22 brilliant things to do in November in London 2026

November marks the official start of the festive season in London, bringing with it pop-up winter markets, sparkling light displays and magical seasonal experiences across the city. Standout happenings include the dazzling Christmas light trail at Kew Gardens, the return of Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, and the spectacular Christmas lights open-top bus tour.   

In the West End, Disney's The Lion King enchants audiences with its era-defining score and breathtaking puppetry, while Andrew Lloyd Webber's award-winning musical The Phantom of the Opera delights with its gothic romance.

Check out our pick of the hottest things to do in London in November and be sure to explore our guide to what’s on in London this weekend. Download the Visit London app for exclusive offers and on-the-go ideas.  

We update this page regularly, so check back soon for official festival lineups, blockbuster exhibitions, unmissable theatre and exciting new openings. 

The best things to do in London in November 2026 

1. Groove to soulful sounds at EFG London Jazz Festival

Spanning the capital’s most prestigious cultural venues, the EFG London Jazz Festival celebrates the diversity of the genre, bringing together an extraordinary lineup for its 2026 edition (13 to 22 November). While the official bill is yet to be announced, last year's highlights included an ensemble of acclaimed soloists performing under the baton of British conductor Guy Barker at Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall, and legendary vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater lighting up the Barbican. Expect new sounds from the UK’s premier jazz development initiative, Take Five, which champions a mix of rising artists and alumni. 

Check back soon for the official 2026 lineup of the EFG London Jazz Festival. 

2. Hop aboard a magical Christmas lights open-top bus tour

Soak in London’s top sights on this festive open-top bus tour and see dazzling displays while learning the history of the capital’s storied streets from an onboard guide. The 90-minute tour departs from various locations in London including the London Eye and Green Park, before cruising past iconic festive installations such as Regent Street’s famous angels and Trafalgar Square’s glittering Christmas tree. Book your seat for the Christmas lights open-top bus tour and choose between lower-deck or upper deck seats – we recommend the upper seats (weather permitting) for the best views. 

Read our review of the Christmas lights bus tour. 

3. Get into the festive spirit at Christmas at Kew

Book your tickets for this festive light trail at the Unesco-protected Kew Gardens and marvel at dazzling illuminations as the green space is transformed into a winter wonderland (dates TBC). The 3km trail presents striking displays from a mix of international artists, as well as delicious street food and spiced winter warmers along the route. The two-hour experience showcases classic favourites such as Temperate House’s eye-popping illuminations and the famous light tunnel. New pieces include a breathtaking Christmas Orchestra blending music and lights, and the lighting of the Great Pagoda.

Get the lowdown on Christmas at Kew with our review.  

4. Pick up a London Pass to save on top attractions

Unlock access to more than 100 attractions in London with this convenient digital pass. Whether you’re here for a short stay or an extended visit, choose a pass duration that fits your plans and budget. Simply download the pass to your smartphone and enjoy hassle-free entry to top landmarks such as Shakespeare’s Globe, Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle. Plus, secure exclusive offers and discounts on dining and shopping. Buy your London Pass today and start exploring!

5. Dance into November at Pitchfork Music Festival London

Pitchfork Music Festival returns to London (4 to 8 November), bringing a bold mix of cutting-edge sounds to some of the city's landmark venues. Expect performances at the Royal Albert Hall, Brick Lane's 93 Feet East, Village Underground in Shoreditch, Union Chapel in Islington and Here at Outernet in King's Cross. The five-day festival will showcase an eclectic programme featuring genre-bending artists and global trailblazers. 

Check back soon for the full 2026 lineup and to secure your tickets.

6. Take a festive tour of Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio 

Harry Potter fans can buy tickets to visit the studios where the film franchise was produced and see original sets transformed for Christmas. Step inside the Great Hall, where tables are lined with a festive feast, or wander into the Forbidden Forest to find trees sparkling with frost and snow. Discover how special effects were used to create unforgettable scenes such as the Chamber of Secrets door, the invisibility cloak and the thrilling Quidditch tournaments. Don’t miss the studio shop to pick up replica wands, house-branded robes and your very own Hedwig. 

7. Explore mind-bending installations at the Twist Museum 

Immerse yourself in the ultimate multisensory experience at the Twist Museum on Oxford Street, where more than 60 eye-popping exhibits and interactive illusions challenge your perception of colour, shape and sound. Test your senses in The Slanted Room, where tilted floors and walls defy your sense of gravity, and explore The Kaleidoscope Room to find shifting colours and patterns. Round off your visit with a trip to nearby Carnaby’s boutiques or head into Soho for a tasty meal.

