Giles Guide: November Nights & Festive Delights in London
Ready to embrace the magic of London as autumn gives way to winter? November in the capital is a spectacular time, with the city coming alive through dazzling light displays, theatrical masterpieces, and cultural celebrations that warm even the chilliest of evenings. From historic processions to cutting-edge exhibitions, we've rounded up the most exciting events that will make your November stay at St Giles London Hotel truly unforgettable. Let's explore what's lighting up London this month!
Historic Celebrations
The Lord Mayor's Show
Step into a living piece of London history at the Lord Mayor's Show! This magnificent 800-year-old tradition has evolved into London's largest free outdoor pageant. Watch as over 6,500 people, 200 horses, and 250 vehicles parade through the city's streets in a spectacular display of British pomp and ceremony. From marching bands to elaborate floats, this three-mile-long procession is a feast for the eyes.
When: 9th November 2024
Time: 11.00-14.30
Location: City of London (from Mansion House to the Royal Courts)
Price: Free to watch
Top Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the route, particularly near St Paul's Cathedral or Mansion House
Must-See Exhibitions
Zanele Muholi at Tate Modern
Immerse yourself in one of the most powerful photographic exhibitions of the year. Zanele Muholi's work presents an unflinching exploration of identity, politics, and human rights through the lens of South African LGBTQIA+ experiences. This comprehensive exhibition features over 260 photographs that challenge, inspire, and transform our understanding of contemporary photography.
Location: Tate Modern, Bankside, London SE1 9TG
Dates: Running until 26th January 2025
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 10:00-18:00, Friday to Saturday 10:00-22:00
Price: £16 for adults, free for members
Book: Tate Modern Website
Metalworking Now at V&A Museum
Step into the fascinating world of contemporary metalwork at this unique exhibition. The V&A showcases the innovative techniques and stunning creations of today's most talented metalsmiths, demonstrating how this ancient craft continues to evolve in the modern age. From delicate jewellery to bold sculptural pieces, discover how artists are pushing the boundaries of this timeless medium.
Location: Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL
Dates: Until 31st December 2024
Hours: 10.00-17.45 daily (Friday until 22.00)
Price: Free admission
Website: V&A Museum
PULSE: Hello Delight
Dive into the vibrant urban culture of Seoul through this immersive exhibition featuring 12 interactive rooms filled with stunning art and light installations. This unique experience brings the energy and creativity of South Korea's capital to the heart of London, offering visitors a chance to engage with cutting-edge digital art in new and exciting ways.
Location: Central London (check website for exact location)
Dates: Until 30th December 2024
Hours: Various time slots available
Price: From £19.50
Top Tip: Book evening slots for the most atmospheric experience
Michelangelo, Leonardo and Raphael at the Royal Academy of Arts
Experience the Renaissance like never before in this groundbreaking exhibition bringing together the works of three artistic titans. This extraordinary showcase presents rarely-seen drawings and studies alongside finished masterpieces, offering unique insights into the creative processes of these legendary artists.
Location: Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD
Dates: 9th November 2024 – 16th February 2025
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10.00-18.00 (Last entry 17.30)
Price: £22-£27 for adults, free for members
Book: Royal Academy Website
Black Cultural Archives: Black Futures Month
Celebrate and explore the rich history and future of Black British culture at this thought-provoking exhibition. The Black Cultural Archives presents "Reclaiming Narratives," a powerful showcase featuring partnerships with creative agencies and exclusive film previews, including the award-winning documentary "Dahomey."
Location: Black Cultural Archives, 1 Windrush Square, Brixton, London SW2 1EF
Dates: Until 30th November 2024
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10.00-18.00
Price: Free admission (some events may be ticketed)
Website: Black Cultural Archives
Vogue: Inventing the Runway at Lightroom
Experience fashion history in a whole new light at this innovative exhibition celebrating the iconic magazine. Through cutting-edge technology and immersive displays, witness the evolution of fashion photography and the cultural impact of Vogue magazine.
Location: Lightroom, King's Cross, London
Dates: 13th November 2024 – 26th April 2025
Price: From £25
Website: Vogue: Inventing the Runway
Top Tip: Book weekday morning slots for smaller crowds
Literary Celebrations
St Andrew's Book Festival
Celebrate Scottish literature and culture at this inaugural literary festival in London. Bringing together bestselling authors and emerging voices, this week-long celebration offers an intimate look at Scotland's rich literary landscape through readings, discussions, and family-friendly events.
Dates: 25th November – 1st December 2024
Locations: St Columba's Church, Scotland House, and The Caledonian Club
Price: Various prices per event
Top Tip: Check the festival website for the full programme of events and early bird ticket offers
Theatre Spectacular
All's Well That Ends Well at Shakespeare's Globe
Step into the magical atmosphere of London's only candlelit theatre for Shakespeare's twisted tale of obsession, game-playing, and deception. Making her Globe directorial debut, Chelsea Walker brings fresh perspective to this rarely performed exploration of class, sexuality, and gender. This intimate production promises to showcase Shakespeare's work in its most authentic setting.
Location: Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Shakespeare's Globe, 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT
Dates: 8th November 2024 – 4th January 2025
Prices:
- Seated tickets: £25-£75
- Standing: £10 (adults), £5 (concessions) Content Advisory: Contains scenes of sexual assault and physical violence, and themes of classism, misogyny, and homophobia
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
The magic of Christmas returns to The Old Vic with Matthew Warchus' Tony Award-winning production of this timeless Dickensian tale. This beloved adaptation fills the historic auditorium with festive cheer, mince pies, and enchanting music. With its unique immersive staging, this heartwarming production promises to get even the most determined Scrooge into the Christmas spirit!
Location: The Old Vic Theatre, The Cut, London SE1 8NB
Dates: 11th November 2024 – 6th January 2025
Age Guidance: 8+
Prices:
- £10 Preview performances (11-16 November)
- Regular performances: £13-£90 (varies by peak/off-peak)
- Premium seats and Old Vic Plus tickets available
The Producers at the Menier Chocolate Factory
Get ready for outrageous comedy as Mel Brooks' Tony Award-winning musical makes its triumphant return to London! This highly anticipated revival brings together the brilliant creative minds of Tony Award-winning director Patrick Marber and Broadway choreographer Lorin Latarro for what promises to be the theatrical event of the winter season.
Location: Menier Chocolate Factory, 53 Southwark Street, London SE1 1RU
Dates: 26 November 2024 - 1 March 2025
Performance Schedule:
- Previews (26 November - 7 December): Monday to Saturday at 19.30, Saturday matinees at 15.00
- Main Run (from 11 December): Tuesday to Saturday at 19.30, Saturday & Sunday matinees at 15.00
- Note: No performance on 15 December
Prices:
- Standard tickets: £70.25
- Premier seating: £75.25
- Access & Concessions: £45.75
Christmas Lights Switch-On Events
Watch London transform into a winter wonderland as the city's most famous streets light up for the festive season. Each switch-on event features its own unique celebration with music, performances, and special guests.
Key Dates:
- Oxford Street: 5 November
- Regent Street & Carnaby Street: 7 November
- Kew Gardens, Spitalfields & Marylebone: 13 November
- Leadenhall Market: 14 November
- Belgravia: 17 November
Top Tip: Most switch-on events happen between 17.00 and 19.00. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and enjoy the pre-show entertainment!
Looking to make the most of your November stay in London? Our friendly team at St Giles London Hotel is always happy to help you plan your perfect itinerary and make bookings for any of these fantastic events. Simply pop by the reception desk, and we'll ensure you don't miss out on any of the capital's November magic!