What's on in November

This month there are plenty of things to do from getting involved in historical events to world-class music and sport. If you want to get outdoors and see all the autumnal colours, take a look at our picks for best autumn walks, top Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, best National Parks, and free walking tours in London. Want to stay over a bit longer? Then check out our top picks for woodland retreats and wellness retreats. Looking for something else to do this November? Here are the best things happening across our network this November.

World Vegan Day

1 November

Finding a vegan restaurant just a few years ago may have seemed a real challenge – but now, the options are limitless! With more and more people opting for an environmentally kinder, plant-based diet, we have rounded up the best vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants in London perfect for World Vegan day, all of which are easy to get to using the South Western Railway network.

Día de Muertos

1-2 November

Not to be confused with Halloween, Día de Muertos (also known as Day of the Dead) is a Mexican holiday dating back 3,000 years. The two days are for family members who have passed away as they get to visit the land of the living and reunite with loved ones for the day. Rather than being a sad day, it is celebration filled with music, food, dancing, and stunning decorations to welcome back their dearly departed The 1 November is dedicated to children who have passed away, while the 2 November is dedicated to adults who have passed away.

If you would like to join in the celebrations, why not visit one of these places for the best Mexican food in London. And to get you in the festive spirit after, on 11 November The Lucky Club Camden will be transformed as they open their Winter Rooftop Garden.

Bonfire night

5 November

Remember, remember the fifth of November...and with so many incredible places to celebrate bonfire night, you won’t be forgetting this date any time soon! From small-scale firework displays to enormous festivities and centuries-old traditions, this 500-year-old tradition is celebrated far and wide in all manner of ways.

Make this bonfire night an unforgettable one with one of these spectacular bonfire night displays in London and the South West. So whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a family activity or a fun way to celebrate with your friends, you have loads of options to choose from.

London Jazz Festival

11-20 November

Celebrating it’s 30th anniversary this year, the London Jazz Festival is bigger and better than ever before with 2,000 artists on its line-up. With events and gigs happening across 70 iconic London live music venues such as the Jazz Café, South Bank, Ronnie Scott’s, and KOKO, book your tickets now to avoid disappointment whether you’re looking for up-and-coming artists or prefer your jazz legends. This will be a spectacular week that will blow away those November blues…

The Lord Mayor’s Show, London

12 November

The Lord Mayor’s Show is over 800 years old, making it one of the oldest civic parades in the world. More than 6,000 people take part in the procession, with everything from floats and inflatables to marching bands and military detachments.

Alderman Nicholas Lyons – the new Lord Mayor of London – will be taken by state carriage to swear his loyalty to the crown at Westminster in a centuries-old tradition. The procession heads off at 11:00, but unless you’ve booked grandstand seats (which we recommend), we suggest getting trains to London at least 45 minutes early for a good view from the roadside.

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

20 November – 18 December

Wondering where to watch the 2022 World Cup in London? Featuring all the world’s best football teams, this huge sporting event brings together fans as their countries compete for the winning title and cup. This year, the World Cup is being held in Qatar over winter. But fear not, as there’s still no shortage of bars showing the World Cup live games! Here are some of the best places to watch the World Cup 2022 in London. Plus, when you buy your rail tickets online with us, our SWR Rewards scheme could help you get a round in for next to nothing with discounts on food and drink.

Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday

24-28 November

While not officially a holiday in the UK, Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday now mark the start of the festive season. For Thanksgiving in London, we recommend booking American institutions such as the Hard Rock Café or Smith & Wollensky who put on special menus for the weekend so you can celebrate with your loved ones. Didn’t get to book in time? Don’t worry as you can get 20% off at Hard Rock Café and 10% off at Smith & Wollensky thanks to SWR Rewards.

If you’re looking to save money on presents (whether for yourself or family and friends), then Black Friday and Cyber Monday are a great time to shop till you drop in some of the South West’s best shopping centres.

We can help you spread your wings on a shoestring this autumn with great-value train tickets when you buy direct on our website or app.