November has officially arrived. The cold and rain have finally hit London, the Christmas lights are stringing themselves up, and Halloween decorations are being swept up and put away. Many may be eagerly looking forward to December for the holiday celebrations, but there’s no need to wish away the month, as there is plenty to enjoy and do in November 2022!
1. Save a bro this Movember
You’ve heard it before, “grow a mo, save a bro”, but it’s (obviously) about much more than just the growing of ‘taches. As a movement it gets men talking about some of the issues that impact so many, that they often can’t or won’t talk about. Money raised throughout the years has gone towards helping organisations working across mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer Fundraising is not restricted to growing a mo’ either, with Movember’s site offering up a whole host of fundraising ideas.
2. Ditch the meat (or eat a bit less of it) for World Vegan Month
Kicking off with World Vegan Day (November 1), World Vegan Month invites consumers to consider the choices they’re making – both with regards to animal cruelty, and with regards to environmental impact. To celebrate World Vegan Day, plant-based restaurant Holy Carrot is offering all diners 20% off the a la carte menu from 12-6 PM. If you fancy giving it a go, we’ve also got guides to the best vegan restaurants and vegetarian eateries in London.
3-6. Commemorate Día de Muertos (November 2)
Not as morbid as its name suggests, Día de Muertos is actually a celebration of life and a remembrance of family members and loved ones. Now it can be tricky to navigate London’s Día de Muertos celebrations – with some venues using it as branding to sell what would otherwise be a regular Halloween party, without recognising the true meaning behind the event. That’s not to say, however, that all Día de Muertos events in London must be avoided. Here are a few that we believe are in keeping with the event’s true meaning and heritage. And look to be a whole lot of fun to boot!
🎉PATRÓN is bringing Día de Muertos to the streets of London with a full on parade from Tanner Street to Soho. You can join the parade itself onboard a London bus, where you’ll raise a toast with a PATRÓN Paloma Roja cocktail while learning more about the celebration and its origin.
🍽️Los Mochis, the home of Baja-Nihon cuisine, found in the heart of Notting Hill, are celebrating their Mexican heritage with an extended celebration around Día de Muertos. Through to November 6, they’ll be hosting spectacular installations, and a whole host of food and cocktail specials. It all revolves around November 2, when they’ll be welcoming a live Mariachi Band as well as a live DJ, giving diners the chance to celebrate Día de Muertos in style.
🌮Corrochio’s Cantina is celebrating their launch with a (slightly delayed) Día de Muertos-themed launch party. The venue, from neighbouring uber-authentic Mexican eatery Corrochio’s, will kick celebrations off with a live mariachi band from 6pm, followed by DJs 8pm-2am. Guests can enjoy Mexican and South American inspired cocktails to, with the first 50 guests able to get their hands on a plate of vampiros (crispy grilled tortillas with a range of toppings including birria beef short rib and plantain mole), while more free bites and finger food will be served throughout the evening.
🥃For a more relaxed affair, head to Mexican-inspired bar, Side Hustle, to sample an array of agave cocktails and classic Mexican dishes. Recently ranked the 75th best bar in the world, in the ’50-100′ longlist for the World’s 50 Best Bars, you’ll be in for a real treat here.
7. Take a trip to Hawkins, and help save the world
There are some TV universes so wholly realized that you wish you could step right into the show. Stranger Things is one of those shows that so deftly straddles world-building with complex characters that you care about, and thrilling events. And you can become one of those characters yourself, at Stranger Things: The Experience. An immersive experience that casts you as the star of an episode is followed by the chance to explore some of Hawkins’ most iconic sights. Book your tickets so you can learn how to channel your powers to save the world, at the site.
8. Check out London’s most festive cocktail bar (from November 14)
Miracle at Henrietta returns once again to London, bringing with it the gaudiest, kitschiest, most tacky affair of a bar you’ve ever laid eyes on. It’s an absolute joy! Sip on drinks like Christmapolitan, made up of vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry sauce, lime, rosemary and an absinthe mist, as well as the Bad Santa and Jingle Balls Nog. Read all about the unique experience here.
9. Get cracking on that great novel idea
November marks the return of the literary world’s most impressive test: NaNoWriMo (or, National Novel Writing Month). Starting as a non-profit in the States, it spread it’s creative writing exercise globally as people took up the challenge. Launching in 1999, NaNoWriMo grew from 21 participants to 455,080 in 2019. And that’s only counting those who officially signed up, with plenty more also taking on the task of finally writing that novel idea they had. You’ll want to get started quick smart as the recommended goal is 50,000 words by the end of the month!
10. Catch Phantom Peak’s Winter Makeover
Phantom Peak is getting festive, with an all new experience comprising of 12 exclusive new trails, a sprinkling of seasonal treats and even a traditional Winter’s grotto. But, as is always the case at Phantom Peak, something lurks beneath the cheery, festive surface. Explore the large-scale, fully-realised town and discover the secrets that lie at the heart of the immersive experience. Join the Phantom Peak Wintermas waitlist to be alerted as soon as tickets drop.