8. Sing your heart out at ABBA Voyage 

See the celebrated Swedish pop group reunited on stage for the first time in 40 years, thanks to cutting-edge digital effects that deliver a groundbreaking concert at the custom-built ABBA Arena in Stratford. Dance to fan favourites like “Money, Money, Money”, “Take a Chance on Me” and “Super Trouper”, as well as new releases including “I Still Have Faith in You” and “Don’t Shut Me Down”. You can choose between various ABBA Voyage ticket options for the 100-minute show including seats in the auditorium and standing tickets – but we’d recommend opting for the latter to be in the heart of the action and enjoy sweeping views of the stage.

9. Skate into Christmas in London at the city's top ice rinks

Battersea Power Station’s riverside ice rink Glide reopens in early November (dates TBC), with three interconnected rinks and a spectacular 30-foot spruce tree as the centrepiece. Meanwhile, London’s leading cultural hub Somerset House transforms its neoclassical courtyard into a winter wonderland with the return of its rink Skate (dates TBC), which offers late-night sessions. Ice Rink Canary Wharf, Hye Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink and Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink also return for the festive season. Bookmark our guide to London’s best ice rinks for more inspiration.

10. Adventure to Paris on an exclusive day trip 

Board the Eurostar at London’s St Pancras and embark on an unforgettable day trip to Paris. This whirlwind tour takes you past landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées on a panoramic bus tour, before whisking you up the 674 steps of the Eiffel Tower for showstopping views across the French capital. Plus, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the historic Notre Dame cathedral, before marvelling at the masterpieces of the Louvre including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. The tour departs from London at 5.45am and returns at 9.30pm – book your tickets now and explore the full itinerary.

11. See London's skyline light up with fireworks for Bonfire Night 

Remember, remember 5 November! Bonfire Night – also known as Guy Fawkes Night – sees London’s skies light up with striking displays of colourful fireworks, often accompanied by roaring bonfires, street food and sparklers. In London, there are various spots to enjoy a display including Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival, Wimbledon Park fireworks and Battersea Park fireworks. You can explore the history behind the celebration and find top tips for London fireworks events in our guide to Bonfire Night in London. 

12. Secure your seats on a Thames dinner cruise

Experience London from a new perspective on a glittering evening cruise along the River Thames. The three-hour tour departs from Westminster Pier at 7.45pm, before passing top landmarks such as the London Eye, St Paul's Cathedral and Tower Bridge. Savour a four-course dinner accompanied by live music as the city’s skyline drifts by, then sail on past Canary Wharf and the Thames Barrier. End the night on the open-air deck with a glass of bubbly before hitting the dancefloor. 

13. Book the Snow Globe Climb at The O2

London’s favourite roofwalk attraction is bringing back its Snow Globe Climb experience at Up at The O2 after a successful debut year in 2024. The exhilarating 90-minute climb invites thrill seekers to scale the roof of the world-famous entertainment venue. However, over the festive season (dates TBC), the UK’s highest snow globe awaits at the summit. Inside the globe, climbers can enjoy gingerbread cookies, glasses of bubbly, mulled wine and hot chocolate before making their way back to base camp. Read our Up at The O2 review for the lowdown on the experience.  

14. Experience The Great Christmas Feast at The Lost Estate 

Embrace the holiday spirit at west London’s The Lost Estate, where the magic of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is brought to life through a delicious three-course feast and immersive storytelling. Book your seats and indulge in a Victorian-inspired meal – think ham hock terrine, Devon tart with trimmings and Twelfth Night cake with pouring cream – as a dazzling cast conjures the ghostly tale through powerful narration, live music and atmospheric visuals. As for the setting, expect candlelit tables, a festive hum in the air, and a smattering of snowfall. 

15. Shop for gifts at London's winter markets 

Pick up perfect gifts and enjoy a delicious mix of street food at various Christmas markets in London. The Southbank Centre Winter Market offers brilliant stocking stuffers like jewellery, homeware and clothing alongside tasty food and drink – think cinnamon-dusted churros and indulgent hot chocolates. Nearby, the Leicester Square Christmas Market and Trafalgar Square Christmas Market showcase handcrafted gifts and delicious treats in chalet-style cabins, while Covent Garden is a must-visit with its glittering decorations, soaring tree and occasional carol performances. You can also find local markets at Battersea Power Station, Hampton Court Palace and Wimbledon with our roundup of the  best markets in London. 

16. See more of the UK on a Windsor Castle, Bath and Stonehenge tour 

Explore more landmarks in the UK on this full-day luxury coach tour from London, taking in Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and the historic city of Bath. Visit the royal residence of Windsor Castle and look inside St George’s Chapel, the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II. Uncover the mysteries of ancient Stonehenge, before heading to Bath to admire its honey-hued Georgian architecture and visit the Roman Baths. While the tour includes return travel and an expert guide, please note that entry tickets to the main attractions can be added or excluded when booking. Book your day trip tickets now.

