If you haven’t already checked it out, Rest Less Events is our virtual community and events platform. All sessions are run through Zoom and cover a vast range of topics.
With around 100 events running monthly – from tech workshops to nature talks – there’s surely something to interest you.
Below, we’ve pulled together some of our most exciting events coming up in May.
1. Japan: From the Mongols to the Meiji Restoration
When? Friday 3rd at 2:30pm
Marred by civil wars and bloodthirsty power struggles, medieval times are a turbulent (but fascinating) chapter in Japan’s history.
In this one-off event, historian Jem takes us through this feudal era, highlighting the key events and figures. It’s a great session for those looking to explore a new corner of world history (or those currently enjoying Shōgun on Disney+).
2. Awakening to Colour: Matisse and Derain in the South of France
When? Tuesday 7th at 11:30am
Around the turn of the 20th century, friends Henri Matisse and André Derain spent their days painting together in the quaint fishing village of Collioure. Captivated by the light and colour of Southern France, they pioneered a new form of painting; one marked by unique colour combinations and bold brushstrokes.
When they first showed their paintings in 1905, some people mocked them, and critics called them ‘wild beasts’. But, even today, their influence remains. Sign up for this one-off event to learn more.
3. Pilates with Hand Weights
When? Tuesdays at 6:00pm
Strength training isn’t just for bodybuilders with bulging biceps – it’s important for maintaining bone density and muscle mass as we age. Plus, strength training can lower our risk of falls and health conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
To get stronger, why not tune in to Helen Tudge’s new event: Pilates with Hand Weights? This class uses small weights (or even filled water bottles) and is suited to people with different levels of mobility. You can participate at your own pace to gradually build your stamina.
4. Dad's Army – Revealing Their Real Wartime Service
When? Thursday 9th at 11:30am
Running from 1968 to 1977, Dad’s Army was one of the UK’s favourite sitcoms. Throughout nine series and 80 episodes, 18 million people regularly tuned in to watch the antics of the Walmington-on-Sea Home Guard during World War 2.
But did you know that some of the actors weren’t merely playing soldiers? Many of them – and some of the writers – actually served during WW2. Book a spot at this one-off event to learn more about their real-life military experiences.
5. Germany – Cruising the Rhine
When? Thursday 9th at 4:00pm
This month, seasoned traveller Sue Ablett brings us tales from her recent adventure: a cruise down Germany’s Rhine River.
Hopping onboard at Cologne, Sue’s cruise took her to scenic spots like Koblenz and one of Rhineland’s most famous wine villages: Rudesheim. However, the sweeping scenes from the boat’s deck were just as picturesque as the stops along the way.
This is a perfect event for anyone interested in world travel or considering a river cruise of their own.
You can learn more about Sue’s travels in our article here or explore river cruise deals below.
6. The Normans in Italy
When? Tuesdays 14th and 28th at 11:30am
Here in the UK, we often hear about the Normans’ activities in Britain and France but less so about their conquest of Italy.
In this two-part event, host Dr Lillian Cespedes Gonzalez will take us through their invasion while diving into some of the characters that made it possible. Then, she’ll explore the exciting artistic and architectural legacy the Normans left in Italy. It’s a fascinating look into a little-known but influential corner of Mediterranean history.
7. An introduction to 1816
When? Thursday 16th at 4:00pm
1816 was a turbulent year for many people worldwide. In April the year before, Mt Tambora on the island of Sumbawa erupted, killing tens of thousands of Indonesians. But its effect wasn’t just felt there, as it triggered deadly cold weather in Europe and North America the following year – leading to its nickname: ‘the year without summer’.
But the year wasn’t without a bright spark, as 1816 saw astonishing creativity in the British Isles. Freak weather caused by the eruption inspired dazzling paintings from masters like J.M.W. Turner and John Constable, and literary milestones were reached, such as Mary Shelley’s first draft of Frankenstein.
Tune into this one-off talk to find out more.
8. Houses of History
When? Tuesdays 21st and 28th at 4:00pm
One of the things the English certainly do well is magnificent houses. From sweeping stately manors to spiralling castles, there are plenty of lavish abodes across the country. And behind their grand, iron-studded doors are plenty of stories waiting to be discovered.
In this four-part series (starting in May and finishing in June), host Ian will lead us through the histories of some of England’s most famous houses – beginning with the awe-inspiring Chatsworth House. In each session, we’ll learn about the people who lived there, the art that hangs on the walls, and the sprawling gardens and grounds. It’s perfect for lovers of history and architecture.
9. Drains & Sewers in London: see where the drainwater goes
When? Thursday 23rd at 11:30am
Standing on the streets of London, it’s impossible not to be impressed by the ingenious engineering all around. But have you ever taken a moment to think about what lies beneath?
In this talk, Blue Badge Tour guide Andrew explores the vast networks of drains and sewers under our capital’s surface. He’ll introduce us to the fascinating story of the nightmen and the ‘Cathedral of Drains’, and give us an insight into how the system works. It’s an intriguing and unique look into London’s history.
10. Amazing Journeys in History
When? Friday 24th at 2:30pm
History is full of amazing journeys – from the Apollo 11 moon landing to Ernest Shackleton’s heroic rescue of his stranded Endurance crew. And while some have led to glory and discovery, others have ended in tragedy.
This talk will investigate some of history’s forgotten yet incredible journeys.
Final thoughts…
From unique journeys into history to mindful exercise classes, we hope this list demonstrates the wide variety of Rest Less Events available this May.
However, with around 100 different events each month, we can’t mention them all here. So why not check out our calendar to discover what else is on?
Our free membership offers users two events per month (and if you miss the ones you sign up for, you can always watch the recordings afterwards). But if you’d like unlimited access to everything that Rest Less Events has to offer, you can upgrade to our premium membership for just £6.99 per month.
Are you a Rest Less Events member? If so, which ones have you enjoyed lately? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.