Top Tips for Students to Make the Most of the Early May Bank Holiday

For students across the United Kingdom, the Early May Bank Holiday often arrives at a perfect time – just as spring is in full swing and exam season is fast approaching. 

It’s a rare chance to pause, take a breather, and enjoy a well-earned break from lectures, deadlines, and revision. But for many students, the question is always the same: how do you actually make the most of this extra day off?

Whether you’re someone who prefers to relax, socialise, explore new places, or stay productive, there are plenty of ways to ensure that the Early May Bank Holiday doesn’t simply pass you by unnoticed. 

From day trips to self-care routines, here are some top tips to help students maximise their long weekend.

Take a Day Trip and Explore Somewhere New

One of the easiest and most rewarding ways to make the most of a bank holiday is by exploring somewhere different. 

With university life often feeling like a constant loop between campus, accommodation, and the library, a change of scenery can do wonders for mental wellbeing. The UK has countless destinations perfect for a day trip – from coastal towns and countryside walks to historic cities steeped in culture.

Travelling needn’t be expensive either. Many places are just a short train or coach journey away, and students can often benefit from discounted travel with railcards or group deals. 

Exploring a new environment, even for just a few hours, can provide a refreshing reset and break up the routine of student life.

Spend Quality Time with Friends and Flatmates

Of course, not every student has the budget or desire to travel far. The Early May Bank Holiday is also an ideal time to catch up properly with friends, housemates, or even family members. 

The pressures of assignments and part-time jobs often mean social plans take a back seat during term time, so a long weekend provides a brilliant opportunity to reconnect.

It doesn’t have to involve elaborate plans either. Simple things like cooking a meal together, having a movie night, or even organising a picnic in a nearby park can create memorable moments without costing a fortune. 

After all, university life isn’t just about studying – it’s also about building relationships and creating experiences with those around you.

Give Yourself Permission to Rest and Recharge

On the other hand, for some students, the best way to spend the bank holiday might be by doing very little at all. With the constant demands of coursework, revision, and sometimes working part-time jobs, students can often underestimate just how valuable rest can be.

Using the extra day for a lie-in, a slow morning, or indulging in a bit of self-care can be just as productive as anything else. This could be as simple as reading a book for pleasure, going for a long walk in nature, or switching off devices for a digital detox. 

The main goal is to use the time to recharge mentally and physically, leaving you better prepared for the busy weeks ahead.

Use the Time to Get Organised

For students who prefer to use their time proactively, the Early May Bank Holiday presents the perfect chance to get organised before exam season hits its peak. Even setting aside just a few hours to plan your upcoming weeks can pay off in the long run.

Creating a revision timetable, decluttering your workspace, catching up on notes, or even preparing meals for the week ahead can all help ease future stress. 

It’s also a great time to think beyond university life – updating your CV, researching internships, or looking into part-time work opportunities for the summer can all be valuable ways to spend the day.

Make the Most of Local Activities and Events

Many towns and cities put on special events over the Early May Bank Holiday, and students can often take advantage of free or budget-friendly activities close to home. From food festivals and outdoor cinemas to markets, exhibitions, and live music events, there’s often something going on for everyone.

Checking local event listings or social media pages in your university city can help uncover hidden gems happening right on your doorstep. Not only is this a great way to enjoy the long weekend, but it also gives students a chance to feel more connected to the local community.

Enjoy Some Well-Deserved ‘Me Time’

Finally, while spending time with others can be a joy, there’s also value in dedicating some of the bank holiday to yourself. With student life often being fast-paced and highly social, carving out a bit of solo time can be incredibly restorative.

Whether that means heading out for a solo coffee date, going on a peaceful walk, watching your favourite film, or simply reflecting on your goals and progress so far, the important thing is to do something that feels nourishing for you. 

Sometimes the best ideas, clarity, or motivation come from moments of quiet and reflection.

Conclusion: Make it Count in Your Own Way

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way for students to spend the Early May Bank Holiday. What matters most is being intentional with your time – whether that’s through adventure, relaxation, productivity, or simply doing nothing at all.

This brief break is a valuable opportunity to reset, recharge, and enjoy life beyond the lecture hall. 

However you choose to spend it, make it a weekend that works for you – because student life is about balance, and the Early May Bank Holiday is the perfect reminder to enjoy both the work and the play.