11. Turn a night out into a competitive free-for-all
BOOM BATTLE BAR and Escape Hunt are landing in Oxford Circus with a massive, all-in-one, competitive entertainment and drinking destination that is sure to split friendship groups in two and cause rivalries for years to come. They’ve got Augmented Reality darts, crazier golf, AR axe throwing, shuffleboard, beer pong, karaoke, and five (count them, FIVE) escape rooms, all in one venue🤯. All the while you can munch on snacks from their street food menu, and sip on craft beers, delicious wines, and signature cocktails like the Mango Margarita and the Rose & Lychee Martini. Whether you fancy singing your heart out, venting your frustrations with some axe-throwing (at the target please!), or want to journey to Atlantis, BOOM BATTLE BAR & Escape Hunt have got you sorted. Opening November 26 at Unit 5, 70 – 80 Oxford Street, W1D 1BP.
12. Attend an Italian wine festival (November 3-5)
If there’s a combination of words that we love, it’s any combination of ‘insert alcoholic beverage here’ and ‘festival’. Whether it’s a beer festival, tequila celebration, or what-have-you, we’re gonna get excited about it. So when Eataly announced the return of their wine festival, you bet we knew what we were going to be doing come early November. You get to wander around the gorgeous environs of Eataly, sampling from up to 30 different wines, and you get an adorable little wine-glass pouch! The price of entry is basically worth it just for that wonderful hands-free wine-glass-carrying solution.
13. Become a master Jamón Ibérico carver
Marylebone’s Ibérica is offering up a whole host of educational (and delicious) experiences – perfect gifts for those picky friends of yours, or just for yourself to enjoy! Choose from a ham carving experience, a sherry discovery experience, or a Spanish gin and tonic masterclass experience. With deep dives into hyper-local Spanish cuisine available, you’re sure to become a (very niche) expert in the most delicious way possible!
14. Crepe City London Sneaker Festival (November 6)
Europe’s biggest trainer festival returns to London, and the dreams of sneakerheads are coming true. Bringing over 100 traders showcasing the rarest and most desirable pairs of trainers, you can grab some new kicks, or just marvel at the incredible shoes on display. Live DJs will keep the vibes pumping and the festival will also see competitions, panel discussions, and live performances taking place. With the last two Crepe City festivals selling out, you’ll want to act quick to grab tickets – and your next pair of crepes.
15. Marvel at the Ally Pally Fireworks Festival (November 5)
‘The Glastonbury of fireworks’ will see the grounds of Alexandra Palace taken over by a “night-time, fireworks-watching, food-scoffing, beat-blasting, ice-skating, movie-watching, beer-swilling, festival of epic proportions”. We’re talking bonfires, fire shows, beer festivals, fairground rides, oh, and of course the fireworks, all in one place. Grab your tickets before they’re gone!
16. Celebrate Guy Fawkes/Bonfire Night with a camp twist
If you’re not a fan of fireworks, November 5 can be a pretty raucous offer to contend with. For an alternative way to celebrate, you’ll definitely want to hit up the ‘Gay Fawkes’ Drag Quiz. Alternative way to celebrate, and also on an alternative day (so less of the pesky fireworks noise to drown out the quiz questions!), as it will take place at London’s first fully vegan pub, The Spread Eagle, on November 3. From 8PM you can compete in raunchy trivia and rousing games as you battle for the cash prize – it’s a riotously good time.
17. ‘Ooh’ and ‘aah’ at the Christmas lights around London
It’s not just the most wonderful time of the year, it’s also arguably one of the prettiest, as London best decorations and light shows arrive to take over the nights (and your Instagram feeds). Here are some of the confirmed dates for this year’s Christmas lights:
🛍️Oxford Street (from November 2)
🎉Carnaby Street (from November 8)
🎄Covent Garden (from November 8)
😲Regent Street (from November 9)
🎆Marylebone (from November 10)
🔥Kew Gardens (From November 16)
👑Bond Street (from November 17)
💗Connaught Village (From November 17)
18. Get up close to the Jurassic World dinosaurs
Come eye-to-eye with an Indominous Rex, and marvel at the enormity of the T-Rex (and the relative tininess of their arms!) as you walk amongst the dinosaurs at this experience. But they’ve also got plenty of the more friendly-seeming dinosaurs for you to get up close to – you might even get a chance to pet one. Watch the hands! Grab your tickets for the Jurassic World Exhibition here.