17. Step into Christmas at Winter Wonderland 

The hottest event on London’s festive calendar returns to Hyde Park this month (dates TBC), with thrilling rides, live shows, a traditional Christmas market and the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink promising a fun festive day out in the city. Make it a date night and glide beneath twinkling lights or catch up with friends in the Magical Ice Kingdom before enjoying warm food and craft ales in the Bavarian Village. Little ones will love Santaland, the Giant Observation Wheel and the traditional fairground. Be sure to book your tickets in advance and make sure to wrap up warm as most attractions at Winter Wonderland are outdoors. 

18. Bag your tickets for Sarnie Party at Somerset House

Somerset House’s riverside bar Setlist is the backdrop for Sarnie Party’s Christmas special in London this month (date TBC). 15 of the city’s hottest sandwich masters – including Borough’s The Black Pig and Bethnal Green’s Focaccia Mia – will be serving their most outrageous, never-seen-before festive creations. If last year’s event is anything to go by, expect everything from classic cranberry sauce-smothered sourdough stuffed with turkey and all the trimmings to inventive twists such as a Boxing Day Curry with roast turkey, curry mayo and onion bhaji. Enjoy feel-good sets from live DJs, alongside craft beers and cocktails to wash it all down.

19. Attend Christmas lights switch-ons across the city

London is set to sparkle with colour this month as glorious festive decorations and light displays illuminate the city. Oxford Street kicks things off (date TBC), when more than 5,000 LED stars will light up the renowned shopping street from 4pm. Regent Street closely follows (date TBC), as its iconic Spirit of Christmas brightens the central stretch and nearby areas including Piccadilly and St James’s. Meanwhile, Old Spitalfields Market launches its festive season (date TBC) with mulled wine, mince pies and seasonal shopping alongside Christmas craft activities. Covent Garden joins the celebrations on the same day (date TBC), with more than 300,000 lights decorating the Piazza, Seven Dials and Neal’s Yard – plus its signature golden bells will crown the market’s roof, while a towering British-grown spruce tree will take pride of place in the square. 

20. Unearth eye-popping installations at Paradox Museum

Make tracks to the Paradox Museum in Knightsbridge to explore 25 themed rooms filled with dazzling illusions. The museum houses more than 50 unique installations spread across various spaces, including a Camouflage Room where guests seemingly disappear into the walls, and a Reversed Room with gravity-defying illusions that turn reality on its head. Don’t miss the Zero Gravity Room, a padded anti-gravity space that defies the laws of physics, letting visitors lie upside down on walls and feel the thrill of space exploration. 

21. Plan ahead for New Year's Eve in London

Raise a glass to the New Year in London by watching the world-famous fireworks from a party boat or scenic river cruise. The London Rose New Year’s Eve Cruise Party includes unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks, while a DJ spins feel-good party anthems and an open-top deck provides sweeping views of the fireworks. Prefer a more relaxed vibe? The New Year’s Eve Thames Dinner Cruise offers a delicious three-course meal and live entertainment, along with breathtaking views of the fireworks. Book your tickets and choose a cruise that suits you with our pick of the best New Year’s Eve river cruises and tours in London. 

22. Party at K-Music Festival 2026

The 13th edition of K-Music Festival kicked off in the capital last month (dates TBC) with a thrilling lineup celebrating Korea’s diverse music scene at various cultural venues across London. A standout event at last year's festival saw a powerful performance by multi-instrumentalist Won II – who inaugurated the first K-Music Festival in 2013 – at Southbank Centre’s Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Check back soon for the official 2026 lineup,

You may also like 

• See London from new heights at The View from The Shard and enjoy sweeping views of the city’s top landmarks. 
• Experience the magic of Oz in the West End with Wicked the Musical at the Apollo Victoria. 
• Explore the best of the capital with the Total London Experience, a whistle-stop day tour that ticks off the city’s biggest attractions.
• Treat the kids to a family adventure in London with The Paddington Bear Experience, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and Shrek’s Adventure!

For more things to do in November in London, take a look at our events calendar and guide to what’s on in London. Find fun things to do in London this weekend and discover exclusive offers on the Visit London app.

Tips for your trip to London in November

What is the weather like in November? 

Average temperatures in London in November sit between 8 and 12C (46 to 54F), with shorter days and a noticeable chill in the air. Rain is common, so it’s worth keeping an umbrella to hand. The sun rises around 7.15am at the start of the month, with sunset as early as 4.15pm by the end. For more seasonal temperatures and rainfall, check out our London weather page. 

Is November a good time to visit London? 

November is a great time to visit London. The city sparkles with Christmas lights, festive markets and exciting seasonal events, and crowds are typically fewer than in peak tourist season in the summer. It’s the perfect month to enjoy the best of London’s theatre, pubs and indoor attractions. 

What to wear in London in November?

Layer up with a warm coat, scarf and waterproof shoes. Warm jumpers will keep you comfortable indoors and out, but it’s always worth keeping an umbrella or rain jacket in case the weather takes a turn.