Weather in London in November

“Remember, remember, the fifth of November” says the old rhyme about the Guy Fawkes treason plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London. Each year in London in November fireworks displays and bonfire nights celebrate the event and people enthusiastically participate in an effort to combat the onslaught of wintry weather. You will also see many people wearing red poppies on their lapels, for November brings Remembrance Day, honouring those who died in the two World Wars. Temperatures may be falling in November, but spirits are warm in the chilly approach to the Christmas season.

 

Climate in London in November

November is usually the wettest month of the year in London, with a preponderance of grey skies and an average of 15 rainy days during the month. Temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C, and the almost constant drizzle makes it unpleasant to be out of doors.

 

What’s on in London in November

It may not be the ideal weather for being outside, but it is worth wrapping up warm and making the effort to be a spectator at the Lord Mayor’s Show on the second Saturday of November. The investiture of the new Lord Mayor takes the form of a three-mile long procession, ending with a fantastic fireworks display on the Thames. Other important spectacles in London in November are the Remembrance Service at the Cenotaph in Whitehall and the switching on of the Christmas illuminations in Oxford and Regent Streets.

 

What to pack for a holiday in London in November

Make sure you have a good, waterproof overcoat and boots for outdoors in London in November, and some comfortable layers to wear underneath so you can strip off when indoors. A woolly hat, scarf and gloves are welcome if you plan to spend time watching fireworks and festivals from the river bank on dark evenings.