19. Pair natural wines with, erm, hot dogs…?
Beneath the streets of London, you’ll find one of London’s cosiest wine bars, and easily the cutest place to drink in all of Bethnal Green. Cave Cuvée, from the Top Cuvée team, pairs casual service with heaps of wine knowledge, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a proper sommelier, or your knowledge isn’t that grape, Cave Cuvée can sort you with a delicious bit of vino – or a classic cocktail, should you prefer. And to pair with the drinks? They’ve got an assortment of snacky plates, and… hot dogs… which we promise actually do, sorta, kinda, definitely make sense. Having spent over 200 hours going through 82 possible flavour combinations, they reckon they’ve landed on the perfect dog. Come on, you just have to give it a go!
Open 7 days a week, find Cave Cuvée at 250a Bethnal Green Road, E2 0AA.
20. Save a local restaurant
The world’s first Nigerian tapas restaurant, and Tottenham local fave, Chuku’s, recently launched their ‘Six Week Charge‘ campaign in a bid to save their business from having to close. Rave reviews and support haven’t left Chuku’s without their share of difficulties. Sibling duo and co-founders Ifeyinwa and Emeka Frederick are hoping the ‘Six Week Charge’ campaign will net them 600 bookings over the six week charge, in order to get Chuku’s back on track so they can stay open in 2023 and beyond, spreading Nigerian culture to Tottenham and beyond. Show some love for a small business, London, and save a locally-owned restaurant by booking now!
21. Glide along the ice
Regardless of whether you end up hobbling across the ice like a new-born deer, or you glide across it like a penguin (extra points if you’re also on your belly!), there’s something eternally fun about ice skating. It’s one of those few activities that allows adults to lock back into that childish glee they used to feel – before we grew up and became jaded, bitter, things. Or is that just me? Regardless, here’s a few of our favourite rinks that we’re most excited for.
⛸️Glide At Battersea (from November 11 until January 8, 2023)
⛸️Skate at Somerset House (from November 16 until January 15, 2023)
⛸️Hampton Court Palace (from November 17 until January 8, 2023)
⛸️Hyde Park Winter Wonderland (from November 18 until January 2, 2023)
⛸️Queen’s House (from November 18 until January 8, 2023)
22. Delight ALL the senses at a celebration of Black music and culture
LexTempus is the UK’s only full five sensory music experience. This musical time machine transports passengers to the defining eras of Black American music, with live performance and state-of-the-art, immersive technology. A unique night out, you’re sure to get sucked into the experience, with bespoke cocktail in hand, of course. LexTempus is an absolute must-visit for music lovers.
23. Grab a slice from London’s newest pizzerias
There are constantly new pizzerias popping up around London, so we’ve done the definitive guide to the latest and greatest pie places to hit the capital. Whether you’re a sourdough lover, a Neapolitan fanatic, or are all about the toppings, there’s something (new) for you! Find our rundown of the newest pizzerias in London here.
24. Grab some art for those bare walls at the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair (November 3-6)
Along with their online counterpart, the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair forms the largest art fair in Europe, dedicated to collectible print works. Showcasing some of the best contemporary prints in a hybrid exhibition, the fair sees emerging practitioners presented alongside pieces by household names, and they strive to ensure that the environment welcomes aspiring collectors as much as seasoned art world professionals. A great place to pick up something for that blank wall in the hallway that’s been bothering you.
25. Check out Alcotraz’s biggest cocktail-drinking booze-smuggling prison experience yet
We’re all familiar with the Alcotraz experience at this point, one of London’s first immersive drinking experiences. Well, now they’re giving fans a reason to return for even more trips as they triple in size. The new venue will find concurrent storylines happening that will demand repeat visits so you don’t miss anything! By the end of it all, you’ll be an alcohol-smuggling pro.
26. Escape the city at God’s Garden (Opens November 4)
This hidden experiential winter garden set within the grounds of One Marylebone Church will provide an oasis for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Enter the hidden God’s Garden through Floward’s flower shop greenhouse, and find yourself in a world of dramatic foliage, scene-setting Persian rugs, warm yellow lighting, and heaters. That’s an important part – the heaters. Great food and drink await, as well as live and experiential entertainment, making it a must-visit destination. They’ve even got their own version of mulled wine that we can’t wait to try.
27. Grab a massive steak for a brilliant price
The Farrier is doing their best to take steak from weekend treat, to weeknight deal, with their Tomahawk Thursday madness. They’re shaving the restaurant prices off their glorious cuts of meat, and offering them up at market price. From 5 PM onwards, steaks will run from £12 – £45 – and keep in mind the upper end of the price is for steaks that could feed up to four people at once! Not content to stop there, Wednesday’s also see them serving up 2 mains for a measly £20, and their Happy Hour (5-7 PM, from Sunday to Thursday) finds pints for just £4.50, house wines for just £5.50 a glass, and cocktails going in a 2-4-1 deal. No need to splurge when you head to this Camden pub.
28-33. Take advantage of some of London’s best deals
With the holidays looming, mid-term break just now in the rear-view (it can cost so much to keep kids entertained!), and, you know, *gestures at everything* the world, we’re all looking for discounts wherever we can find them. Fortunately there are some great cheap eats in London, and banging deals available.
