Embarking on a journey to London in November? You're in for a treat! This guide uncovers why the city buzzes with a unique allure in November.
You need to explore London in November to learn more about these legends when the UK's landmark music events are set against the dramatic backdrop of ominous black clouds.
Prepare yourself to learn:
- How's the weather? Is it cold?
- What's the average temperature?
- Will the city be crowded, or will you get to relish the off-season charm?
- Which season November falls under in London.
- Recommendations on the best places to stay during your visit in November.
Get ready to explore the beauty of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, the lively streets of Regent Street and Oxford Street, the vibrant Covent Garden, and the majestic Buckingham Palace with this comprehensive guide. Enjoy your trip to the fullest by knowing exactly what to expect in London in November!
So, What's Special About London in November?
November is a festive season in London. If you visit London in November, you won't be at a loss for exciting things to do such as the famous ice skating, since the city hosts several festive feasts and major events.
Guy Fawkes bonfire night, Remembrance Day, the EFG London Jazz Festival, and Winter Wonderland shows are just a few of the events that take place in London in November.
Even when it's nice, the typical climate in Britain is notoriously unpredictable. However, London's typical November weather is gloomy and rainy.
You'll need raincoats and umbrellas, but the comfort of a warm pumpkin pie and mulled wine from street food vendors can transport you to a place of romance even amid a downpour.
The Christmas season always comes with festive cheer in late November. Thus, November is the best time to visit Christmas markets in London.
You will easily find a Christmas market to purchase beautiful and cheap Christmas lights in late November.
You can also take a walk on regent street to get a cup of afternoon tea with traditional Thanksgiving dishes of local food from street food vendors.
London in November: Weather Condition
If you prefer cold weather and want to avoid extremely sunny days, you should visit London in November.
Temperatures in London average around 12 degrees Celsius in mid-November, rising to an average high temperature of 13 degrees Celsius during the day and falling to a low of 2 degrees Celsius at night.
Rainfall in mid-November averages 63 millimeters, while daily sunlight totals are a mere 3 hours.
"The weather in November can be OK - chill, but not too damp (on the other hand, it can be wet)", said GreenwichNick, TripAdvisor.com.
London in November: Places to Visit?
1. Westminster Abbey
Listen to an audio guide as you stroll the hallowed halls of Westminster Abbey, which have been frequented by monarchs, politicians, and commoners alike for a thousand years.
More than 3,300 notable Britons are buried at the St Paul's Cathedral, which has also hosted 16 royal weddings.
2. Windsor Castle
See the Queen's weekend residence, Windsor Castle. Forty-nine monarchs have called it home since William the Conqueror commissioned its construction in the 11th century.
To this day, it remains the world's largest and oldest continuously inhabited castle. From central London, a day trip will take you to Stonehenge, Oxford, and Windsor Castle.
3. London's iconic and imposing Tower
The Tower of modern-day London has seen many fascinating changes since it was first constructed in 1078. The City of London and the River Thames are seen from here.
You may find out more about the castle's history as a dungeon, an armory, a treasury, and an animal park by taking the tour that focuses on the Royal Jewels and the tower bridge.
4. The Globe Theatre of Shakespeare
Shakespeare may have written a play about the rebirth of the Globe Theatre after it was destroyed by fire and gained a negative reputation.
Nowadays, the Globe Theatre offers tours for a massive audience interested in the cinematic spectacle, theatre shows, a heady mix of live music, and Shakespeare history.
5. West End Theater
Visit the West End Theater of London in early November to enjoy art exhibitions, special events, and fantastic shows by world-class artists while you're there.
See a revival of a classic like The Lion King or The Phantom of the Opera.
6. Tate Britain
This iconic building, which is the historic National Gallery of British Art on Millbank in London's City of Westminster, was known as the Tate Gallery from 1932 until 2000.
Like Tate Modern, Tate Liverpool, and Tate St. Ives, it is a part of the Tate gallery system in England.
It spans more than a century of artistic production, from early 20th-century modernism to cutting-edge pieces made right now.
Artists from all over the world, such as Pablo Picasso, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, and Jenny Holzer, have contributed to this category, which also includes their sculptures, contemporary prints, and collectible print works.
7. River Thames Tour
You can take the River Thames Tour to go along the Southbank centre of the Thames River and see some of London's most well-known landmarks from the water.
Regent's Park, Warner Bros, Marylebone Church, Primrose Hill, the Houses of Parliament, Heathrow Airport, the London Eye, and many other famous London landmarks are all easily accessible from a river trip along the South bank.
Although most cruises depart in the mornings and afternoons during November, vessels that depart later in the day are heated to prevent passengers from getting chilled.
8. Fortress HMS Belfast
The HMS Belfast is both a well-known London landmark and a WWII-era ship.
During your tour of the decommissioned cruiser, you will see the nine decks where men formerly lived and battled for weeks at a time.
Explore the history of the conflict and examine some of the weapons used before Armistice Day.
9. London's Majestic Palaces
London is home to numerous magnificent palaces that are rich in history and culture.
You shouldn't leave London without visiting the Palaces of Hampton Court, Kensington, and the Banqueting House. Acquiring a London Palace pass could save you both time and money.
