As Christmas and New Year’s Eve draws closer, London’s festive spirit is at its peak. While the exciting capital city is buzzing with activity this winter season, there are plenty of memorable experiences lined up for the remaining months of the year. Read on and get some inspiration to make the onset of winter days in London the most fun-filled ones!
Winter by the River Market
London Bridge’s alluring riverside holiday market is returning to bring festive cheer this winter and you’re sure to love it! Opening on November 15, Winter by the River is one of London’s most-awaited Christmas markets, just a stone’s throw from your London accommodation. Witness an array of cute winter cabins line on the banks of the river Thames, full of delectable street food stalls, crafty creations, pop-up bars and Karaoke at the Pier (new to 2023). Listen to brilliant music as you sip some Prosecco and soak in the festive vibe with a host of storytelling events, tastings, and workshops.
All-New Show Openings in West End
The West End is known for its unrivalled theatre scene. If you are in London this November, there’s an incredible lineup of extremely well-made theatrical representations, making their debut in the West End. With a roster of shows to catch, moments away from Paddington London hotels, here are some that you must add to your bucket list:
Running at the Barbican Centre from November 21, catch the highly acclaimed adaptation of the much-loved Ghibli film. It’s a limited 18-week run, so plan accordingly.
- The Time Machine – A Comedy
Making its entry to West End on November 30, Park Theatre’s newest and most-awaited opening is this meta comic! Relive H.G. Well’s classic time-travel story, as you see the most talented artists and actors in a great show.
EFG London-Wide Jazz Festival
If you love jazz music or you’re simply on the lookout for some great music events, you must know about the EFG London Jazz Festival. See the city come to life with jazz from November 10 to 19 and find yourself vibing to the most well-curated music performances by world-renowned bands and musicians like Emeli Sande. With the most interesting line-up of events, take part in Jazz Yoga or a darbuka workshop for drumming.
Get your tickets now and head to the Southbank Centre to attend some free gigs and even celebrate the influence of Jamaica on Britain’s Jazz scene for a special experience. Reserve your stay at The Craven Hotel London for an unmatched luxurious holiday experience. Stay close to not only the best music festival venue in town but also the most popular London landmarks, shining bright in the festive lights.
Tower of London’s Crown Jewels Display
You are invited to experience a dazzling light show dappling the walls of the iconic Tower of London. Known by the name ‘Crown and Coronation’, the stunning display will run from November 17 to 25. Take a journey through time and explore the spectacle of coronations across 1000 years of history. Keep your cameras ready to capture the detailed Crown Jewels footage and suit yourself to an after-hours viewing experience to conclude a well-spent day.
Delight- A Korean Art Installation
Witness the most eclectic combination of modern-day metropolises and ancient mythology in this immersive Korean art installation, known as Delight. Head to Borough Yards and discover 12 rooms featuring 25 marvellous multi-sensory installations. The large-scale moon sculpture and splendid artworks by Korean artists are sure to take your breath away at this unique media art exhibition.
Enter a Planet of Bubbles
The festive month of November also marks the opening of one of the most anticipated, new experiences in London: Bubble Planet. Step into a dreamy world of a veritable galaxy and themed rooms, almost fully made of bubbles, virtual bubble worlds, bubble installations and more. Running throughout November, head to Wembley Park for this memorable experience and you are sure to be left in awe!
Experience Winter Wonderland
What’s better than the capital’s biggest and most famous royal park, hosting a winter wonderland? If you’re on the lookout for a festive carnival, a thrilling roller coaster ride, some tantalising street food options, live performances, and a massive ice rink to test your skills, this one’s for you! Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland opens on 17th November and is the most Christmassy spot in London to be at.
See ‘Stranger Things’ on Stage
Do you think about Hawkin laboratory’s mysterious experiments? Or have you wondered what life was like for Jim Hopper before things took a twist? Well, you’re in luck because the all-new West End play Stranger Things: The First Shadow is opening on 17th November and answers all these questions and more. The performance will feature the original outline of the show by the Duffer Brothers and take you on a journey to the past and future of the Stranger Things series.
Experience a New York Museum in London
Did you know that New York’s very popular Rubin Museum has introduced a travelling version of Mandala Lab to Canary Wharf in London? Running until 25th November as part of the London Design Festival, this multi-sensory installation will help you understand the impact of your emotions on day-to-day life and explore emotional awareness in a way, not known before. The Mandala Lab is free to access and remains open from 12 to 6 p.m. at Union Square daily.
Candlelight Concerts
If you’re looking for a cosy getaway, November has some of the most mesmerising live musical renditions of beloved tracks. Famously known by the name of ‘Candlelight concerts’, here are some that you can attend for a memorable night out with your loved ones:
- A Tribute to Coldplay on 17th November at the Central Hall Westminster
- A Tribute to Taylor Swift on November 18th at Southwark Cathedral.
The Club Curling Experience
Starting on the 9th of November, venture out for a differentiated experience as you try out the very exciting Club Curling experience. Head to King’s Cross this month, and you’re sure to love your time as soon as the first-ever curling stone leaves your hand and makes its way down the lane. Brace your competitive self and enjoy your favourite cocktail and live DJ sets in the backdrop.
Glide Across the Ice
The best thing about London during the festive season is the number of ice rinks that pop up, perfect to spend the chilly days gliding! Be it the massive ice rinks surrounding towering Christmas trees or impressive rooftop spots to indulge in the ice adventure, you’re sure to be spoilt with choice! The legendary Somerset House ice rink and the Alexandra Palace ice rink are some of the most famous ones in the city.
World Vegan Month
Have you ever considered going vegan? November is a great time to try it out! Throughout World Vegan Month, restaurants all over London serve vegan special meals and great discounts on vegan dishes, perfect for you to make a switch. There is a plethora of only veg and vegan restaurants in London, so make the most of this time and go vegan!
Excited, aren’t we? So, plan your London holiday this November and have the best time with your loved ones.