🍔Fat Hippo, Shoreditch – London’s first Fat Hippo branch is drawing customers in with ‘Hippo Hour’ (from 5 – 6 PM on weekdays): two courses for £15, or three courses for £17.50
🍕Zia Lucia, Canary Wharf – the much-loved pizza brand will be offering 50% off pizzas at their new site from November 1 – 7.
🍽️Marie’s Café, Waterloo – fry-ups by day, Thai food by night – and curry dishes start at just £5.50 for their spicy jungle curry.
🍟Poptata, Various Locations – loaded fries start at just £4 a pop.
🍸The Natural Philosopher, Cambridge Heath – ridiculous Happy Hour deals from 6-8 PM finds classic cocktails at just £7.
🍕Happy Face Pizza, multiple locations – with three locations spread out across London, head to your nearest site for pizzas starting at just £5!
34-41. Enjoy an enchanting candlelight concert
Have a gorgeous, candle-lit date night (or just take yourself out on a solo date!) as you take in these dazzling tributes to the music we all know and love. Ranging from Hans Zimmer to Beyoncé, to Joe Hisaishi, and beyond, there’s something for all musical tastes.
🕯️Candlelight: Hans Zimmer’s Best Works at Central Hall Westminster (November 5)
🕯️Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift at Southwark Cathedral (November 5)
🕯️Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay at St. Mary’s Church (November 18)
🕯️Candlelight: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac (November 19)
🕯️Candlelight: A Tribute to Beyoncé (November 26)
🕯️Candlelight: The Best of Joe Hisaishi (November 26)
🕯️Candlelight: A Tribute to Ludovico Einaudi at Central Hall (November 26)
🕯️Candlelight: A Tribute to Ed Sheeran(November 27)
42. Try out a wholly reimagined, sculptural take on afternoon tea at the Bulgari Hotel
The Bulgari Hotel have collaborated with multi-disciplinary artist Yinka Ilori to bring a sculptural emphasis, and fresh twist, to their luxury Afternoon Tea. It’s like no other Afternoon Tea you’ve ever had, and no detail has been left unconsidered.
43. Catch the Doc’n Roll Film Fest
The Rio Cinema continues to present some of the most exciting and engaging films and film festivals, and the latest to the bat is the Doc’n Roll Film Fest. Described as a “female-led film festival, known for celebrating marginal voices in the music industry whilst championing music subcultures and independent film”, expect incredible music documentaries and Rio’s typically engaging Q&As. The festival runs through until November 8.
44. Head to a riverside Christmas market (from November 15)
Christmas by the River is back at London Bridge City for its eighth year, from Tuesday November 15 through to January 2. Bringing festive cheer right to the centre of London, expect a Christmas market, free outdoor film screenings, choir performances, and local community activations ranging from the lantern parade (with pupils from nearby schools) to charity stalls, and more. There will also be two outdoor, pop-up bars, a must-see Christmas tree in Hay’s Galleria, and an animal-inspired light installation.
45. Scoff Scottish scran at this craft brewery
London’s unofficial Scottish bar, Exale Brewing, time and again proves itself to be one of the places to be on the Blackhorse Beer Mile. As the only location with a late license, there’s no fear you’ll get kicked out just as you’ve started to settle in, and now they’re smashing the food game to boot. Auld Hag have brought their absolutely mad, haggis-focused, menu to the brewery taproom. A core menu is accented by rotating specials inspired by Scotland and beyond. Think haggis tikka masala, Glasgow-style poutine, and more. But the shining star of the show is the McHag: a breakfast muffin filled with square sausage, duck egg, Stornoway black pudding and tattie scone. Oh, and don’t miss the Scottish beef burger with Islay whiskey burger sauce, the Fried Tatties with seaweed salt, or the chicken pakora with “pink sauce”. Find them at Exale Brewing every Thursday – Sunday.
46-58. Jump around at a top London gig
There’s no shortage of brilliant music on offer this month, with international superstars, indie artists you should definitely be checking out, and plenty in between.
🎶Baby Queen (November 1): Heaven
🤘Crawlers (November 2): O2 Academy Islington
🎸The Pretty Reckless (November 5): O2 Academy Brixton
🔥Oliver Tree (November 6): O2 Forum Kentish Town
🎙️Robbie Williams (November 6-7): Royal Albert Hall
🎤Kendrick Lamar: The Big Steppers Tour (November 7-9): The O2
😎MUNA (November 10): Roundhouse
📻Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero Tour 2022 (November 12): Eventim Apollo
🪕Marcus Mumford: (self-titled) (November 15-16): O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire
🧷Ezra Furman (November 17): Roundhouse
🎹Bret McKenzie: “Songs Without Jokes” Tour 2022 (November 20, originally September 26): O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire
🎧Jacob Banks (November 22): O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire
🦵Wet Leg (November 23): O2 Forum Kentish Town
Read about more of the year’s don’t miss gigs here.
