Things to Do in London in November
Fireworks, festive lights and the countdown to Christmas
November bridges autumn and the festive season. It opens with Bonfire Night, when firework displays light up the skies across the boroughs in early November, and continues with the centuries-old pageantry of the Lord Mayor's Show through the City. As the month goes on, the Christmas machine cranks into gear: the great West End lights are switched on along Oxford and Regent Street, the department store windows are unveiled, and the first winter markets and ice rinks open their gates. Cold, dark and often wet it may be, but November rewards you with sparkle, spectacle and the anticipatory buzz of Christmas on the way.
Weather
Cold and often wet, with highs around 11°C and the first frosts. A proper coat, scarf and umbrella are essential.
Daylight
Short and getting shorter, with sunset around 4.10pm by the end of the month — peak season for the city's lights to shine.
What's on in November
The annual events and traditions that return to London every November.
Bonfire Night fireworks
Organised displays light up parks and venues across London around 5 November — see our dedicated guide for where to watch.
The Lord Mayor's Show
One of the city's oldest civic traditions, a grand procession through the streets of the City of London.
Christmas lights switch-ons
Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby and Covent Garden unveil their famous displays, and the winter markets and rinks begin to open.
Seasonal ideas for November
Find the best fireworks
From big ticketed displays to free local shows, early November is all about Bonfire Night — plan ahead for the best view.
Start the festive season
The late-November lights switch-ons and first winter markets are a magical, less-crowded way to begin Christmas.
Guides to read this November
Planning your November visit
- Book Bonfire Night displays in advance — the big ones sell out.
- Wrap up warm and waterproof for cold, dark evenings.
- Beat the December rush by visiting the Christmas markets in their quieter opening weeks.