November in the City of London brings an array of festive activities, cultural experiences, and seasonal events. From historic shows to sparkling light displays, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Here’s a rundown of the best things to do in the City this November!
On Saturday 9 November, come and see a tradition over 800 years old and one of the biggest dates in the City of London's calendar.
The Lord Mayors Show is a lively spectacle of sights and sounds that brings together over 7,000 participants, 200 horses, and approximately 150 groups and floats to celebrate the Lord Mayor’s first full day in office.
There is also lots of fun things to see and do throughout the day, so you can make a whole day of it.
150 years after its first performance in Vienna, Johann Strauss II’s Die Fledermaus arrives at Silk Street Theatre this November.
Set against a backdrop of waltzes and polkas, the production takes audiences on a journey of mistaken identities and mischievous escapades. Tickets from £30, with concessions at £15.
Courtesy of Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
Explore the intricate art of printmaking with artist and co-curator Anne Desmet RA at Guildhall Art Gallery. This tour dives into the themes of construction and metamorphosis in Desmet’s work, combining both historic and contemporary techniques. Tickets are £10.
Credit to City of London Corporation.
At the Barbican, conductor Daniele Rustioni and violinist Francesca Dego make their London Symphony Orchestra debut, presenting a Romanticism-inspired program featuring Liszt, Mendelssohn, and Schubert’s final symphony. Together with the LSO’s unique blend of grace and power, they promise an evening of music to remember. Ticket prices vary from £18 to £70.
Engage with the ancient wonders of Rome through this interactive workshop at London’s Roman Amphitheatre. Dr. Kathryn Tempest and Professor Gesine Manuwald explore some of the most famous historical sites in ancient Rome - including the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Circus Maximus – and will discuss their cultural impact. This free event is part of the Being Human Festival and is open to all.
The Barbican’s EFG London Jazz Festival returns this month with performances from global icons to local rising stars. The program includes free performances, exclusive screenings, and collaborations with the London Symphony Orchestra, creating an eclectic mix of jazz for every taste.
Get into the festive spirit with the Fleet Street Quarter’s penguin sculpture trail. In partnership with WWF, 12 uniquely designed penguins will be placed around the Fleet Street area, each offering fun facts and quirky anecdotes via QR codes. Perfect for families to explore and free to all.
The Fleet Street Quarter Penguin Parade Sculpture Trail. Image credit: Wild in Art,
Experience The Nutcracker like never before with Alexandra Dariescu’s reimagined production, blending live piano with digital animations and ballet. Celebrating its 100th performance, this show combines timeless music with 21st-century visual artistry.
Outside Citypoint and Principal Place, the light installations “Glow” and “Trumpet Flowers” invite visitors to interact with an enchanting display of lights and sounds. Designed by Sydney’s Amigo & Amigo studio, these installations create a playful atmosphere, perfect for an evening stroll.
"Glow” at Principal Place.
Savor a unique twist on the traditional Sunday Roast at Straits Kitchen. Enjoy Peking duck, char siu pork belly, and Yorkshire puddings, with live music and Taittinger Champagne setting the tone. Two courses for £39 and three courses for £49.
On 14 November, the Lord Mayor will be switching on the Christmas lights at Leadenhall Market, unveiling an 18ft Christmas tree beneath the Victorian atrium. With a light tunnel, garlands, and a festive atmosphere, it’s a magical way to kick off the holiday season.
Celebrate the 150th anniversary of Gustav Holst’s The Planets with a celestial program that includes works by Thomas Adès and Kaija Saariaho. The performance is held at Barbican Hall, with tickets ranging from £14 to £25.
Image credit: Paul Cochrane
The London International Animation Festival returns this month, offering a rich selection of animated films from around the world. This festival takes place across multiple venues in London, including the Barbican Centre, where they will be showcasing independent and experimental animation, with screenings and talks celebrating the creativity of this art form.
Credit Max Colson
Get into the holiday spirit with festive dining options at The Ned. With set menus available at multiple venues, enjoy dishes like roast turkey, whole lobster, or lamb shank tacos, with prices ranging from £60 to £85 per person.
Revisit the vibrant cabaret scene of 1920s Berlin with live music performances at Engel. Featuring German and Austrian delicacies alongside musical performances, Engel brings the glamour of the era to life from 7:30 to 9:30 pm.
Engel. Credit Eleonora Boscarelli ely.bsc_photography
Support local artisans and creatives at the Golden Lane Festive Market. Enjoy browsing unique handmade items, with the community café also raising funds on the day to support community events for local residents. The market runs from 12 pm to 4 pm with free entry.
Leadenhall Market’s covered walkways will be hosting a series of festive themed weekend markets featuring vintage furniture and fashion, and handmade crafts. Stalls are open from 12 to 5pm and include both holiday and vintage markets, perfect for festive shopping.
Explore the history of Leadenhall Market with a guided Christmas-themed walking tour. Running every Wednesday from 20 November to 11 December, these tours cover everything from Roman history to Dickens’ Victorian celebrations. Tickets are £8.30 and must be booked in advance.
Visit The Charterhouse on 26 November and enjoy over 50 stalls with brilliant gift ideas in atmospheric surroundings. Expect beautiful crafts, gifts, housewares, accessories, seasonal artisan food & drink products, and the Charterhouse Christmas Café with the Brothers Bar.
Entry is from 10am to 8pm, with last admission at 7:30pm. General entry: £8.00
