32 brilliant things to do in November in London 2025

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.  

Beyond the festivities, London is buzzing with exciting events. The Design Museum has launched a major new exhibition celebrating the boundary-breaking career of American filmmaker Wes Anderson, while a new restaurant at the birthplace of Queen Elizabeth II in Mayfair is turning heads for its Mediterranean plates. 

In the West End, a thrilling lineup of shows include a star-studded cast reimagining Arthur Miller’s All My Sons, and the stage adaptation of the cherished 2003 Will Ferrell film ELF The Musical. 

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.  

The best things to do in London in November 2025 

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 2025 edition (14 to 23 November). The festival kicks off with a dazzling opening gala at Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, where an ensemble of acclaimed soloists will be led by British conductor Guy Barker. Legendary vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater will grace the Barbican stage (15 November), while renowned drummer Nate Smith performs at Koko in Camden (16 November). The UK’s premier jazz development initiative, Take Five, marks its 20th anniversary, championing five stars and alumni including Nubya Garcia and Tom Skinner.

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, Victoria 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. 

3. Watch the new production of Arthur Miller's All My Sons at Wyndham's Theatre

Visionary Belgian-born theatre director Ivo van Hove returns to London’s West End this month with a bold new production of All My Sons at Wyndham’s Theatre (14 November 2025 to 7 March 2026). Book your seats for this limited 12-week show and see a star-studded cast put a fresh spin on the gripping tale. Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) leads the cast in the role of Joe Keller, a respected businessman whose life is thrown into turmoil when his business partner is charged with supplying faulty aircraft parts to the military, causing the deaths of 21 pilots. BAFTA-nominated actress Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Secrets & Secrets, Hard Truths) takes the role of Kate Keller, while Paapa Essiedu (Death of England: Delroy, I May Destroy You) shines as the Kellers’ son Chris.

4. Honour Remembrance Day with the Tower of London's display of poppies

To mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) and the end of the Second World War, the Tower of London unveiled a spectacular poppy installation earlier this year. Originally designed by artist Paul Cummins and designer Tom Piper in 2014 to mark the centenary of the First World War, the installation features the original 30,000 ceramic poppies, which are on loan from the Imperial War Museum. Don’t miss the chance to see the striking Sea of Red installation before it closes on Remembrance Day (11 November). Read our guide to learn how to see the poppies and discover other key Armistice Day events in London. 

5. 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 (14 November to 4 January 2026). 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. There are also new pieces including a breathtaking Christmas Orchestra blending music and lights, and a striking floral installation by Netherlands-based artist Wilhelmusvlug. Other highlights include the first-ever lighting of the Great Pagoda and 100 illuminated lilies on the Palm House Pond.

6. Dine at Mayfair's new seafood restaurant Lilibet's

A new restaurant recently opened on Mayfair’s Bruton Street in the exact townhouse where Britain’s longest-reigning monarch Queen Elizabeth II was born. Lilibet’s – thoughtfully named after the late Queen’s family nickname – comes from restaurateur Ross Shonhan (previously Nobu, Zuma), serving up Mediterranean-inspired plates in a seriously chic setting. Interiors have a fittingly regal finish, with bold textures softened by pastel colours such as marble countertops, pink bar stools and plenty of pleated lampshades. Expect seafood platters, an oyster bar and a fireside grill cooking up snappers, swordfish and salmon, as well a martini cocktail bar and a cosy outdoor terrace.

7. Dive into Wes Anderson: The Archives at the Design Museum 

The Design Museum is staging the first-ever retrospective of American filmmaker Wes Anderson, showcasing more than 600 items including models, props and costumes from his Oscar-winning films. Visitors will see the pink model used as the exterior of The Grand Budapest Hotel in the hit 2014 film, the Fendi fur coat worn by Gwyneth Paltrow as Margot Tenenbaum in The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), and a screening of Anderson’s short film Bottle Rocket (1993). Browse notebooks with inspirations behind Anderson’s biggest projects and uncover his creative process through scripts, sketches and puppets. The exhibition is organised chronologically, concluding with his most recent acclaimed short film The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023). 21 November 2025 to 26 July 2026

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

Unlock access to over 100 attractions in the capital 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!

