London is crowded with tourists in December. Surprisingly, the numbers are low the month before. Aside from the fewer crowds, the series of events taking place in the city make a November visit worthwhile. 

November Events

You don’t have to wait for the latter weeks for exciting November events in London during your stay at any of the short stay apartments in London. On the first and second days, relieve the magic thanks to Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in Concert. David McVicar’s The Magic Flute production series also starts on November 1.

The first weekend is also jam-packed with events like Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh and Crystal Palace Fireworks. For vehicle enthusiasts, the Regent Street Motor Show and London to Brighton Veteran Car Run are something you shouldn’t miss.

Asian arts and cuisine take the center stage during the Diwali Festival on November 3. Held on Trafalgar Square, Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains join hands to celebrate the festival of lights. Expect performances and fairs featuring mainly South Asian and Southeast Asian products.

Staging Schiele’s world premiere will take place on November 4 and 5. Prepared by Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Company, the performance was based on artist Egon Schiele’s life. Starting on November 7, The Royal Ballet’s The Sleeping Beauty will charm the audience in Covent Garden.

If you’re a history buff, you might want to see the Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh. The exhibition will be held at the Saatchi Gallery from November 2, 2019, to May 3, 2020. British Museum will also host Troy, an exhibit about the legend of the said city.

You can also read: Enter the World of Harry Potter

Held every December, Lord Mayor’s Show is a must-see. To be clear, London’s official mayor doesn’t have to do with the event. It’s just a lord mayor that’s replaced every year. The installation of the new mayor is followed by a grand parade.

You don’t have to wait for December to know what Christmas in London feels like. After a tree-lighting ceremony, the streets of Oxford and Regent will be filled with holiday lights as early as November.  Near Angel Tube Station, there’s also a five-day fair hosted by Country Living magazine. Starting from the 13th, you can even skate at Somerset House. 

Planning Tips

It’s not that hard to book accommodations at any holiday apartments in London unless it’s on or around the time of Thanksgiving. Avoid those dates as the rates tend to go up as well.

Never take things for granted. If you’re visiting London, you should always bring an umbrella. A raincoat is also worth considering. 

If you like to try affordable yet delicious meals, try food markets. You can even buy souvenirs from there. Local and imported goods are available therein.

As much as possible, choose a hotel near tube stations or tourist spots like Leicester Square and Oxford Street. Get tickets and passes in advance as well. As prices are lower during November, you won’t be the only one taking advantage of them so plan well.