Events and things to do in Britain in November
Dark nights? No problem! We've got you covered with firework displays, sizzling bonfires and light trails for all the family.
Our hot pick for November
Britain’s night skies light up with blazing bonfires and sparkling fireworks to celebrate Guy Fawkes Night. This unique British tradition, also known as Guy Fawkes Day, Bonfire Night or Fireworks Night, celebrates the foiling of the infamous Gunpowder Plot – a plan to blow up the Houses of Parliament on 5 November 1605. You’ll find events across Britain, with most towns and cities hosting their own bonfire night celebrations.
What’s on in Britain this November
Here are some of the top events, activities and things to do in Britain in November.
21 October – 1 November 2026: London Literature Festival, England
Dua Lipa will be the guest curator of this year’s London Literature Festival, presented as part of the Southbank Centre’s 75th anniversary year. The singer and bookworm will be hosting a takeover of the Royal Festival Hall on the London festival’s opening weekend, plus a series of events in conjunction with her Service95 Book Club.
23 October – 1 November 2026: River of Light, Liverpool, north-west England
River of Light transforms Liverpool’s waterfront into an illuminated wonderland with stunning large-scale installations. The 2026 edition marks the ninth year of the festival, which is free to attend.
23 October – 20 November 2026: Cumbrian Dark Skies Festival, north-west England
As the autumn nights draw in there’s still so much to see and do, as the Cumbrian Dark Skies Festival shows. Wrap up and embrace all the wonderful outdoors activities that the Lake District National Park has to offer as darkness falls, from night-time canoeing on Coniston Water to swimming in Ullswater.
5 – 22 November 2026: Leeds International Film Festival, Yorkshire, northern England
One of the largest film events in the UK, Leeds International Film Festival presents an incredible selection of the best new and classic films from around the world. Each year, audiences are invited to step in from the cold autumn weather and enjoy the power of cinema at some of Leeds’ favourite venues, including the Hyde Park Picture House and Everyman Leeds.
5 – 8 November 2026: Denholm Folk Festival, Scottish Borders
Held in the pretty village of Denholm, this annual autumn festival celebrates all things folk music. Featuring critically acclaimed bands and new talents alike, its four-day programme takes over pubs and venues throughout the area – promising intimate gigs and a great atmosphere. The likes of Maurice Dickson and Elbow Jane have performed in the past, bringing together folk music lovers from all over the country.
7 – 8 November 2026: Damnation Festival, Manchester, north-west England
See your favourite acts at this extreme metal festival, which has moved from its Leeds venue to Manchester – and taken its loyal fans with it, for sell-out events. Check out the website for the next festival’s line-up.
7 November 2026 – 10 January 2027: Longleat Festival of Light, Wiltshire, south-west England
This outdoor light festival boasts hundreds of illuminated characters and scenes that transform the estate into a winter wonderland, with each year boasting a new theme. This year is all about myths, legends and folklore – think the Lost City of Atlantis, dragons, giants and more.
9 – 15 November 2026: Thought Bubble, Yorkshire, northern England
Join in with the celebration at the UK’s biggest comic art festival, Thought Bubble, in Yorkshire. Start the celebration at the launch party in Leeds and check out the festival’s many events across Yorkshire through the week. Then head to Harrogate for the weekend convention and take part in the parade and party, hear your comic icons speak and sign your kids up for some comic-creating workshops in this entertaining festival.
12 – 15 November 2026: Atlantic Sessions, Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
Taking over the pubs, hotels and venues of Portrush, Portstewart and Portballintrae on the Causeway Coast, this November music festival presents a wonderfully diverse range of gigs: from folk groups and rock bands, to soul singers and classical quartets. Most of the concerts are free, and the Music Trail features over 30 different performances. Expect great music, a friendly atmosphere, and some fantastic local food and drink too.
13 November 2026 – 3 January 2027: Christmas at Kew, London, England
Get into the spirit of Christmas against the picturesque background of Kew Gardens in London, which delivers a sparkling after-dark experience and a truly festive atmosphere every year. Previous highlights include a Fire Garden, towering fairy-lit trees and the spellbinding Palm House light display.
13 – 22 November 2026: London Jazz Festival, London, England
London Jazz Festival hosts world-class artists and emerging stars, packed into back-to-back concerts, workshops, talks, masterclasses and free events across London. A number of key events will take place at the Southbank Centre.
19 – 22 November 2026: Kendal Mountain Festival, Cumbria, north-west England
The world’s biggest mountain festival is a celebration of film, outdoor sports, literature, art and legends that hopes to inspire people to explore and enjoy mountains and the wilderness. The Mountain Film Competition is a main feature of the event, with entries competing to be the grand prize winner.
19 November 2026 – 3 January 2027: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London, England
A true family favourite, Winter Wonderland returns to London’s Hyde Park with big top shows, the observation wheel and a huge Christmas market. As well as the ice rink, Winter Wonderland includes gentle rides for younger children.
Other events and things to do in Britain throughout November 2026
Christmas markets in Britain
It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year, and our festive markets are coming back out of hibernation. Many of Britain’s Christmas markets open in November, especially our bigger events, so why not get into the festive spirit with a spot of shopping? Among the Christmas markets in Britain opening in November 2026 are Leeds Christmas Market, Edinburgh Christmas Market and Bath Christmas Market.
Light trails in Britain
During autumn and winter in Britain, you’re never far from a light trail. At Chester Zoo’s Lanterns & Light event, some of the zoos’ residents are brought to life as incredible illuminated puppets. Be wowed by the sound and light displays at Pitlochry’s Enchanted Forest, marking its 25th anniversary in 2026. And discover one of Wales’ largest light trail at Margam Country Park and Castle, with a mile of installations to admire.
St Andrew’s Day in Scotland
Marked on 30 November every year, St Andrew’s Day is an official bank holiday in Scotland. In the past, celebrations have included some of Scotland’s historic attractions offering free entry for the day. Join in the fun with the Big Hoolie in St Andrews on 28 November 2026 – think torchlit parades, fireworks and ceilidhs.
Bucket-list places to experience in Britain this November
Top events in Britain in 2026
FAQs
There are Bonfire Night and fireworks displays held across Britain on and around 5 November. One of the biggest organised displays is at London’s Alexandra Palace, held on 7 and 8 November 2026. Scotland’s largest bonfire and fireworks event is the Fawkes Festival, held at the Royal Highland Centre. Experience one of Wales’ biggest bonfire night events at Cardiff’s Cooper’s Field, with food stalls and rides adding to the festive atmosphere.
The Christmas lights in central London – for example, Oxford Street, Carnaby Street and Covent Garden – normally get switched on in early November. The Trafalgar Square Christmas light switch-on normally happens a bit later, on the first Thursday of December.
If you’ve noticed a red poppy pinned to someone’s chest in Britain in November, chances are it’s a remembrance poppy worn to commemorate those who’ve died in war and support those serving in the Armed Forces today. The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal has supported Britain’s Armed Forces community since 1921, and you can pick up one of their poppy pins online or from volunteer collectors in towns and cities around Britain.