London in November: Events to Look Out For
Several events await you during your stay in London in November, these include:
1. November 5: The Big Night of Lights
In honor of Guy Fawkes Night, there is a rhyme that goes, "Remember, remember the fifth of November."
Kew Gardens, Hyde Park, God's Garden, Crystal Palace, Blackheath, Somerset House, and the national theatre are just some of the hotspots for a festive spirit.
Forest-like display and magnificent fireworks displays at bonfire night can be seen there. At these street fairs, families consume a lot of food and alcohol.
2. November 12: The EFG London Jazz Festival
The city's top jazz bands and vocalists will perform for the duration of the festival. Shows, concerts, and other events can be seen at the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, and Wigmore Hall.
3. November 12: The Lord Mayor's Show
On this day, the newly elected Mayor of London travels from the City of London to the Palace of Westminster to swear allegiance to the monarch.
Having begun in 1215, this celebration has continued each year since. A procession featuring 140 floats, 7,000 entertainers, and the Lord Mayor's Coach is held in its honor.
4. November 11–13: Remembrance Days in London
Remembrance Day is a commemoration of the lives lost during World War I. It is also known as Armistice Day and Poppy Day.
Londoners observe a moment of silence at 11 a.m. on November 11 and hold parades and musical performances all over the city on November 13, known as "Remembrance Sunday," to pay tribute to veterans and those who have died serving their country.
Where to Stay in London in November - Embrace the Chill in Style!
If you're jetting off to London in November, you're in for an autumnal treat. But where to hang your hat at the end of a chilly day spent exploring?
Worry not, we're here to give you the lowdown on the coziest corners to stay in London when the leaves are falling.
Bloomsbury - For the Culture Vultures
If sipping on a hot brew in a quirky cafe after a morning at the British Museum is your idea of a perfect November day, then Bloomsbury is the spot for you.
It's an intellectual paradise, dripping in history and leafy squares where you can enjoy the fall colours.
Check out boutique hotels like The Bloomsbury, where you can snuggle up in a library turned bar. Could it get any more British than that?
Kensington - The Royal Treatment
Fancy rubbing elbows with the royals? Kensington is the place to stay! Here, you'll find Kensington Palace, where Prince William and Kate Middleton reside, plus a fantastic range of boutique shops and high-end eateries.
Try the Milestone Hotel for a lavish experience. You might not get an invite to tea with the Duke and Duchess, but you'll certainly live like royalty!
Shoreditch - The Hipster's Haven
If you're after a more edgy, artsy experience, head to Shoreditch. This area is known for its lively street art scene, eclectic bars, and vintage markets.
Check out the Ace Hotel for a blend of cool, contemporary vibes with a dash of hipster-chic.
After a day exploring, head up to their rooftop bar for a breathtaking view of the city under November's early evening skies.
Covent Garden - Shopper's Paradise
Love to shop? Covent Garden is your ideal home base. From designer boutiques to unique independent stores, it's a shopper's paradise.
Indulge in a bit of retail therapy then cozy up in one of the many nearby theatres. Opt for the Henrietta Hotel for its chic rooms and proximity to the best shopping spots.
Remember, London in November is as much about snug nights in with a hot chocolate as it is about bracing walks through its historic streets. So, choose a cozy, welcoming spot and make your stay just as memorable as your sightseeing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is London Too Cold In November?
Yes, London can indeed get quite cold in November. The temperature can drop to as low as 2 degrees Celsius, especially during the night.
However, the average daytime temperature generally stays around 8-12 degrees Celsius. It's a crisp, chilly time of year, but the cold also brings with it a unique charm as the city gears up for the holiday season.
Is November A Good Time To Visit The UK?
Absolutely! November can be a delightful time to visit the UK, especially if you're a fan of cooler weather and festive preparations.
Many of the UK's cities, including London, begin to twinkle with Christmas lights and decorations, giving them a magical, festive atmosphere.
Plus, November often sees fewer tourists than the summer months, so you'll have more opportunity to explore attractions without the crowds.
What Should I Wear In London In November?
In London's November chill, it's wise to dress warmly. You should pack a good, warm coat or jacket - waterproof would be an added advantage considering the frequent showers during this time. Layering is also a good idea to adjust to the indoor and outdoor temperatures.
Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect yourself against the wind. Good-quality, comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city. And lastly, bring an umbrella or a raincoat for the occasional November showers.
Is London Expensive In November?
Interestingly, November can be a more budget-friendly time to visit London compared to the peak summer months. Flight prices generally tend to be lower as November falls within the off-peak travel season.
In terms of accommodation, you may find some hotels offering lower rates due to fewer tourists.
As for the cost of living, it remains fairly constant throughout the year, but you might find special offers in cafes and restaurants catering to the local crowd rather than tourists.
However, it's still important to note that London is generally considered an expensive city, so plan your budget accordingly.
Conclusion
You're probably skeptical about spending your vacation in London in November. Will it be a hit or a miss? well, it's a big hit!
From beautiful sceneries of iconic buildings, fun activities like ice skating, travelling to places through major train stations to several Christmas shows, there's always something interesting to experience while staying in London in November.
So, spending your vacation with your loved ones in London in November is worth a memorable experience.
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