Discover the best things to do in London in November and see how the city transforms with festive lights, cool weather, and fewer crowds. This guide helps you plan the perfect trip with details on events, top places to visit, and the best ways to enjoy London before winter sets in.
Visiting London in November can be surprisingly lovely and affordable. With a wide selection of cheap London tours and vacation packages, it’s easy to plan a trip that blends culture and festive spirit while staying in centrally located hotels and accommodations.
The city feels calm, with cool air, early sunsets, and streets glowing with Christmas lights. Museums, theaters, and pubs stay welcoming, while seasonal markets and events begin to appear. With fewer crowds and lower prices than in summer, London in November has a quiet, magical charm that makes it perfect for exploring before the holiday rush.
Weather in London in November
The weather in London in November is generally cool, cloudy, and a bit damp. Light rain comes and goes, but it’s rarely heavy or long-lasting. The air feels crisp rather than cold, and temperatures stay comfortable for exploring the city. A waterproof jacket, layers, and good shoes are all you really need.
The climate in London in November brings gray skies and shorter days, but it suits the city’s atmosphere. Many of the best things to do in London are indoors anyway, so the weather isn’t much of an issue.
In fact, visiting London in November can be lovely. The city is quieter, the prices are lower, and the early festive mood adds a special charm. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, London feels calm, welcoming, and easy to enjoy at this time of year.
Average Temperature in London in November
The average temperature in London in November ranges between 43 F (6 C) and 54 F (12 C). Afternoons are cool but comfortable, while mornings and evenings feel colder, especially near the River Thames, where the damp air can make it feel chillier.
London sees about 10 days of light rain in November, so showers are common but brief. You’re more likely to get misty drizzle than stormy rain, which makes a small umbrella or a hooded jacket all you really need.
Daylight hours are short this month, with the sun rising around 7:15 and setting by 16:30. The early sunset gives London its distinctive November mood. The streets glow earlier, pubs fill sooner, and the city’s festive lights take over the skyline by late afternoon.
Despite the shorter days, this time of year offers a relaxed pace and a chance to see London in its coziest form. Whether you’re exploring museums or walking along the Southbank under twinkling lights, the weather adds character rather than inconvenience.
What To Wear in London in November
When dressing for London in November, focus on warmth, comfort, and versatility. The weather is cool, damp, and changeable, so layers work better than anything heavy. A waterproof coat or trench is essential, ideally one that’s light enough for indoor spaces but strong enough to handle drizzle or wind.
Pack a few sweaters or pullovers and long-sleeve shirts you can mix and match. Two pairs of jeans or trousers are enough for a week, and darker colors are best for hiding rain spots and looking neat for both day and night outings.
Footwear makes all the difference. Bring waterproof ankle boots for wet streets and a second pair of comfortable shoes for dry days. Add a scarf, gloves, and a hat for cooler evenings, especially if you plan to walk along the river or stay out after sunset.
If you plan to go to the theater or nicer restaurants, include one smart outfit. Londoners dress neatly but casually, favoring simple, well-fitted clothes in neutral tones. You don’t need much, just thoughtful pieces that keep you dry, warm, and comfortable while fitting right in with the city’s understated style.
Crowds and Costs in London in November
November is one of the best-value months to travel to London. It sits between the summer crowds and the busy December holidays, offering lower prices, smaller queues, and a more relaxed pace.
Early November is quiet after the autumn school break. It’s the perfect time to explore places like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the British Museum without the usual crowds. Smaller tour groups and calmer streets also make this a great moment to join cultural tours in London or take day trips beyond the city.
By mid-month, the festive season begins to take over. Once the Christmas lights appear and Winter Wonderland opens in Hyde Park, the atmosphere turns lively but stays manageable.
Areas such as Covent Garden, Southbank, and Oxford Street become busier on weekends, while weekdays remain calm. Theaters and restaurants get fuller, so book ahead for popular shows and dining spots.
Travel costs remain well below peak-season levels. Flights to London are typically 20 to 30 percent cheaper than in summer or December. Even rental cars in London and train tickets are easier to secure at lower rates. Dining prices stay consistent year-round, and with free museums and multi-attraction passes, it’s easy to make your budget go further.
