Welcome back everyone! We now what you are thinking…Christmas is coming. Despite the long dark evenings now the clocks have gone back, November is sparkling, and not just because of all the Diwali celebrations, Bonfire Night antics and Christmas light switch-ons that happen around the city at this time of year.

Here is my recommended list of things to do in London this November:

Bonfire Night firework displays in London

While there are many epic bonfires across the UK, you’ll be hard-pressed to find as many concentrated in the same place as in London. You’ll find sparkles popping up in the night sky all over town this year. But, wherever you live in London, there’ll still be some sparkles to tempt you out into the winter cold. Here’s our pick of the best ones in town.

1. Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival: Alexandra Palace 3rd and 4th November

This small, family-focused fireworks event in Camden’s Coram Fields proves its kid-friendly credentials by taking place a lot earlier than your average display, starting at 3.30pm and with the bangs and sparks lifting off at 6pm.

Christmas at Kew: 15th November until 7th January 2024

The mother of all light trails is back. Christmas at Kew has become a key date in London’s festive calendar as the 300-acre botanic garden is lit up with glistening lights and illuminations. This year’s route will take you past glass houses emblazoned with kaleidoscopic projections, through shimmering tunnels of light and trees drenched in jewel-bright colours. As usual, there’ll also be warming winter snacks and a grotto.

Skate at Somerset House: Aldwych 15th November until 14th January

What’s a London Christmas, without Somerset House’s iconic ice rink? Skate around the grand neoclassical courtyard on this huge, 900-square-metre outdoor rink, with a 40ft Christmas tree.

And there you are. Worth trying!

See you all in December for all the best things to do in London during Christmas month.

Bruno – Hotel Manager