With fewer crowds, mild weather, and a host of annual events happening across the city, November may be one of the best times of the year to plan a trip to London. Since the month falls in the middle of the city’s shoulder season for tourism, you’ll likely find cheaper flights and lower prices at hotels in London, especially if you’re traveling during the first half of November or after Thanksgiving.
Although the weather is colder and tourists aren’t flocking to the city in nearly as high of numbers, there are still plenty of events and festivals taking place this month, including the Lord Mayor Show and the London Jazz Festival. Additionally, Christmas lights start clicking on across the country in mid-November and events celebrating the holiday pick up toward the end of the month, so if you’re looking to get into the season early, you’re sure to find plenty of opportunities in London this year.
London Weather in November
Although temperatures in London start off around 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius) at the first of the month, the weather gets increasingly colder over the course of November before settling down at an average high of 48 degrees Fahrenheit (9 degrees Celsius) on December 1. Fortunately, the temperature doesn’t fluctuate much between daytime and nighttime in London, and temperatures rarely drop below freezing at any point in the month.
- Average high: 48 degrees Fahrenheit (9 degrees Celsius)
- Average low: 43 degrees Fahrenheit (6 degrees Celsius)
Unfortunately, November can be one of the rainiest times of the year in London—and one of the most overcast. With an average of fewer than two hours of sunshine per day and 14 to 17 days of rain expected over the month, November weather can be particularly dreary if you’re not used to the climate of England. However, you are more likely to experience a light drizzle instead of an outright downpour, and the month of November is known for sporadic sunny days with unseasonably warm temperatures of up to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius).
What to Pack
Since the London weather can be unpredictable in November, you’ll want to pack layers of clothing that offer varying warmth and protection from the elements. Short and long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, cardigans, pullovers, a light jacket, and a pair of comfortable—preferably waterproof—shoes are essential for a comfortable trip. You may also want to consider investing in a stylish raincoat in addition to bringing an umbrella as it will do a better job of protecting your clothes from the drizzly and misty weather that London experiences throughout this month.
November Events in London
Special events and celebrations start early in November with Bonfire Night fireworks displays and effigy burnings all around the city on November 5. No matter what time of the month you visit, you’re sure to find something exciting to do in London. Whether you’re taking a moment on Remembrance Sunday to honor British veterans or checking out some local talent at the London Jazz Festival, planning your vacation around these great events will enhance your experience:
- Bonfire Night: Bonfire Night, celebrated on November 5 each year, is also known as Guy Fawkes Night. This commemorates the revolutionary who attempted to blow up the House of Parliament in 1605. An effigy of Fawkes is often burned on a bonfire on this anniversary.
- London to Brighton Veteran Car Run: Celebrating the history of automobile development in England, this annual tradition started in 1896 and only allows vehicles built before January 1, 1905, to compete in the run.
- Remembrance Sunday: Equivalent to America’s Veteran’s Day, this national holiday is celebrated on the nearest Sunday to November 11, with special community events across London.
- Lord Mayor’s Show: On the second Saturday of November, a new Lord Mayor of the City of London is sworn into duty for the year, followed by a grand parade through the city streets.
- London Jazz Festival: Over the course of 10 days this month, this city-wide festival will showcase performances by both rising stars and jazz legends alike.
- Christmas Lights in the West End: Both Oxford Street and Regent Street switch on their holiday lights for the season in early November, often marked with a tree-lighting ceremony.
November Travel Tips
Although there are no official Bank Holidays in London until Christmas Day, there are still plenty of opportunities to take a long weekend trip from the city if you can get time off from work. These suggestions will help you plan your getaway:
- Avoid traveling during America’s Thanksgiving as hotel prices will likely increase to accommodate the influx of tourists.
- London schools are in session throughout November, so visiting attractions during the weekdays will typically result in fewer lines and shorter wait times at even the most popular destinations.
- London’s West End is renowned for its theaters and performing arts centers, as well as its world-class entertainment options. Be sure to enjoy an evening at one of these venues.
