Want to stay busy this November? As the crisp autumn breeze sweeps across the UK, many captivating experiences and activities await you.
From paying respect on Remembrance Sunday to exploring picturesque autumnal landscapes and celebrating seasonal traditions. There’s plenty to discover and get up to! Make November 2023 nothing short of memorable with our list of the top 12 things to do in the UK.
Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival
3rd – 4th November
You can’t start November off right without seeing a spectacular fireworks display! Over the month, the UK will see thousands of splendid fireworks shows and festivals. But our top pick has to be the Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival.
This two-night bonfire extravaganza features more than an impressive fireworks display. With endless street food stalls, exciting live music and an array of thrilling amusement rides, Alexandra Palace is the place to be this Bonfire night weekend. Click here to check out our guide to the UK’s best Bonfire Nights.
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Diwali: Shine Your Light Festival
11th November
Partnering with London-based South Asian arts collective, COMMONGROUND&, Diwali: Shine your Light returns to the National Maritime Museum this autumn. Celebrating Hindus, Jains and Sikhs, this joyous traditional festival marks the ‘victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance’.
Featuring a glorious programme full of free activities and festivities to suit all ages and interests, explore the endless free workshops, art displays, light shows, live music and food stalls across the museum.
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Leeds International Film Festival
11th November
Interested in supporting the work of the up-and-coming filmmakers of this generation? Check out the Leeds International Film Festival this November. Founded in 1987, LIFF is based in the rich, historic filmmaking city of Leeds. Hosting a vast collection of well-curated film screenings, explore the evolving world of cinema at this exciting movie flick event.
Leeds International Film Festival 2022 saw 78 countries represented with various cash prize competitions won. Celebrate the exciting contemporary work from filmmakers across the UK and the world and discover the stunning industry landmarks, including Hyde Park Picture House and Howard Assembly Room.
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Explore the autumn colours of
Penrhos Coastal Park
Voted the UK’s favourite park in 2022, enjoy the perfect escape into nature this November at Penrhos Coastal Park. Penrhos Coastal Park is home to various coastal bird species including, Brent Geese and Red Breasted Mergansers and gorgeous meadow flora during the winter period. Explore this Welsh landscape’s stunning natural features and interesting geological characteristics that keen nature lovers will adore.
During your visit, why not enjoy a lovely coastal walk amongst the autumnal wildlife with family or your furry friend? Or enjoy an afternoon of tranquil bird watching?
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size?Sessions Festival
4th November
Connecting fashion and music, global clothing and footwear supplier ‘size?’ will return to the O2 Victoria Warehouse with their annual size?Sessions Festival this November. With the aim to give back to size?’s close-knit, sneakerhead community, size?Sessions Festival 2023 will bring together some of the biggest upcoming names in the drill, rap, grime and electronic scene for a night of good tunes and appreciation for all things streetwear.
With sets from Headie One, Digga D and Izzy Bossy, as well as a collection of food traders and VIP tickets giving you exclusive access to The North Face chill-out zone, size?Sessions Festival 2023 is one music event you don’t want to miss this November.
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Halloween at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter
15th September – 5th November
Discover the extraordinary world of Harry Potter, intricately redesigned and decorated for the spooky season! Halloween at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour means the return of the Darks Arts experience.
With mystical projections of the Dark Mark displayed across the studio sets and a procession of Death Eaters popping up throughout your tour make your Harry Potter behind-the-scenes day out even more memorable. Don’t forget to grab a picture with the iconic Grand Hall floating jack-o-lanterns.
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Thursday Club with Trail Nation
Fortnightly from the 2nd November
Stay active, meet new people and explore the gorgeous Welsh countryside with a guided trail run with Trail Nation. Taking place fortnightly throughout November, Thursday Club is the perfect opportunity to learn more about trail running and meet new people.
Instructed by two experienced trail/mountain runners, each night includes a 5-mile guided run along the woodland trails surrounding Taffs Well, just outside Cardiff. Whether you’re an experienced runner or a beginner looking to start a new hobby, this affordable running program is a great choice for aspiring adventurers this winter.
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Luminate Birmingham Winter Light Trail
25th November – 2nd January
Discover this spectacular winter light trail throughout the end of November, set within the historic grounds of Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Intricately designed by Luminate, start off the festive season with a magical evening out the whole family will enjoy.
Your little ones will love exploring the twisting and turning mile-long trail set amongst the Birmingham Botanical Garden estate. Enter a sensory paradise with ambient music and fascinating glowing elements, but book quickly though, tickets will go fast!
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Crown and Coronation at the Tower of London
17th – 25th November
Watch as the Tower of London lights up with colour for a royal tribute to Britain’s rich history. Check out the Crown and Coronation launch event this November, a spectacular sound and light installation beamed across the Tower of London.
Featuring an array of unearthed archive footage of monarchs and coronations of the past, this sparkling projection will be lighting up the London landmark across a nine-night period. Focusing on the importance the Crown Jewels play in each coronation, learn more about the fascinating history of Great Britain’s royal family.
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Newbury Vegan Market
19th November
With Veganary just around the corner, why not check out one of the best vegan markets in the UK? Newbury Vegan Market returns this November jam-packed with tasty vegan delights and sustainably sourced goods – and entry is free!
Turn up with an empty stomach and be tempted by mouthwatering plant-based street food and yummy baked goods. Or treat yourself to Newbury Vegan Market’s wonderful selection of handmade arts and crafts, cruelty-free cosmetics and ethically-made fashion pieces. Support independent food traders and creatives, or have a wander and get to know the people supporting the vegan movement.
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BBC Good Food Show Winter
23rd – 26th November
The biggest foodie day out is back for 2023! The BBC Good Food Show Winter edition is back showcasing hundreds of artisan food traders, festive tasting experiences and workshops from the top chefs and experts in the industry.
Get to know the guest chefs including James Martin, Nadiya Hussain, the Hairy Bikers and many more. Learn the techniques and skilled details of their signature dishes and get inspired to cook or bake the most divine winter dishes. Get in the mood for Christmas with this magnificent and festive market – don’t forget to check out our list of the UK’s best Christmas markets here.
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Celebrate St Andrew’s Day with the Blazin’ Fiddles at Usher Hall
30th November
Celebrate St Andrew’s night in the traditional Scottish setting with the iconic Blazin’ Fiddles this November. Performing in the glorious Usher Hall, Edinburgh, experience the Blazin’ Fiddles’ unique musical tunes inspired by the traditions and culture of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.
Their dynamic shows span from intimate sets in remote village halls to magnificent Royal Albert Hall shows. Enjoy the cosy, musical flavours of the folk genre and celebrate St Andrew’s Day in the most authentic Scottish experience possible.
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