59-60. Head to the wintry rooftops
A rooftop might not seem like the most obvious of choices for a wintry meal, or evening out, but the Lucky Club Camden is looking to change that. They’re going all out with their rooftop transformation, turning it into a wintry haven with plenty of fire pits and cosy blankets, where they’ll keep the rooftop party going from summer, all the way through winter. Festive margaritas join the menu, and their taco offering has had some Christmassy additions: Pigs in Blankets tacos anyone?
The Queen of Hoxton is also getting in on the winter rooftop game, with their Après Ski themed Queen Of The Slopes attraction. They’ll have cowhide, gingham, fire pits and ski boots galore, with a specially curated food and drink menu to boot. Definitely grab the poutine while you’re there, as if you weren’t going to already!
61-73. Settle in for a show on the West End and beyond
Is there a better way to spend these cooler evenings than grabbing a ticket for some brilliant theatrical productions?
NEW OPENINGS
🎭Death Drop: Back In The Habit (November 8-20): Garrick Theatre – a drag spin on the classic murder mystery genre sees a serial killer slashing their way through a convent of fabulous nuns.
🎭Best of Enemies (Opens November 14): Noel Coward Theatre – Zachary Quinto stars int the recreation of the nightly televised debates ahead of the 1968 US Presidential elections, which descended into name-calling and personal attacks.
🎭Othello (Opens November 23): National Theatre – Clint Dyer becomes the first person of colour to direct an adaption of the Shakespeare play at the National.
🎭Orlando (Opens November 25): Garrick Theatre – an adaptation of the Virginia Woolf novel that prioritized personal identity over gender roles, starring starring Golden Globe winner Emma Corrin, from The Crown as the gender-defying Orlando
🎭Hex (Opens November 26): National Theatre – the musical re-telling of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale returns to delight Christmas audiences.
🎭Mandela (Opens November 29): Young Vic – recounts the story of a man who changed the course of modern history, made in proud partnership with the Mandela family.
🎭Newsies: The Musical (Opens November 29): Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre – the Broadway smash-hit, set at the turn of the 20th century in New York, finally lands on UK stages.
CLOSING SOON
🎭Tosca – English National Opera (Ends November 4): London Coliseum – an English sung production of one of the world’s most famous operas.
🎭The Crucible (Ends November 5): National Theatre – a powerhouse new staging of the Arthur Miller classic, centred around the Salem witch trials, from director Lyndsey Turner.
🎭Blues for an Alabama Sky (Ends November 5): National Theatre – set in the 1930’s, a group of friends battle to follow their artistic dreams as the Harlem renaissance starts to feel the bite of the Great Depression.
🎭The Boy With Two Hearts (Ends November 12): National Theatre – a family flees from the Taliban, taking refuge in the UK, where their eldest son’s life-threatening condition requires urgent surgery.
🎭Daddy Issues (Ends November 19): Seven Dials Playhouse – join 23-year-old Imi as she ruminates alone on Halloween in this dark comedy.
🎭But I’m A Cheerleader (Ends November 27): Turbine Theatre – a musical stage adaptation of the camp cult-flick about sexual awakening and self-realization.
Read about the rest of the year’s don’t miss shows here.
74.Try out Callooh Callay Chelsea’s all-new cocktail menu
The Chelsea branch of the iconic cocktail bars is giving their menu a full-on overhaul, with their new To Whom it May Concern menu, which reaches into the past for inspiration. The new menu takes the form of a handwritten love-letter, with the team describing the menu as their own love letter to cocktails. New delights include the E-Pisto-Larry, a Rhubarb and Beurre Noisette Negroni, and the Message in a Bottle, which takes the form of a Guava Old Fashioned. You’ll go for one, and end up staying as long as possible to try and sample the whole menu.
75. Head to Hacha Dalston for a takeover from across the pond (November 15-16)
London’s favourite agaveria will be taken over for two days by Aldama, the acclaimed Brooklyn Mexican bar and restaurant, in sponsorship with Cazadores Tequila. A special six drink menu will showcases each bar’s approach to Mexican spirits, with three cocktails from Hacha, and three from Aldama. These will include offerings like the Salted Strawberry Rossini from Hacha, made using Cazadores Blanco, Salted Strawberry Puree, and Vibracions Cava, and the Panamericano from Aldama which will blend up coconut infused Cazadores Blanco, Cocchi Americano, and Dolin Blanc Vermouth. Hope you’re thirsty!
76. Taste the past at this whisky tasting (November 16)
Silverleaf are offering out a hand to guide you through some of their whisky wares, of which they have no inconsiderable amount. They’re offering the chance to sample a range of rare, peaty, and smoky tipples, with an expert by your side to guide you through the line-up. The bar-within-the-bar, Alba, will be playing host to an intimate whisky tasting on November 16 from Scotch whisky brand James Eadie. As part of it you’ll get the chance to try a Blended Scotch whisky recipe from the 19th century. Book your place at the James Eadie Whisky Tasting by heading to the Pan Pacific website.