9. Dance into November at Pitchfork Music Festival London

Aussie psychedelic rock group King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard are set to kick off the 2025 London edition of Pitchfork Music Festival (4 to 8 November) at the Royal Albert Hall, alongside a mix of other performances at Brick Lane’s 93 Feet East on 4 November. Throughout the weekend, various other performances will take place across the capital at Village Underground in Shoreditch, Union Chapel in Islington and Here at Outernet in King’s Cross. Browse the full lineup and secure tickets for performances by Ratboys, Ali Sethi, Two Shell, and Clutter.

10. 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.

11. Get ready for the final season of Stranger Things with Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Later this month, part one of the final season of Stranger Things hits screens (26 November), and we can think of no better way to get excited for the new series than by securing tickets for Stranger Things: The First Shadow at the Phoenix Theatre. The stage adaptation of the hit Netflix show traces the prequel of the sci-fi thriller, transporting audiences back to 1959, where young Him Hopper, Bob Newby and Joyce Maldonado search for a new beginning in the small town of Hawkins. Book your tickets and be mesmerised by innovative stagecraft, showstopping performances and a pulsating synth soundtrack in this two-time Olivier Award-winning production.

12. 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.

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

Battersea Power Station’s riverside ice rink Glide reopens this month (7 November 2025 to 4 January 2026), with 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 (12 November 2025 to 11 January 2026). 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.

14. 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 ticket options for the 90-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.

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

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 (5 November). 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.

16. Reserve your tickets for The Spy Who Came In From The Cold 

British author John le Carré’s celebrated novel The Spy Who Came In From The Cold is set to make its theatre debut in the West End this month in a limited 14-week run at Soho Place theatre. The gripping stage adaptation is set against the Cold War in Berlin, where British intelligence officer Alec Leamas is recalled for one final mission. Book your seats for the eagerly anticipated show and see Rory Keenan (Somewhere Boy, The Regime), portray Lemas in this complex story with themes of paranoia, power struggles and psychological tension that will keep you on the edge of your seat. 17 November 2025 to 21 February 2026

17. Book the Snow Globe Climb at The O2

London’s favourite roofwalk attraction is bringing back its Snow Globe Climb experience 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 (21 November 2025 to 4 January 2026), 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.

18. Check out Gilbert & George: 21st Century Pictures at Hayward Gallery

Southbank Centre’s Hayward Gallery is hosting a new blockbuster exhibition that traces British contemporary artists Gilbert & George. Featuring a collection of pictures created since the turn of the millennium, the exhibition explores themes of societal norms and taboos including sex, religion, corruption and death. Visitors can view key pieces such as New Horny Pictures (2001) and The London Pictures (2011), along with more than 50 other floor-to-ceiling installations. Until 11 January 2026 

19. Secure your seats for A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic

Follow the story of Ebenezer Scrooge in Jack Thorne’s thrilling new adaptation of the Dickens classic at The Old Vic and see the incredibly talented Paul Hilton (The Inheritance, Slow Horses) bring the miserable old man’s life to stage as he is visited by four ghosts on Christmas Eve. Watch him embark on a transformative journey through his past, present and future in this heartwarming, festive classic. While the best seats at the Old Vic are typically in the centre of the Stalls, seats can also be booked for this production on the stage itself for a truly memorable perspective of the performance.

20. Follow an outdoor penguin sculpture trail through the capital  

The Fleet Street Quarter is hosting a free penguin parade sculpture trail to support WWF (World Wildlife Fund) – a global environmental charity dedicated to conserving nature and protecting wildlife. Kicking off on 14 November, visitors can explore 12 penguin sculptures, each individually designed by talented local artists and positioned across various locations in the neighbourhood such as Chancery Lane, New Street Square and Fleet Street. The eight-week trail sees each statue mounted on an eco-friendly plinth with a QR code that reveals fun facts about the creatures.

