November in the UK is a perfect time to enjoy seasonal celebrations, discover indoor sights and partake in cultural activities because of the milder weather. During the winter months, the UK can be quite enchanting with its picturesque scenery, lively events, and snug bars where you can unwind with a hot beverage or delicious meal after a full day of exploring the country. It gets colder, the days get shorter, and the red and orange leaves drop to the ground, leaving the trees barren.
Weather in the UK in November
UK in November weather brings cooler temperatures. The weather in November UK range from 3 to 10 degrees Celsius. London sees daily highs averaging 12 degrees Celcius and lows averaging 7 degrees Celcius. Several cities in Northern England, such as Leeds and Newcastle, experience slightly lower temperatures on average.
November brings more gloomy clouds and rain. England gets an average of 9 cm of rain, with the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream contributing to a larger concentration over areas of the west and south coast. Less rain falls on the east coast, but the possibility of strong winds from the North Sea makes it feel colder. Even though it does not often snow in November, higher areas like the Scottish Highlands might get a sprinkling of snow.
Things to Do in the UK in November
There are plenty of things to do in London in November, including,
1) Celebrate Bonfire Night
Originating from political strife, Bonfire Night honours the aborted Gunpowder Plot of 1605, during which Guy Fawkes and his accomplices sought to blow up King James I and the Houses of Parliament. Communities all over the nation come alive with their own Bonfire Night celebrations, taking place in fields, parks, and even backyards.
2) Experience Winter Wonderland in London
The much-awaited Winter Wonderland opens in London in November. Cheerful holiday music fills the park, and the aroma of roasting chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air. Sights abound with a big Ferris wheel, ice skaters gliding on the largest open-air ice rink in the UK, and vendors selling crafts, souvenirs, and seasonal food. Among the main draws of this well-known theme park in London are its rides catering to all age groups and its magnificent ice sculptures at the Magical Ice Kingdom.
3) Explore the Christmas Markets
Christmas markets mark the start of the festive season in the UK. The aroma of warm pretzels, bratwursts and mulled wine will meet you as you stroll through the Edinburgh Christmas Markets. Each stall features handcrafted toys, ornaments and traditional German crafts. A trip to the Manchester Christmas Market is also recommended. This market, which spans multiple city squares, is notable for the wide selection of both local and European food. Savour delicious Spanish paella, Hungarian goulash, or Dutch pancakes, and then peruse booths featuring handcrafted goods and souvenirs. Apres Ski Bar and Santa Enchanted Ice Castle are two highlights of the Winter Wonderland Christmas Market of Bristol.
4) Join a Movember fundraising campaign
A month-long charitable initiative called Movember aims to raise money and awareness for male health concerns. Even while the campaign is global, it is very much present in the UK, and you can support the charity by taking part in several events all month long. The moustache-growing challenge, the most famous aspect of Movember, sees competitors, referred to as Mo Bros, start the month clean-shaven and focus on growing and maintaining their moustaches throughout November. There are a lot of Movember running events. These are 5k or 10k races when runners gather to run for charitable causes, frequently donning moustaches or costumes with moustache themes.
5) Celebrate Diwali
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a big Hindu holiday observed throughout the UK, especially in places like London, Leicester, Birmingham, and Manchester. Leicester hosts one of the biggest Diwali celebrations outside of India, turning the Golden Mile into a dazzling display of light. Every year, Trafalgar Square in London holds a massive Diwali festival. Visitors can indulge in activities, such as yoga classes, live music performances, and workshops featuring Bollywood dance.
6) Visit the Museums
There are many top-notch museums and galleries in London that are ideal for exploring on a chilly November day. The displays of the British Museum are a maze that takes visitors on a journey through various cultures and eras of human history. A fusion of design and art is on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum. The Natural History Museum will appeal to science enthusiasts.
7) Go to one of the UK Spa Towns
In November, take a break in one of the spa towns in the UK. The Thermae Bath Spa is the hub of the contemporary spa culture and the only naturally heated thermal spa in the UK. Even on chilly days, you may enjoy a luxurious bath in the rooftop pool, which is heated to a comfortable 33.5 degrees Celsius all year round. The northern vacation town of Harrogate has been known for its healing mineral waters since the Victorian era. You may unwind in the steam rooms and cool off in the plunge pool of this beautifully restored Victorian building. Devonshire Spa, a facility of the University of Derby, features a sauna, steam room, and hydrotherapy pool along with a range of treatments that use natural mineral waters.