Top Things To Do in London in November
London in November feels alive in a quieter, more local way. The city glows with early Christmas lights, theaters roll out big openings, and the cultural scene stays busy from day to night. Here are the best things to do in London in November, from timeless traditions to limited-time seasonal highlights that make the month worth the trip.
Watch the Fireworks on Bonfire Night
Every November 5, London lights up for Bonfire Night, commemorating the historic Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Major displays take place at Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace, and Victoria Park, often paired with food stalls and music.
This annual spectacle ranks among the most fun things to do in London in November because it captures the energy of local celebration. For the best view, find a hilltop or riverside park near central London and watch the skyline erupt in color, or join a River Thames evening cruise that sails past key viewing points for an unforgettable view of the night.
Watch the Lord Mayor’s Show Parade
The Lord Mayor’s Show returns on November 8, continuing a London tradition more than 800 years old. Expect a parade of floats, marching bands, and ceremonial displays through the City of London, finishing with fireworks over the River Thames.
It’s among the top free things to do in London in November and offers a rare look into the city’s pageantry. Stand near St. Paul’s Cathedral or the Bank of England for the best viewing points.
Visit the Tower of London for Remembrance Day
On November 11, the Tower of London holds a powerful Remembrance Day tribute honoring those who lost their lives in war. The moat fills with thousands of red poppies, creating a striking display of reflection and respect that draws visitors from across the country. The ceremony is observed with moments of silence, making it one of the most meaningful events of the month.
Arrive early for a quieter, more reflective visit, then continue inside with a Tower of London and Crown Jewels exhibition ticket to explore the fortress’s royal past and see the priceless regalia up close.
Attend the EFG London Jazz Festival
Photo from EFG London Jazz Festival.
The EFG London Jazz Festival fills concert halls and small clubs across the city from November 14 to 23. Performances span from the Barbican to Union Chapel, featuring international icons like Dee Dee Bridgewater alongside London’s own rising artists.
Book headline shows in advance or catch spontaneous jam sessions in Soho’s late-night venues for an authentic city experience. And if you want to start the day earlier, take an afternoon historical pub walking tour around London, which finishes in Covent Garden, so you can go straight from a laid-back afternoon to a night of jazz.
Explore the Wes Anderson Exhibition at the Design Museum
The Design Museum in Kensington hosts "Wes Anderson: The Archives" beginning November 21, featuring hundreds of props, costumes, and models from his award-winning films. Every room is meticulously curated to reflect the filmmaker’s unmistakable symmetry and color palette. Exploring this exhibit is one of the best things to do in London in November.
Visit on weekday mornings for a calmer experience and spend extra time at the museum café to unwind afterward, or continue your afternoon nearby with a Kensington Palace Royal High Tea tour, which pairs a guided walk through Kensington Gardens with traditional English tea overlooking the palace.
Visit Tate Britain for the “Turner & Constable” Exhibition
Opening November 27, the new exhibition at Tate Britain presents the works of J.M.W. Turner and John Constable side by side, showcasing how their distinct approaches to light, color, and landscape helped define British art.
It’s a rare opportunity to see their masterpieces displayed together in one of London’s most historic galleries, and tickets to the Turner & Constable exhibition can be booked online in advance to secure your preferred time slot. You can also join the Tate Britain Discovery Tour before or after your visit to gain a deeper understanding of the museum’s wider collection.
Walk Under London’s Christmas Lights
The city’s famous Christmas lights begin switching on in early November, covering Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, and Covent Garden with festive displays. The illumination events include live performances and seasonal markets nearby.
It’s one of the most popular free things to do in London in November, but you can see even more by joining a Christmas lights nighttime bus tour with a live guide. This tour passes the city’s brightest displays from the comfort of an open-top bus while sharing stories about London’s holiday traditions.
See a West End Show
November is prime time for London’s West End, with major productions filling theaters around Covent Garden, Soho, and Leicester Square. Highlights this month include "All My Sons," "Paddington the Musical," and "Stranger Things: The First Shadow." You can also explore the Paddington Bear Experience nearby or book tickets to Stranger Things: The First Shadow for an immersive night of live storytelling.