21. Feast at Somerset House's new dining spot Aram

Somerset House has had a stellar 25th birthday year, with a new riverside bar and an unforgettable Summer Series among its standout celebrations. The latest addition is Aram, a café, deli and restaurant from Imad Alarnab – founder of Imad’s Syrian Kitchen in Soho. Overlooking the river terrace, the all-day dining space offers a modern, minimal design and East Mediterranean dishes such as Zaatar croissants, Halva brownies and Syrian mint tea. The deli stocks everything from chili jam, roasted hazelnuts and Aram ground coffee. On the menu, you might find roasted aubergine salad with chickpeas, confit red pepper and tahini dressing, or Labneh poached eggs on grilled sourdough. Stay tuned for the opening of the event space Salamilk, where cooking classes and supper clubs are set to take place.

22. 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.

23. Watch the new production of Shakespeare's Othello at Theatre Royal Haymarket 

An explosive reimagining of Shakespeare’s epic tale Othello (until 17 January 2026) has just launched at Theatre Royal Haymarket. Directed by Tony Award-winner Tom Morris with music by PJ Harvey, this modern revival stars David Harewood (Homeland), Toby Jones (Mr Bates vs The Post Office) and Caitlin Fitzgerald (Succession). Buy your tickets and witness a gripping tale of love, jealousy and betrayal as Othello’s secret marriage to Desdemona triggers a tragic downfall, masterminded by the vengeful lago.

24. 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. Next, 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 get the lowdown on the full itinerary.

25. 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.

26. Uncover unseen Picasso pieces at Tate Modern

Tate Modern’s latest exhibition presents Spanish artist Pablo Picasso’s work through a new lens, highlighting his fascination with performers and marking the centenary of his famous painting The Three Dancers (1925). Contemporary artist Wu Tsang and author-curator Enrique Fuenteblanca have transformed the exhibition space into a theatre, featuring 45 pieces from the Tate’s collection and European loans including paintings, sculptures, and textiles – some of which have never been seen in the UK before. Don’t miss the opening of the Turner and Constable exhibition at the end of the month, celebrating the work of two pivotal British artists in the 250th year of their births.    

27. Step into Christmas at Winter Wonderland 

The hottest event on London’s festive calendar returns to Hyde Park this month (14 November 2025 to 1 January 2026), 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.

28. Don't miss the joy-filled ELF The Musical this Christmas 

Enjoy the ultimate festive family theatre experience this Christmas as ELF The Musical returns to London’s West End at the Aldwych Theatre. Follow the heartwarming story of Buddy, a loveable elf raised in the North Pole who sets off on a hilarious adventure to New York to find his true family. Book your tickets and get into the holiday spirit with festive tunes like “A Christmas Song”, dazzling set designs and a cast of larger-than-life characters.

29. 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.

Tate Britain has launched a major exhibition charting the trailblazing surrealist photographer Lee Miller (until 15 February 2026), presenting more than 250 vintage and modern prints – some of which have never been displayed before. Visitors can trace Miller’s incredible career, spanning French surrealism and renowned war photography. Thought-provoking pieces include an image of American photographer David Sherman beneath an umbrella wearing a gas mask and holding a film camera in London (1942), and fashion model Elizabeth Cowell, photographed wearing a Digby Morton suit against a blitz-torn street in London (1941). Elsewhere, the exhibition showcases artistic collaborations and lesser-seen images of the Egyptian landscape from the 1930s.

31. Experience Cecil Beaton's Fashionable World a the National Portrait Gallery

This winter, the National Portrait Gallery is showcasing Beaton’s era-defining contributions to the worlds of fashion and photography, with more than 200 items on display including photographs, sketches and costumes (until 11 January 2026). Visitors can explore pieces from the Jazz Age and the Bright Young Things, as well as portraits of leading figures like Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, Marlon Brando and royals such as Princess Margaret and Queen Elizabeth II. Plus, the exhibition features pieces from his Oscar-winning costume design for My Fair Lady (1964).     

32. 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.

You may also like 

• Book your seats for the National Theatre’s acclaimed production of The Importance of Being Earnest at the Noël Coward Theatre this winter (until 10 January 2026).
• See London from new heights at The View from The Shard and enjoy sweeping views of the city’s top landmarks. 
• Get excited for the release of Wicked: For Good (21 November) and 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.