November in London brings a distinct shift in atmosphere. As the autumn leaves begin turning into winter frost, the city takes on a cozy yet vibrant charm. Guy Fawkes Night brings people together around roaring bonfires and the festive buzz begins to build. Twinkling lights start to appear on every street and the comforting aroma of mulled wine fills the air. But despite Christmas being on the horizon, November in the capital retains a certain calmness before the big holiday crowds eventually arrive.
Planning a Trip to London in November
Weather in London in November
November in London brings the beginning of the winter season, with temperatures dropping rapidly and the likelihood of rain increasing. It can be a little dreary if you’re not used to the British climate.
- Daytime temperatures average 10-13°c (low to mid 50s°f).
- However, mornings and evenings can drop as low as 4-5°c (40°f).
- 14-17 days of the month may experience some rain or drizzle.
- Daylight savings time ends on Oct 29th, so you can expect shorter days in November.
- The sun rises around 7:20am and sets around 4:10pm.
What to Pack For London in November
November tends to be the wettest month in London. So if you’re traveling during this time, make sure to pack your waterproof jacket and umbrella.
Some other items you’ll want to pack:
- Comfortable water-resistant shoes for walking around the city.
- A nice outfit and shoes for any formal events, dinners, or nights out. Many places in London have a dress code.
- A good day bag is necessary to keep your possessions safe and easily accessible while you are out exploring the city.
Best Things to Do in London in November
Get Your Bake On
The Great British Bake Off is back for ANOTHER season! And I couldn’t be any happier sitting in front of my TV watching this new bunch of talented bakers.
But if simply watching the show isn’t enough for you this winter, how about trying it out for yourself at “The Great London Bake!?”
Enjoy a Classic Sunday Roast
There’s no better way to spend a rainy Sunday in London than cosied up in a traditional British pub enjoying a hearty roast dinner and a glass of red wine.
Check out my full post on where to find the best Sunday roasts in London. There’s no shortage of options!
Spend a Night at the Theatre
No matter when you visit the capital, watching a world-class theatre production in London’s West End is a must!
Grab discounted tickets from sellers such as Theatre Ticket Direct or London Box Office and treat yourself to a night at the theatre.
Get into the Christmas Spirit
It may not be to everyone’s liking, but the moment the clock strikes midnight on November 1st, Halloween is officially over and Christmas festivities start popping up all across London.
From exciting Christmas light switch-on parties to cosy Christmas markets and more, November is a great time to enjoy the capital’s famous festivities before the big December crowds arrive.
Some Xmas events already announced for 2023:
- 2nd Nov – Carnaby St. Light Switch On
- 15th Nov – Kew Gardens Light Switch On
- 17th Nov – Winter Wonderland Opens
- 18th Nov – Chelsea Lights Switch On
Best Events in London in November [2023]
Guy Fawkes Night (5th November)
“Remember, remember the 5th of November.”
If you’re not from the UK, the 5th of November marks “Guy Fawkes Night”, also known as Bonfire Night or Fireworks Night, which commemorates the failure of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
The popular holiday sees people all across the country gather at exciting community events with huge bonfires and spectacular fireworks displays. And London certainly has no shortage of fantastic fireworks night events that anyone can attend.
Check out the best fireworks displays and bonfire night events in London for 2023. Most events take place over the weekend of 3-5th Nov.
EFG Jazz Festival (10-19th Nov)
The EFG Jazz Festival is a lively celebration of jazz music held annually in London.
The huge event features ten days of exciting live performances at venues all across the capital, including the Barbican and Southbank Centre.
This year’s festival includes a fantastic lineup of old and new jazz artists from the UK and further afield. You can catch icons like Emeli Sandé, Norah Jones, and Marcus Miller, as well as many smaller and more alternative jazz artists.
You can book tickets to individual performances or grab a festival friends pass which enables you to choose 10 shows over 10 days!
Lord Mayor’s Show (11th Oct)
The Lord Mayor’s Show is a special event that takes place on the second Saturday of November each year to inaugurate the new Lord Mayor of the City of London.
Dating back to the 16th century, the historic event features an elaborate procession through the City of London with decorated floats, lively music, and plenty of dancing. Expect British pomp and pageantry at its finest!
The procession is then followed by a large fireworks display over the River Thames just after sunset.
All. of the celebrations are completely free to attend. But you may want to arrive early to get a good spot for the procession.
London Comic Con Winter (11-12th Nov)
If you missed MCM Comic Con London at the ExCel last month, this is your second opportunity to celebrate all things geek and pop culture.
Held at the historic Olympia London, London Comic Con Winter brings together a diverse community of pop culture enthusiasts, from comic book readers and sci-fi fans to dedicated cosplayers and more.
You’ll even get the opportunity to meet many of your favorite actors and comic artists, including Kit Harrington, Karen Gillan, and Paul Bettany.
Remembrance Sunday (12th Oct)
Remembrance Sunday is an important day in which people around the UK remember the men and women who gave their lives to the two World Wars and other deadly conflicts.
The annual event takes place on the Sunday nearest to 11th November, aka Remembrance Day.
The national ceremony is held at the Cenotaph on Whitehall in London, with a parade of 10,000 veterans.
You can watch the ceremony for free from the pavements along Whitehall and Parliament Street. But you’ll need to arrive early as the streets open at 8am and close once full.
Check out these other London posts you might find helpful:
When is the best time to visit London?
Where to stay in London – an ultimate area and hotel guide
Important things to know before visiting London for the first time
PIN THIS NOVEMBER LONDON GUIDE FOR LATER:
