is a non-negotiable – so it pays to invest in one you actually want to wear. www.libi.com

Explore: Henry Moore Monumental Nature at Kew Gardens, London
9 May-31 January 2027

This long-awaited landmark exhibition finally arrives at Kew, boasting the largest ever outdoor exhibition of Moore’s works to date. For a start it showcases 30 monumental sculptures displayed across the garden’s iconic vistas, Visitors will also be able to enjoy a comprehensive exhibition in Kew’s Shirley Sherwood Gallery, which includes major and lesser-known pieces by the UK’s most cherished sculptor. www.kew.org

Hold: Sarah Haran Dahlia Tote, £525 

From bright bombers at Prada to the softest dresses at Tod’s, the Spring/Summer 2026 shows were awash with luxe leather in 50 shades of red. Not feeling runway ready? We’re cooing over this beautiful tote from key British designer, Sarah Haran. It’s an effortless way to jump on the trend and will add a pop of colour to classic neutrals. www.sarahharan.com

Visit: RHS Chelsea Flower Show, London
19-23 May

The world’s most famous flower show returns to Royal Hospital Chelsea – offering stunning garden inspiration and perhaps a Pimm’s or two. This year boasts Tate’s first ever show garden, copious fine dining options and esteemed growers in The Great Pavillion. Trinket shoppers can also rejoice as the garden gnome ban has been lifted for a charity auction of little guys decorated by the likes of Sir Brian May, Cate Blanchette and many others. www.rhs.org.uk

Stay: Claridge’s X The Newt at Claridge’s, London
18-31 May

Wishing to take floral fanciness even further? RHS Chelsea Flower Show sponsors and leading country estate, The Newt, will be teaming up with Claridge’s for the ultimate town and country collaboration. Available for two weeks only, expect to see showstopping installations, produce-packed menus, signature tipples, plus a hallway of shiny apples to pick at. Book Claridge’s X The Newt Stay (from £1,220) for the most decadent experience. www.maybourne.com

Trip: David Bowie; You Are Not Alone, London
Now-28 June

Stars including Boy George and David Gilmour were out in force for the premiere of spring’s most exciting musical landing – and Bowie fans old and new will want to grab a ticket to this eagerly awaited multimedia show. Created in close collaboration with The David Bowie Estate, you’ll be transfixed with legendary performances and insight into the creative mind of one of the world’s most visionary artists. www.lightroom.uk

Dazzle: PRYA The Padel Collection, from £115

And finally, with Padel the UK’s fastest growing sport, fine jewellers, PRYA, have embraced it with their just-dropped collection. Blurring the lines between sport and style, pear-cut stones inspired by the padel racket take centre stage. Perfect for layering and made with 18k gold vermeil or sterling silver. Because tennis bracelets are so last season. www.priya.co.uk

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