77-83. Brave the outdoors in a festive winter igloo
Because in classic London form, there’s actually a whole host of choices when it comes to the near-daily question of “which igloo should I dine in this week?” We also included a big ol’ tipi bar in the roundup, because we’re quirky like that.
❄️Coppa Club’s Coppa By The Tower, Tower Bridge (year-round)
❄️Aviary, Finsbury Square (opening October 18th)
❄️The Secret Garden, Kensington (year-round)
❄️Skylight Tobacco Dock, Wapping (open now)
❄️Mercer Roof Terrace, City of London (open now)
❄️Thor’s Tipi at Winter Wonderland(opens November 18)
❄️Fire And Fromage at Jimmy’s, South Bank (opens November 4)
84. Down some Beaujolais at the Big Beaujolais Party (November 17)
Dan’s has developed a dedicated and enthusiastic following in the London wine scene for their utter lack of pretensions, and enthusiasm for absolutely banging bottles of vino. Oh, and all the Australian snacks and bevvies they bring over to the capital. Last month they hosted a wine crawl with People’s Wines and Binch, which saw them wandering around East London sampling some of the best grape-y liquid Dalston had to offer. For their next party, however, they’re keeping bums in seats as they feast on Beaujolais wines and lashings of raclette, courtesy of Jumi Cheese. Tickets are limited to just 50, so act fast! If you miss out, keep an eye on their socials for their next vinous event.
85. Sip cocktail-bar quality drinks in the comfort of your own home
Whitebox Cocktails are making quite the splash when it comes to the home-cocktail-drinking scene. Already famed for their delicious, and adorably sized, Pocket Negroni and Freezer Martini, the brand packs quality ingredients and cocktail expertise from award-winning bartenders into their perfectly portioned, ready-to-serve 100ml cans. Recent months have seen them also launching Squeezy’s Margarita and the Mezcal Margarita, and now they’ve also got the Classic Cosmo on the way. The timeless classic is immediately recognisable thanks to bright citrus notes and a glorious blush-pink hue. You’ll definitely want to pack your fridge with more than a few cans of these for your next at-home cocktail hour.
86. Find a Brighton gallery popping up in London (November 17-27)
Enter Gallery, which has developed a reputation for being Brighton’s leading art gallery for the last 30 years, is popping up in London. Over the course of the 10-day pop-up expect an incredible collection of contemporary art, special launches, private views, and special events with the artists. Find out more about some of the artists and works that will be on display, as well as what the pop-up will entail, at the website.
87. Try out A Cinematic Spectacle for the Senses (November 17)
Woodford Reserve Whiskey is launching an all-new culinary event that pairs up a cinema-going experience with considered food and drinks. At Hoxton’s The Curzon, which will be showing The Menu, starring The Queen’s Gambit’s Anya Taylor-Joy, a perfectly paired tasting menu of small plates and cocktails will surprise guests at different moments throughout the film. Flavours throughout the experience have been inspired by the film to create rich and colourful moments for the senses that highlight the movie-watching experience.
88. Get festive at Winter Wonderland (Opens November 18)
The highlight of the London festive season is back once more for their Hyde Park wonderland. Festive feasts, thrilling rides, mind-blowing performances and more collide at Winter Wonderland. Tickets are already available, so make sure you don’t miss out on your preferred date!
89. Get a start on the World Cup action (kicking off November 20)
Whether you’re hitting up your local, heading to an immersive fan park experience, or seeking out special menus and drink deals, there’s plenty happening in London for World Cup fans. Reckon the boys can follow in the footsteps of the Lionesses at the EUROs and take it all the way? Find out at one of these fan experiences.
🍔Head to Camden’s The Farrier for their Burgers & Buckets menu which will take inspiration from the competing teams for the dishes served.
🎶The 4TheFans London World Cup Fan Park brings top-notch audio and visual tech, live entertainment, and mingling footie stars, all under one roof.
🍻Market Halls‘ Fan Zones and live match screenings will take over the Canary Wharf and Oxford Street venues with Huge HD screens and tabletop beer kegs. Plus, you’ve got an incredibly array of street food vendors to pick from at halftime!
🔥The World Cup perfectly coincides with legendary London BBQ venue, ‘From The Ashes‘ and their three-month residency at the taproom of much-loved London craft brewery Gipsy Hill. Cracking, thirst-quenching, craft beer and fiery, smoky, meat-y delights – the perfect accompaniment to the action!
🍕Pizza Pilgrims will be showing all of the World Cup 2022 England matches (as well as quarter finals, semi finals and the final), and fans can treat themselves to bottomless Neapolitan pizza across six of their sites.
