How to Host a Stress-Free, Luxe BBQ in London Over the May Bank Holiday
There’s something delightfully British — and charmingly optimistic — about planning a May Bank Holiday BBQ.
Especially in London, where the forecast is more roulette wheel than reliable. Still, we carry on. Because nothing ushers in the social season quite like the the unmistakable sound and aroma of something sizzling and a gathering of people you haven’t seen since December.
The capital’s back gardens — whatever their size — come to life over a long weekend. From bijou patios in Chelsea to leafy squares in Hampstead, Londoners lean into the long weekend with iced rosé, al fresco dining, and a shared appreciation for being in the open-air at last. And while the vibe may be laid-back, the planning rarely is.
Here’s how to host a barbecue which feels polished and relaxed in equal measure, puts your guests at ease and gives you the freedom to be a great host. And best of all, make it look effortless.
Elegant London garden party setup for May Bank Holiday BBQ
Think Like a Guest Before You Think Like a Host
Before picking up the grill tongs, consider how things will look and feel from your guests’ perspective. How will they enter? Where will they leave coats or bags? If there’s side access to the garden, a discrete sign can help avoid confusion. If not, assign someone to door duty — especially useful once the music’s playing and conversation drowns out the doorbell.
Don’t Rush the Grill
A common mishap with BBQ cooking is starting too late. Charcoal barbecues need a good 90 minutes to two hours before they’re ready to cook anything properly.
Lighting the coals is just the beginning — they need time to ignite, ash over, and settle into a consistently hot bed of embers. Skipping this step risks uneven cooking, flare-ups, or worse — serving half-done kebabs.
Even gas grills benefit from more preheat time than most expect. Allow at least 30 minutes with the lid closed, enough to build steady heat and burn off any lingering grease. It also primes the grates for proper searing.
The secret to that first plate of perfectly charred halloumi or sausages? Heat that’s been quietly building while you’ve been topping up drinks, laying out cushions, or placing those final sprigs of mint.
Be Neighbourly
A word in advance to your neighbours — or better still, an invitation — is always good form. London gardens tend to be separated by not much more than a fence and a flowering hydrangea and noise will travel. If your gathering is likely to be lively, a gentle heads-up gives others a chance to plan around it and helps keep things cordial later.
Design With Scale in Mind
Not every garden in London is a Chelsea contender — and it doesn’t need to be. Whether you’ve a broad lawn or a cleverly styled courtyard, the key is zoning the space thoughtfully. Create pockets for conversation, areas for drinks and food, and somewhere children can play without toppling the glassware.
A box of garden games or a simple scavenger hunt can go a long way for younger guests. And if space is limited, swap the football for giant Jenga or boules — both are more sociable and less disruptive.
Outsource the Grill, Elevate the Experience
For ten or more guests, it’s worth handing over the apron. A BBQ chef brings both flair and relief. For larger numbers, a hog roast provides wow factor and ensures there’s more than enough to go round.
Planning for all tastes is just as important. Non-meat eaters deserve more than a few side salads. Think vibrant platters of grilled vegetables, dressed grains, flatbreads, hummus, stuffed peppers, pomegranate seeds and chargrilled halloumi.
Whoever’s cooking, take a moment to zone the grill. Keep a dedicated area for plant-based food, away from the area where meat is prepared. It’s a small gesture — though one which reflects well on any host.
One final rule worth observing? Don’t let latecomers arrive to a hoovered up buffet. Set a few selections aside to replenish when needed. And when the evening settles in, a second round — flatbreads, cheese, crisps, something warm from the oven will be fully appreciated.
Skip the Queue, Not the Hospitality
Queues are for Borough Market, not your soirée. Set up multiple ‘help yourself’ stations: a chilled drinks corner with ice buckets, mixers and garnishes, snack bowls and starters dotted throughout seating areas, and chilled desserts served in jars or pre-cut slices. This keeps guests mingling and avoids bottlenecks around the barbecue.
And please — put the paper plates away. This is your home, not a community picnic. Trust your guests and opt for real glassware and crockery. Yes, there’s always a small risk of breakages, but it’s more than offset by the atmosphere it brings. Real plates add a sense of occasion, reflect the care you’ve taken, and help make the setting feel genuinely considered.
Prepare for Both Sun and Storm
London has been known to deliver the odd scorcher in May. So yes — plan for rain, but don’t forget shelter from the sun. Parasols, sail shades or a few paper fans laid out in anticipation will always be appreciated.
Have an indoor space ready just in case it turns cold — candles, cushions, a playlist and somewhere for people to sit comfortably. A well-prepared plan B can feel every bit as enjoyable as the garden version, especially if it’s been thoughtfully styled.
Make the Exit as Smooth as the Arrival
As dusk falls and the last round of drinks is poured, think ahead. Have taxi numbers ready, or your Uber app to hand. A considered farewell — like the welcome — makes for a graceful finish and a memorable event.
Or… Don’t Host It Alone
There’s an art to a London garden party which feels relaxed yet refined. If your diary’s already full and there’s limited time to plan, or your household is already running at capacity, don’t hesitate to look for extra support.
At Consider it Done, we take care of everything — calmly and comprehensively. From sourcing a chef and having your garden styled, to organising a weather-proof gazebo and making sure drinks are topped up right through to evening. You’re free to be a great host, relax and enjoy yourself.
The perfect Bank Holiday BBQ doesn’t require perfection. Just care, thought, and the freedom to be fully present.
Pro tip: Planning ahead is key — which includes the after party clean-up. For a simple, efficient post-BBQ reset, see our BBQ Cleaning Guide for London Hosts.
If support would help turn your plans into something wonderful, we’d be delighted to assist. ‘Select a Day’ for a call below and find out how it works.