This Month in London: November Edition
A seasonal guide to savoring the Christmas magic in London
Autumn has always been my favorite season. While spring holds a newfound appeal since moving to London - offering a refreshing respite after a long, dreary winter - each time fall rolls around, I’m reminded of why I love it so much. I love the sense of groundedness after the breezy feelings of summer; that fresh slate feeling like the beginning of a new school year that never quite leaves us. A crisp, sunny day is my ideal type of weather and I love breaking out the cozy knitwear again.
On a more personal note
I welcomed a slower pace at home in London in September and October, truly leaning in to the season. The beginning of October was marked by spending plenty of time outdoors, taking in the fresh air and admiring the foliage in Regents Park and Hampstead Heath. This allowed for more time to read, work from local cafes, experiment with seasonal produce from our weekly farmers market, and explore new spots around the city.
Personal projects saw some progress, fueled by both intrinsic motivation and a renewed energy to pursue the things that feel interesting and right (more to come here!). I’ve also been preparing an Etsy shop for my small business, Maragold, and will be likely adding a couple of new things ahead of the holidays.
On the wellness front, I tried new experiences like a sound bath and somatic flow classes. I also visited a rooftop sauna that I’ve vowed to continue through the winter in an effort to overcome the seasonal blues which hit me hard last year. That, plus a trip to possibly the sauna capital of the world (Finland), and I’m fully on board with sauna culture.
A highlight of October was finally visiting the Barbie exhibition at The Design Museum, which awakened a sense of creativity and playfulness, alongside a heavy dose of nostalgia. I highly recommend if Barbie was also a big part of your childhood!
This nourishing momentum was disrupted in mid-October when a series of illnesses required me to priortize rest. I was reminded, in a different sense, of the importance of listening to my body and honoring its needs.
So with the closing out of October and being already mid way through November, I’ve been reacquainting myself with routine all whilst enjoying the start of the holiday season in London, traveling to Helsinki and Madrid, and preparing for visitors. I will be sharing my favorite spots from my recent travels so keep an eye out here and over on Instagram.
November in London
On to the goings-on this month! Christmastime is one of the most magical times to be in London and it officially kicks off at the beginning of November. Below, I’ve outlined the best spots around the city to take in the holiday atmosphere. Consider this your guide to Christmas in London!
London Christmas Lights
Oxford Street starry light display
Regent Street ‘The Spirit of Christmas’ display
Carnaby Street ‘Into the Light’ display
Covent Garden Christmas tree
Other Christmas Displays in London
Selfridges, Liberty, and Fortnum & Mason
Chelsea, specifically Sloane Square, King’s Road & Duke of York Square
Mayfair, specifically Bond Street & Mount Street
Burlington Arcade
Seven Dials
Leadenhall Market
The Churchill Arms
Events & Festivities
Ice Skating at Somerset House - November 13 - January 12
Try some of the various festive meals, afternoon teas and treats at cafes this time of year! You’ll also find mulled wine and other hot drinks to indulge in at pubs around the city. Pop into any grocery store and you’ll find a fun selection of seasonal goodies to try and/or bring home as gifts.
Seasonal Treats to Try
Mince Pies
Christmas Pudding
Mulled Wine
Mulled Cider
Roasted Chestnuts
Christmas Flavored Baked Goods
Festive Afternoon Teas
I anticipate this to be a work in progress list that I will come back to and update throughout the next couple of weeks. Have I missed anything that you love to do or see in London at Christmastime? Let me know in the comments below!
I hope you enjoyed this update from London and feel inspired to slow down and relish in the season, whatever that looks like for you. If you’re planning to be in London over the next couple of weeks and have any questions, feel free to comment below and I’ll get back to you. If you're not visiting London yourself but know someone who is, please share this post with them!
Cheers & chat soon,
Julianna
I haven’t been, but I feel like Pantomime is a quintessential British Christmas tradition!