November fun with your little Londoners
The days are officially starting to get shorter and the nights are longer. Colder days are descending upon us and we’ll be back to complaining about the sun setting at 4pm. But there’s no need to be glum, don’t let November cold stop you and your little ones from having fun! Cheer up because this month marks the beginning of the holiday season and from mid-November London will start to feel festive. Fireworks will take over the London skies and the streets will be shining with Christmas lights.
If you're prepared for a joyous start to the next winter months, read on for our list of exciting activities to do in London this November with your little Londoners!
Skating rinks
Want a magical winter experience? Go to one of the spectacular ice rinks in the capital. Glide along the ice in the iconic Somerset House, Queen’s House ice rink, Hampton Court Palace or the biggest outdoor ice rink in the UK at Winter Wonderland. Skate aids will be available for your little ones but be advised that most locations will only have a few of these available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bonfire night firework
Mark your calendars because like every year, the majestic fireworks will take over the city skies on or around the 5th of November. Some good locations for the magical fireworks display are Battersea Park, Wimbledon Park, Alexandra Palace and Morden Park. The earlier display at Morden Park features a Disney music theme aimed at families.
Christmas lights
London’s twinkling Christmas light displays are truly mesmerising. Most lights switch on around mid-November to illuminate the capital’s streets during long winter nights. The most popular destinations are Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, Covent Garden, Marylebone, Bond Street, and Kew Gardens. To see the major West End lights just hop on bus 139 outside selfridges. The best views will be the front seats on the top deck so it’s recommended to avoid rush hour to successfully secure those seats. Now you’ll be able to see the LED stars and gawk at the Regent Street angels when the bus takes a right turn. Your bus will pass Trafalgar Square then head towards Strand where you’ll be able to see the Northbank lights. You can get off at Southampton Street to finish your tour of the holiday lights and then stroll over to Covent Garden to have a bite to eat with the kids at one of the numerous restaurants there.
Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is more than just a holiday market. With loads of entertainment and fun rides, rest assured that your munchkin will not get bored. Have a go at one of the fairground games and win (fingers crossed) a teddy for your little one! Go on the giant ferris wheel, attend a circus show, be a guest at Santa’s House or go on the merry go round.
To prevent disappointment and to save your kids from feeling overwhelmed, reserve your entry tickets in advance because most places no longer have a free entry so make sure to check their websites and avoid going on weekends. Keep some cash on hand as well because some vendors only accept cash. Think you won’t have the time to take your kids around during the week? Book a CocoRio sitter and we promise your children will be in safe hands.