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!
REGENT STREET MOTOR SHOW – 3 November 2018
Get up close to classic and futuristic vehicles at the Regent Street Motor Show. A showcase of 125 years of motoring including veteran, vintage, classic, and modern-day cars. Plus, enjoy music, dance performances and motorcycle stunt shows all along the traffic-free street. This interactive celebration of motoring is perfect for car enthusiasts and families, as well as West End shoppers looking for a fun distraction. 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 this website to find the list of the best local firework displays in London on Bonfire Night.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN LONDON – from 6 November to 5 January 2019
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 (6th November)
- Carnaby Street (8th November)
- Covent Garden (13th November)
- Marylebone (14th November)
- Regent Street (15th November)
CHRISTMAS IN LEICESTER SQUARE – from 9 Nov. to 6 January 2019
See one of London’s most famous squares transformed for the festive during Christmas in Leicester Square. Browse more than 25 stalls for handcrafted gifts, festive decorations and more at the traditional Christmas market, plus treat yourself to some warming winter fare. Families with young children can also enjoy exploring Santa’s grotto and meet the man himself in the square’s enchanting festive atmosphere. Visit the official website for further information.
EFG LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL 2018 – from 16 to 25 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 1st January 2019
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 2018 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.