Catching a performance here ranks among the top things to do in London in November, offering one of the best cultural experiences London has to offer. Same-day tickets are sometimes available, but booking early is the surest way to secure good seats.
Experience Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour
From mid-November, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London transforms into a festive version of the wizarding world. The Great Hall sparkles with Christmas trees, snow dusts the Forbidden Forest, and Diagon Alley glows under winter lights.
It’s one of the fun things to do in London in November that brings the films to life. The studios are in Leavesden, about 40 minutes from Euston by train, and tickets sell out fast. Reserve early to secure your date, or join a guided Harry Potter Studio Tour from King’s Cross that includes round-trip transport and entry straight into the film sets for a seamless experience.
Explore the Christmas Light Trail at Kew Gardens
Starting mid-November, Christmas at Kew Gardens transforms the botanical gardens into a light-filled walking trail about 2 miles (3 kilometers) long, featuring glowing tunnels, illuminated trees, and mirrored reflections across the Palm House Pond. The event combines art, light, and nature for one of the most enchanting seasonal experiences in London.
Allow around two hours to complete the walk and stop by food stalls for hot drinks or winter snacks along the way. Admission tickets to Kew Gardens must be booked in advance since entry slots often sell out. To explore more of the gardens during the day, you can also take a self-guided audio tour of Kew Gardens before returning in the evening for the Christmas lights.
Visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland opens in mid-November, transforming into a huge festive fairground filled with Christmas markets, rides, an ice rink, and live entertainment. From mulled wine to circus performances, it captures London’s holiday spirit at its best.
It’s one of the fun things to do in London in November for families and couples alike. For an even better experience, join a magical Christmas walking tour through central London that ends at Winter Wonderland. This tour lets you enjoy the city’s festive streets before arriving at the park on foot. Tickets are sold separately, so book them in advance if you plan to go inside.
Best Places to Visit in London in November
November offers a quieter, more atmospheric side of London. The weather is crisp but manageable, and the city’s parks and riverside areas still hold their charm before winter fully sets in. With lighter crowds and changing scenery, this is one of the best months to explore London’s landmarks and neighborhoods at an easy pace.
Hyde Park in November
In November, Hyde Park takes on a calm, late-autumn feel. Its tree-lined paths glow with golden leaves, and the Serpentine Lake reflects the softer light of shorter days. It’s ideal for morning walks, cycling, or a coffee break.
While Winter Wonderland begins to take shape mid-month, most of the park remains peaceful, especially on the western side near The Diana Memorial Fountain and Kensington Gardens.
Kew Gardens in November
Kew Gardens in November blends tranquil landscapes with striking seasonal color. Before the evening light trail begins, the daytime gardens are quiet and atmospheric, with glasshouses providing a warm escape from the chill.
The Temperate House and Palm House stay lush year-round, and the Treetop Walkway offers sweeping views of the gardens against a backdrop of bare branches. It’s a peaceful time to explore before the holiday crowds arrive for the Christmas lights.
Southbank in November
The Southbank remains one of London’s most vibrant areas in November, but without the heavy tourist crowds. Riverside paths between Waterloo Bridge and Tower Bridge offer open views of the city skyline, especially beautiful at sunset.
Cafés and bars along the river stay busy with locals, and indoor attractions like the Southbank Centre, Hayward Gallery, and BFI Southbank make it a reliable spot even on cold or rainy days.
Covent Garden in November
By November, Covent Garden combines the best of local life and festive preparation. Its covered market keeps things lively even on cooler days, filled with independent shops and artisanal food stalls.
The Apple Market features handcrafted gifts, while the arcades host small exhibitions and pop-up boutiques. Stop by the London Transport Museum nearby or enjoy street performances that continue year-round.
The Tower of London in November
The Tower of London takes on a strikingly different mood in November. With thinner crowds and mist often rising from the Thames, its medieval towers and stone walls feel more atmospheric than ever.
You can spend more time exploring the White Tower, the Medieval Palace, and the riverside ramparts without the summer congestion, making this one of the best times for an in-depth visit.
Where to Stay in London in November
Choosing where to stay in London in November depends on what kind of experience you want. Some areas offer easy access to landmarks, others are perfect for nightlife or culture, while a few provide a quieter escape close to parks and museums.
