The British winter is well known for being long, dark and cold, but that’s no reason to hide inside. This month the city comes alive, illuminated with thousands upon thousands of dazzling Christmas lights. The festive cheer in the air and the huge array of world renowned shops such as Harrods make London a great place to spend the festive season.
There are plenty of things to do in November in London. We’ve put together a list of events to keep you occupied during your stay with us!
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ICE RINK – until 7 January
Skate in a magical winter haven in the heart of the city at the Natural History Museum’s open-air ice rink. The spectacular rink is surrounded by thousands of fairy lights and features a glittering 30ft (9m) Christmas tree. Book your skate session online to guarantee your place or buy your tickets from the box office when you arrive. Remember, you may have to wait for your turn on the ice if you haven’t booked your session in advance, especially during peak times. Visit the museum’s Cafe’ Bar for winter warmers, and watch the skaters glide on the ice from the cafe’s balcony. Non-skaters are welcome. Visit the official website for more information.
BONFIRE NIGHT FIREWORK DISPLAYS IN LONDON – from 3 to 5 November
Remember, remember the fifth of November…..each year London marks the historic moment when Guy Fawkes and his motley crew attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and Kind James I in the Gunpowder Plot of 5 November 1605. The day became known as Guy Fawkes Day or more commonly Bonfire Night. The main firework action takes places on Sunday 5th November, but events will run before and afterwards. You can enjoy traditional Bonfire Night food and drink, alongside music, funfairs and family activities. Visit the following website to find the list of the best local firework displays in London on Bonfire Night.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN LONDON – from 7 November to 5 January 2018
Nothing signifies the approach of Christmas more than the glow of seasonal street lights. From the shimmering lights on Oxford Street to the beautiful decorations illuminating Covent Garden, don’t miss the world-famous London Christmas lights as the city is gloriously decked out for Christmas. Here’s our list to when London’s festive lights are switched on in some of the capital’s biggest shopping destinations.
- Oxford Street (7th November)
- Carnaby Street (9th November)
- Covent Garden (14th November)
- Marylebone (15th November)
- Regent Street (16th November)
EFG LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL 2017 – from 10 to 19 November
The Festival returns to the city in November, for ten days jam-packed with heavyweight musical talent from across the globe, bringing a wealth of international legends to London’s concert halls – with new music, emerging British stars and outstanding collaborations all added into the mix. The festival takes place across a series of impressive venues including the Barbican, Royal Festival Hall, Kings Place and more.
Visit the EFG London Jazz Festival official website to find all the locations of the event, who is playing this year and to book your tickets.
WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK -from 17 November to 1 January 2018
Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2017 include the Magical Ice Kingdom Deep Sea Adventure brimming with ice and snow sculptures, an alpine-style village with karaoke huts for festive sing-a-longs and Cinderella on Ice. Visit the official website and book your favourite attractions.