🎉At the BOXPARK World Cup viewings, you already know what to expect: celebrity visits, a raucous atmosphere, and plenty of (hopefully) celebration
🍺Camden Town Brewery’s Camden Beer Hall offers up at least ten viewing screens, 24-taps of fresh beer on draft, and delicious snacks, platters and small plates on offer for a footy feast.
90-97. Try out some of London’s latest restaurants and bars
With too many openings to keep track of, here’s just a sampling of some of our most anticipated new openings in London.
🥟Din Tai Fung, Centre Point – xiao long bao, anyone?
🎉Barrio, Covent Garden – potentially the world’s biggest tequila bar!
🏆Studio Frantzén, in Harrods, Knightsbridge – the first UK restaurant from six Michelin-star chef Björn Frantzén, serving up neo-Nordic concept infused with Asian influences from November 28.
💃Dabbers Social Bingo, Hackney – a modern take on bingo lands in Hackney.
🍸Rails Restaurant & Little Bar, King’s Cross – a double opening offering up modern British classics with subtle French accents, and French-inspired cocktails
🌟Control Room B, Battersea – cocktail bar in the original Battersea Power Station control room, that transports guests to the 1950s
🍹Beetle Juice, Brixton – the VW campervan mobile cocktail bars have parked themselves at their first permanent location, expect classic cocktails with a modern twist.
🍗Dumpling Shack x Sichuan Fry, Hackney Central – the dumpling vendors’ legendary special offering of Sichuan fried chicken sandwiches is winging its way to a permanent location.
98. Try out Tate-inspired beers
Two legends of the British craft beer scene have collaborated with Tate to brew up special beers that will be available in the restaurant and bar spaces within each Tate gallery and via the Tate Shop. Burning Sky have been inspired by The EY Exhibition: Cezanne to create a new pale ale, Victoire, whose unique blend of hops contains aromas of fresh herbs, pines and citrus to transport you to Provence. Meanwhile Drop Project, have collaborated with Tate Coffee to brew up a coffee-forward mild that makes use of their most popular coffee beans. Victoire is already available, having launched at the Tate X Burning Sky Tap Takeover at Tate Modern on October 27. The Drop Project beer will launch at the Tate Coffee X Drop Project Tap Takeover at the Tate Modern on November 24.
99. Go big at the opening of Simmons’ biggest bar yet (November 17)
Simmons are bringing their hyper-affordable nights out to their fifth location of the year, which is also going to be the biggest Simmons bar we’ve ever seen. For now, that is. We’re sure one day they’ll open some kind of theme-park-sized bar that will blow us all away. Head to the first two days of their opening (November 17 – 18), where they’ll be treating guests to a FREE BAR from 6 PM – 8 PM.
100-117. Absorb some culture at an art exhibition
Head to some of your favourite galleries, or maybe discover a new favourite, as you check out these exhibitions opening in November. Also be sure not to miss out on those closing this month!
ART EXHIBITIONS OPENING IN NOVEMBER
❤️Theodore Roussel – ‘Picturing Chelsea’ (November 1-19): Peter Harrington – special exhibition of works that depict many recognisable Chelsea landmarks, created while living in the borough at the turn of the 20th century.
💛Ana Curbelo – ‘Now Draw the Curtain’ (Opens November 2): The Book Club – Curbelo’s award-winning illustrations, when gathered together, trace the artist’s own emotional journey, as much as her journey through artistic styles.
💚 Xavier Spiller-Cameron and Moira Cameron – ‘Titans & Muses’ (Opens November 6): BEERS London – mythological beings are resurrected through works that make use of panels that deconstruct and re-construct old and new pieces.
💙Museum of Unnatural History (November 9): Dray Walk Gallery – a one day experience from Nokia, a futuristic museum reimagines todays ‘e-waste’ as artefacts, akin to relics excavated from historical sites today.
❤️Danny Fox – ‘The sower and other recent paintings’ (Opens November 11): Saatchi Yates at Burlington Arcade – vivid childhood memories recreated through works inspired by great European modernist painters.
🤍Buffer (Opens November 11): Guts Gallery – a group show made up entirely of works from recent graduates of UK arts universities.
💜Making Modernism (Opens November 12): Royal Academy of Arts – exhibiting works from the pioneering women who have been hidden from the history of 20th-centry modernism.
🧡Magdalena Abakanowicz – ‘Every Tangle Of Thread And Rope’ (Opens November 17): Tate Modern – the highlight is the ‘Abakan’s: towering woven sculptures that hang from the ceiling in a forest-like display.
❤️Chinese and British (Opens November 18): The British Library – celebrating the lasting impact of Chinese communities in the UK, through handwritten letters, photographs and oral histories.
💛Lynette Yiadom-boakye – ‘Fly In League With The Night’ (Opens November 24): Tate Britain – portraits of fictitious people drawing from found images and the artist’s own imagination.
💜Injecting Hope: The Race for a COVID-19 Vaccine (Opens November 30): Science Museum – inspiring stories of the global collaborations between scientists and innovators working to find solutions and save lives.