Here are some of the best parts of the city to stay in during November.
Westminster
Westminster is one of the most convenient bases for exploring central London. It’s home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament.
Staying here means everything is within walking distance or a short ride away. Hotels such as Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London, Park Plaza County Hall, and Hotel Riu Plaza London Victoria place you close to the action with comfortable rooms and excellent transport links.
Soho
Soho is right in the middle of London’s nightlife and theatre scene. The streets are full of restaurants, bars, and late-night spots, and you can walk easily to Oxford Street or Piccadilly Circus. The Londoner and Page 8 are both stylish options in this area, offering a central location and easy access to London’s best entertainment.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is known for its markets, restaurants, and lively atmosphere. It’s a great area to stay in if you enjoy being surrounded by energy and charm, especially in November when the streets light up for the holidays. The Strand Palace Hotel sits nearby, making it an ideal base for exploring Trafalgar Square, the West End, and nearby theatres.
South Kensington
South Kensington is one of London’s most elegant neighborhoods. It’s a peaceful area filled with classic architecture, leafy streets, and great access to attractions like the Natural History Museum and Hyde Park. Royal Lancaster London, located near the park, provides a quiet and refined place to stay while still being well-connected to the rest of the city.
Greenwich Peninsula
Greenwich Peninsula offers a modern contrast to central London. It sits along the River Thames and is best known for the O2 Arena, where concerts and events take place throughout the year. The InterContinental London – The O2 is the standout choice here, combining luxury with easy access to transport that links directly back to the city center.
Frequently Asked Questions About London in November
Find quick, reliable answers to the most common questions about traveling to London in November, from weather and events to costs and packing tips.
Is November a good time to visit London?
Yes, November is one of the best times to visit London if you want smaller crowds, lower prices, and an early festive atmosphere. The city starts lighting up for Christmas, attractions are easier to enjoy, and travel costs are far lower than in December or summer.
How cold is London in November?
London is cool but not freezing in November. Daytime temperatures usually stay around the low to mid-50s F (10–12 C), while nights drop to the low 40s F (5–7 C). A warm coat, layers, and waterproof shoes will keep you comfortable in changing weather.
Does it snow in London in November?
Snow is very rare in November. You’re more likely to experience light rain or drizzle. If it does snow, it’s usually brief and melts quickly, so it won’t affect your travel plans.
What are the daylight hours in November?
Daylight is shorter, with sunrise around 7:15 and sunset near 16:30. Evenings come early, but that makes it perfect for seeing London’s Christmas lights, theatre shows, and indoor attractions.
What are the best places to visit in London in November?
Top places include Hyde Park, Kew Gardens, Southbank, Covent Garden, and the Tower of London. Each offers seasonal experiences like light displays, markets, and indoor attractions suited for cooler weather.
What events happen in London in November?
Key events include Bonfire Night, The Lord Mayor’s Show, Remembrance Day, and the EFG London Jazz Festival. From mid-month, Christmas at Kew and Winter Wonderland open, adding to the city’s holiday excitement.
Are flights and hotels cheaper in November?
Yes, November is part of London’s shoulder season, meaning flights and hotels are often 20–30% cheaper than in summer or December. The first two weeks of November typically offer the best rates.
What to pack for London in November?
Pack layers such as sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and a waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for wet streets, and a scarf or gloves will help on chilly mornings or evenings. Include one smart outfit if you plan to go to the theatre or dine out.
Why London in November Is Worth Visiting
Visiting London in November is a great choice for travelers who want to experience the city’s early festive season without the December crowds. The weather is cool but comfortable, and the atmosphere is lively with Christmas lights, theater shows, and seasonal markets starting to appear.
Hotels and flights are more affordable, major attractions are easier to explore, and the city feels relaxed yet full of life. Even under cloudy skies, London has a warmth that comes from its cafés, culture, and holiday spirit.
If you’re still planning your trip, learn more about the best time to visit London based on your travel goals. You can also check out London in December to see how the celebrations build up through the holidays. For more ideas, read about the top things to do in London or explore our top itineraries to make the most of your visit.
