I find November to be a more local-feeling time to see the city. While summer and December see peak crowds and inflated hotel prices, November offers a lull where you can secure better rates at top-tier properties. It is a strategic month for theater-goers and museum-lovers who want to avoid the school-holiday crushes of October and the frantic shopping mobs of late December. You get the benefit of the city’s early festive atmosphere without the full-blown holiday exhaustion.
- Best for: World-class museums, West End theater, historic pub culture, lower hotel prices, and early holiday markets.
- Less ideal for: Extensive park walking, outdoor dining, and travelers who struggle with the sun setting by mid-afternoon.
London Weather in November
The weather in London this month is characterized by variability and grayness. Long-term averages typically hover between 9°C and 12°C during the day, dropping to 4°C to 7°C at night. However, do not rely on these numbers alone. The damp Atlantic wind often makes it feel colder than the thermometer suggests. Expect frequent drizzle and dampness, though some days can be quite wet. It is the type of cold that seeps in if you are not moving, so I always recommend planning for short bursts of outdoor walking between indoor stops.
Managing the Shrinking Daylight
One of the most important things I tell travelers is to watch the clock. Daylight disappears rapidly in London this month. In early November, sunset is around 4:30 PM; by the end of the month, it pulls back to nearly 4:00 PM. This shift dictates your itinerary. I suggest visiting parks, outdoor markets, or viewpoints like Primrose Hill in the morning to make the most of the natural light. Save your museum visits, shopping, and theater shows for the late afternoon when the city’s lights take over.
London in November vs October and December
October vs November: October still benefits from the last of the autumn foliage and slightly milder temperatures. However, the UK half-term school holidays in late October can make the major attractions incredibly crowded and expensive. November is calmer and easier to navigate.
November vs December: December is visually spectacular but can be a logistical nightmare with massive crowds in the West End. November gives you a head start on the festive vibe. Many major festive markets and ice rinks usually open by mid-to-late month, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere before the December surge.
November Events in London
- Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night): Held on or around November 5th. While some suggest just finding a hill, I recommend booking tickets for organized displays at places like Alexandra Palace, Battersea Park, or Wimbledon Park. These are ticketed, high-demand events that offer a safer and more impressive experience.
- Remembrance Sunday: Usually the second Sunday of the month. It is a major national event at the Cenotaph in Whitehall. If you are in the area, expect significant road closures and large crowds paying their respects.
- The Lord Mayor’s Show: An annual procession through the City of London with over 800 years of history. Dates vary, so check official schedules once you book. It is a fantastic free spectacle, but it does cause significant transit disruption in the Square Mile on the day of the event.
Best Things to Do in London in November
This is the perfect month to lean into London’s indoor strengths. I recommend booking matinee theater tickets; there is no better way to spend a dark, rainy Tuesday afternoon than in a historic West End playhouse.
Museums are at their best now. To avoid disappointment on wet weekends, always prebook timed entry for the British Museum or the Natural History Museum. If the weather turns particularly foul, use the riverboats (Uber Boat by Thames Clippers) as a scenic transit alternative; they are heated and offer great views of the Tower of London without the wind chill.
Late in the month, the Christmas lights on Oxford Street and Regent Street are fully operational. I suggest walking these routes on a weekday evening to avoid the worst of the Saturday shopping surge.
What to Pack for London in November
Packing for London this month is about moisture management and temperature control.
- The Layering System: The Tube is notoriously warm year-round, while the street is cold and damp. I wear a light sweater over a t-shirt, topped with a high-quality waterproof coat.
- Footwear: Forget canvas sneakers. You need leather or treated boots with good grip. London pavements become very slick when wet and covered in fallen leaves.
- Visibility: Because it gets dark so early, I suggest a coat with some reflective detail or a bright umbrella if you plan on doing a lot of walking near traffic.
- Accessories: A light scarf and gloves are essential for standing in line for attractions or waiting for a bus.
Where to Stay in London in November
I prioritize hotels with excellent transit links to minimize your time spent walking in the rain.
- Best for First-Timers: Kimpton Fitzroy. It sits directly on Russell Square, giving you immediate access to the Piccadilly Line and a short walk to the British Museum.
- Best for Families: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge. Its proximity to the SEA LIFE Aquarium and the London Eye makes it very easy to keep kids entertained.
- Best for Eurostar Travelers: St. Pancras Renaissance. You can go from your train to your room almost entirely undercover, which is a massive win on a rainy day.
- Best for Value: Motel One Tower Hill. It is consistently clean, stylish, and located near the best historic pubs in the City.
- Best for Couples: The Soho. Located in the heart of the theater district, it is the perfect base for a theater-focused trip.
- Best for Luxury: The Savoy. This is the place to be if you want to see legendary holiday decorations as they begin to appear late in the month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is November a good time to visit London?
I think it is one of the best months for travelers who want a more local-feeling London at a better value. You trade off some daylight for much easier access to top-tier dining and world-class theater.
Is the Tube reliable in November?
The core network is generally reliable, though you should check the TfL Go app for live updates. While National Rail and some overground sections can face minor autumn disruptions, the Underground usually runs well for central sightseeing.
What time does it get dark in London in November?
The sun typically sets around 4:30 PM in early November and as early as 4:00 PM by the end of the month. I always tell people to plan their outdoor sightseeing for the morning hours to maximize natural light.
Are Christmas markets open in November?
Yes, many major festive markets and ice rinks open in mid-to-late November. If you want the holiday vibe without the peak December crowds, I suggest visiting during the last ten days of the month.
What should I wear for a November trip?
Waterproof shoes and layers are the two most important factors. You need to be able to strip off a coat quickly when you enter a warm Tube carriage and put it back on for the damp street.
Should I book a hotel in advance for November?
Yes, especially if you are looking for hotels for families. While it is quieter than summer, the best-located hotels still fill up with business travelers and early holiday shoppers.
Is the London Eye worth it in November?
It depends entirely on visibility. If it is a foggy or heavily raining day, I would skip it.
Can I see the fireworks on Bonfire Night?
The best way is to book tickets for a sanctioned event at a park like Battersea or Alexandra Palace. Simply hoping to see them from a random street corner is usually a disappointment, so check official listings early.
Is London cheaper in November?
Generally, yes, as hotel rates are often lower than in the summer or the week between Christmas and New Year. For more context on value and planning, see my guide to London for First Timers.
Is the weather too rainy for sightseeing?
November often brings drizzle and dampness, though some days can be quite wet. This should not stop you from sightseeing as long as you have waterproof footwear and a solid plan for indoor activities.
About Santorini Dave