8) Enjoy a Peaceful Beach Vacation
November is a great month for a peaceful beach vacation. Cornwall is a beautiful place in the outermost reaches of southwest England. Visitors throng to coastal communities in the summer. By November, the numbers have thinned out. This is an excellent place to stroll along uninhabited beaches like Fistral or Gwithian and observe the waves breaking against the coast. November is a great month to observe storms.
Brighton or Dover are great options for a beach-themed winter day excursion from London. November in Brighton is much less busy than other months. It provides a welcome change of scenery with its pebble beach, famous pier, and quaint alleyways.
Places to Visit in the UK in November
These Places to Visit in the UK in November are perfect for a November trip, whether you are seeking rural getaways or urban exploration.
1) London
With famous landmarks like the Tower of London, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace, London is a great option in November. Mid-month sees the appearance of Christmas lights, and crowds to the attractions are lower than during the busiest travel times. Oxford Street, features a breathtaking display of over 80,000 Christmas lights, illuminating the well-known attractions of the city for the holiday season. New Year’s Eve Fireworks in the UK are some of the most spectacular in the world. Places like London hosts eye-catching displays to ring in the new year.
2) Edinburgh
Edinburgh is one of the best destinations to go to the UK in winter. A beautiful light show in Princes Street Gardens, where over a thousand fairy lights are turned on for the Festival of Lights. With cooler weather, fewer tourists, and the start of the Christmas markets, November in the Scotland capital is charming. Visitors can explore Edinburgh Castle, enjoy the view from Arthur Seat, or walk along the Royal Mile.
3) Peak District
With more than 1.8 million tourists each year, the Peak District is one of the most well-liked winter tourist attractions in the United Kingdom. One of the best stately homes in Britain, Chatsworth House near Bakewell, is one of the most visited locations in the Peak District in the winter. A variety of seasonal events and activities are available to visitors, such as the well-liked festive illuminated walk, Christmas exhibition tour, and Christmas market.
4) York
With over a million tourists annually, York is one of the most sought-after winter tourist destinations in the UK. Tourists may take advantage of all that this little city has to offer, including its breathtaking mediaeval architecture, cobblestone streets, York Minister, Shambles, and Jorvik Viking Centre.
5) The Cotswolds
Various charming rural taverns, picturesque villages, and picture-perfect Cotswold stone homes decked out in Christmas lights await visitors to the Cotswolds. Enjoy the beauty of chilly mornings by going for a stroll around the charming towns of Bourton on the Water or Bibury during the winter.
6) Lake District
With an astounding 14.9 million tourists annually, the Lake District is one of the most well-liked tourist sites in the UK. William Wordsworth immortalised the region in his poetry, and renowned writers, ranging from Beatrix Potter to Arthur Ransome, paid visits and fell in love with this picturesque corner of England. The Lake District has breathtaking hiking and biking trails, unparalleled landscapes, and fantastic taverns for warm winter evenings beside crackling log fires. November is a great time to visit the Lake District if you love the outdoors. Hiking, boat trips, and strolls around the lakes are all made possible by the crisp air and picturesque surroundings.
7) Brighton
Brighton is among the small Towns in the UK. Being a coastal town, it remains bustling in November. Warm up with a hot beverage in one of the beach cafes after strolling along Brighton Pier, walking the colourful alleyways, and seeing the Royal Pavilion.
Events and Festivals in the UK in November
1) Guy Fawkes Night
Guy Fawkes Night or Bonfire Night is when the British rejoice that the conspirators of the Gunpowder Plot were unable to blow up the Houses of Parliament. Fireworks and the burning of a Guy, or effigy, over a bonfire are used to commemorate it. Fireworks represent the explosives that conspirators did not end up using.