ART EXHIBITIONS CLOSING IN NOVEMBER
💚The Artist Is Present (Ends November 3): GUTS Gallery – group show that finds “intimacy, awareness, sexuality and repulsion [all] tangled together”.
❤️Nokukhanya Langa (Ends November 6): Saatchi Yates – paintings that range across hypnotic multi-coloured spirals and infinite gradients and span sizes and intensities.
🧡Alice Neel: There’s Still Another I See (Ends November 12): Victoria Miro – a collection of paired portraits of the same sitters, revealing physical and character changes in their subjects.
💜Post Vandalism (Ends November 12): OMNI – considering the relationship between public space and the act of destruction, works engage with surface material changes with a bruised, damaged feel.
💚Frieze Sculpture 2022 (Ends November 13): Regent’s Park – London park transformed into an outdoor sculpture gallery exhibiting a whole host of varied works.
💙Rare Hackney (Ends November 15): Two More Years – a photography exhibition from Neil Martinson’s widely acclaimed Hackney Archive, to raise funds for Hackney Foodbank.
💜Klimt – ‘The Immersive Experience (Ends November 27): The Boiler House – step right inside the brushstrokes in this immersive experience.
Read about more of the year’s don’t miss art exhibitions here.
118-120. Join the Americans at a Thanksgiving celebration this side of the pond (November 24)
Sure, it might not actually be relevant to vast swathes of the population in London, but we’ll take any opportunity to get those elasticated waistband trousers on and eat huge quantities of food. And a few places across London are going the whole nine yards with their offerings.
🦃Plaquemine Lock, London’s only Cajun and Creole-inspired pub, is bringing a Southern style celebration to their menu on November 24. They’re promising “a banging line-up of Bayou bites, cocktails as vicious as crocodiles and good old NOLA jazz”. You’ll be able to enjoy dishes ranging from blackened turkey with sausage, red beans and rice, to roast turkey po’boy, pumpkin pie, and more while you sip at classic drinks ranging from the Boulevardier to the Hurricane.
🥃Meanwhile, Wild Turkey is hosting a very special Thanksgiving dinner of their own at their Wild Turkey Diner pop-up at Straker’s. They’ll be serving up delicious Wild Turkey bourbon cocktails and a meal that offers a new take on the traditional Thanksgiving dishes.
🍺Over in Dalston, the Red Hand, one of East London’s favourite craft beer pubs, will be hosting a tap takeover of Texan beers alongside a brand new toastie menu and a showcase of American whiskeys.
121. Head to a late night Latin American-infused party (November 18)
Amazónico’s famed Noche Tardiva, their monthly night of partying and raucousness, hits the Latin American restaurant on November 18th. Expect the venue’s signature ‘electro-pical’, accompanied by live drums and trumpet performances, as the perfect soundtrack to a night of late night dining, table bottle service, and dancing into the early hours. The night of hedonism is matched by Amazónico favourites, such Foie Gras Arepas, Solomillo de Wagyu, and PinÞa Rostizada (Roasted caramel glazed pineapple).
Keep exploring this wonderful city
That’s not all, though, as our staff at Secret London have been busy writing about all kinds of other places in London. Why don’t you check some out, this November?
🎻Live Jazz, Flawless Cocktails, And Thrilling Japanese Food Unite At London’s Most Exciting New Venue
🛼NYC’s Famous Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace Is Skating Into London Next Month
🎨This Art Experience Lets You Walk Through Gorgeous Artwork From Your Favourite Painters
😍Thousands Of White Roses Will Light Up Grosvenor Square In Memory Of Loved Ones
📽️The Sexy London Cinema With Double Beds In It
🖼️This Stunning Palace Of Art Is Hidden Inside A Kensington Townhouse
🌴Dine Among Magnificent Palm Trees At This Lavish Marylebone Hotel
🌮London’s Favourite Tortillas Are Now Available For Home Delivery
🥳The Largest Tequila Bar In The World Is Landing Soon In London
🍽️This Fantastic New Mediterranean-Fusion Restaurant In Mayfair Has Just Swung Open Its Doors
🔥Temper Is Bringing The Heat To East London As They Open Up A Shoreditch Site
🍝This Remarkable Restaurant Will Reignite Your Love Affair With Italian Cuisine
🌽Internet Favourite Eatery Brings Their Viral Korean Corn Dogs To Camden
🥩Rotating Tasting Menus And London’s Best Sunday Roast
🏝️Get A Taste Of Island Life At This All-Day Caribbean Bar-Restaurant
🏙️The Luxury Central London Rooftop Bar With Views Of The Shard
🍗We Visited Casa Do Frango’s New Heddon Street Branch And Here’s What We Thought
More things to do inspiration…
😁 200 fab and FREE things to do in London
📃 100 of the best things to do in London
🙃 All our ideas for unusual places to visit in London
Also published on Medium.