What’s On in London – November

Falling this year on Thursday 28th November, the American celebration of Thanksgiving is the perfect excuse to catch up with friends and family whilst eating delicious food. Get stuck in this year by visiting one of the many restaurants across the city offering the classic feast of turkey and all the trimmings. If you have more of a sweet tooth, head down to 108 Brasserie in Marylebone for a brilliant spread of puddings in their Pie Room, including classics like Pumpkin, Pecan and Mississippi mud pie.

Taking place every year on the 5th November, the classic British celebration of Bonfire Night is not one to miss. Recognised as some of the best in the country, expect an evening full of mesmerising fireworks, flaming bonfires and plenty of entertainment fir for the whole family. Nearby, Battersea Park is hosting their annual firework display which is guaranteed to be a night to remember. Further afield, Richmond is an excellent option, full of dazzling displays, funfair rides and plenty of food and drink options.

Located just on our doorstep in Hyde Park, is one of London’s most beloved Christmas markets. Returning this month, from the 21st November, discover the magic of Winter Wonderland, with a number of thrilling fairground rides and rollercoasters like Munich Looping and Ice Mountain as well as family-friendly attractions like Justin’s Christmas Singalong and Zippos Christmas Circus. If the crowds are a little too much, enjoy the mesmerising lights of the fair from one of our beautiful suites at The Hari, with 360 views of London.

1936 Children’s novel Ballet Shoes, written by Noel Streatfeild is finally coming to the West End, at no place other than the National Theatre. The family-friendly Christmas play will follow the lives of three adopted sisters who are left in the hands of their guardian and some unlikely lodgers after their palaeontologist father fails to come home after a business trip. Directed by Kathy Rudd, the sisters have to learn to forge a future in an uncertain world, whilst also keeping their family together, with the unlikely help of ballet.

Conveniently located just around the corner on the beautiful Pont Street, British Luxury brand, Anya Hindmarch has opened their newest concept store, Anya’s Christmas Grotto. Doubling as a festive gift shop, full of lavish stocking fillers and also a Christmas Grotto where children have the exciting chance to meet Father Christmas, this is definitely not one to miss! If you haven’t managed to secure tickets for the grotto quite yet, The Hari have a handful of tickets left, but be quick, as they are first come, first serve!

Taking place on Sunday 17th November, Belgravia’s beautiful Elizabeth Street will be switching on their Christmas lights during their annual Switch-On Party. In addition to the twinkling lights, little ones can even spot roaming characters from the Nutcracker, as well as meet the Snowman, Father Christmas, his Elves and even a live reindeer. The adults can get stuck in too thanks to the wonderful Fulham Brass Band, and pop-up Christmas Market in Eccleston Yards, serving up festive treats.

Situated inside the beautiful Royal Academy of Arts, discover the work of the three titans of the Italian Renaissance in the big Autumn exhibition, Michelangelo, Leonardo and Raphael. Inspired by the rivalry between Michelangelo and Leonardo, and they both had on young Raphael, the exhibition takes a deep dive into the beautiful works of Italian Renaissance drawing, including Michelangelo’s celebrated Taddei Tondo and Leonardo’s Burlington House Cartoon.

The London East Asia Film Festival is back again this year, bringing with it a momentous stack of critically acclaimed films from all across the region, including films from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and many, many more. Expect to see a mixture of thrillers, dramas and supernatural comedies, all celebrating the rich culture of East Asian cinema.