Venue – Alexandra Palace, London
Date – November 5, 2024
Timings – Evening
Ticket Price – NA
2) National Saxophone Day
National Saxophone Day is celebrated on the birthday of Adolphe Sax, a Belgian instrument maker and the man who invented the saxophone. Choose your favourite saxophonist to listen to, or think about picking up this wonderful instrument yourself. Celebrate the saxophone with concerts, seminars, and jam sessions throughout the United Kingdom on this day.
Venue – Various jazz clubs, schools, and performance spaces across the nation
Date – November 6, 2024
Timings – All-day celebration, depending on the venue
Ticket Price – Free for many school events. Some jazz venues may have a cover charge.
3) Steve Irwin Day
Steve Irwin Day is an annual international celebration that honours the life and legacy of the legendary Crocodile Hunter and brings attention to his passion for animal conservation. It is observed on November 15 of each year.
Venue – Online events and zoos across the UK
Date – November 15, 2024
Timings – All day
Ticket Price – Free
4) UB 40
UB40 will be rocking the stage with a combination of pop and reggae as they play their best hits. Audiences can anticipate a thrilling show that features hit songs from their vast discography.
Venue – OVO Arena, Wembley, London, UK
Date – November 23, 2024
Timings – Doors open: 7 pm
Ticket Price – £38.50 to £65.00
5) London Jazz Festival 2024
One of the biggest jazz festivals in Europe is the London Jazz Festival. It offers concerts in both classic and avant-garde jazz genres, showcasing a blend of worldwide jazz luminaries and local talent. Big names in the jazz world will perform alongside up-and-coming musicians this year, at locations ranging from opulent concert halls to small jazz bars. Alongside the main events, there will be masterclasses, workshops, and free performances.
Venue – Southbank Centre, Royal Albert Hall, Ronnie Scott Jazz Club
Date – November 15 to November 24, 2024
Timings – From 6 pm to 10 pm
Ticket Price – Starting £12
Travel Advice for November Visits to the UK
Travelling to the UK in November needs some preparation. The following suggestions can help ensure a hassle-free and pleasurable journey.
- It is advisable to pack a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes for outdoor activities.
- Carry an umbrella.
- Reserve your lodging in advance to get the best rates.
- The convenient way to travel around the United Kingdom is the public transit system including the London Underground, buses, and trains.
- November is shoulder season. Look for discounts on travel, lodging, and tickets.
- Schedule your outside activities during the morning and early afternoon because sunsets can occur as early as 4 PM.
Facts to Consider Before Travelling to the UK in November
Before you go for your November trip, remember these important details.
- The British Pound is the currency used in the United Kingdom. Although credit cards are accepted, it is helpful to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
- The UK observes Greenwich Mean Time.
- Check for public holidays in November before your trip.
- It is expected to tip 10 to 15 per cent of the total bill in the UK restaurants.
- The electrical outlets in the UK are 230V. Do not forget to pack a plug adaptor.
Wrapping Up
Tourists can schedule their journeys across the UK in December to enjoy Christmas lights and joyous shopping.
Explore the UK through the year
FAQs regarding November in the UK
1) Is November a suitable month to travel to the UK?
November is a great month to come to the UK for people who want to avoid the crowds. Though it can be chilly and rainy, it is the ideal time to visit museums and galleries, take in the historic buildings around the UK, and discover cultural destinations without the crowds of tourists. A festive feel is also added by early November events like Bonfire Night and the opening of Christmas markets.
2) What kinds of things can I do in November in the United Kingdom?
There are numerous activities to enjoy in the UK in November. You may take beautiful treks in national parks, see Christmas markets, see historical locations like castles, watch football games, or relax with an afternoon tea.
3) Is it expensive to travel to the UK in November?
Travelling in November is less expensive than travelling to the UK in the summer or around Christmas. Attractions, lodging, and flights all often have more affordable prices. Some destinations offer off-peak savings. Booking early will help you get cheaper bargains.
4) Can I expect snow in the UK in November?
Snow is uncommon in most parts of the UK in November. Higher areas like the Scottish Highlands may get snowfall early in the season.
5) Do Christmas markets prevail in November in the United Kingdom?
Many Christmas markets open their doors in the middle of November. They provide festive shopping, dining options, and entertainment.