*Jon Snow voice* Winter is coming… and with it comes a whole load of events you just HAVE to put in your calendar. Here’s our roundup of the best things to do in November for when you seriously need a break from the Christmas shopping.
1. Catch a movie in a magical London cinema
Credit: Backyard Cinema
Backyard Cinema are making all of our festive fantasies come to life with their amazing Winterville setup on Clapham Common. Step through the enchanted wardrobe into a mystical woodland (aka fairylight goals) and cosy up to watch Home Alone, Elf, Love Actually, and so many more Christmas classics. Book now for 24th November–10th December.
2. Turn up the volume on Taylor Swift’s Reputation
Credit: Billboard
The old Taylor is dead (apparently), so what does that mean for the pop powerhouse’s next album? Expectation: some juicy Kardashian-West diss tracks. Reality: catchy chart-toppers with a mega dose of Swifty’s newfound sass. Either way, we’ve got our clicking fingers poised over Spotify. Reputation drops on 10th November.
3. Watch a mega firework display in Manchester
Credit: Elisha Terada via Unsplash
Head to Heaton Park in Manchester on 5th November for your major fix of fireworks. This loud, bright and colourful display is completely free to watch, so you can save your pennies for funfair rides and hot chocolates. The display kicks off at 7:30pm, followed by the city’s biggest bonfire.
4. Explore Hogwarts in the snow
Credit: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
If you’re a Harry Potter fan – let’s face it, who isn’t? – you’re gonna have to wingardium leviosa your jaw off the floor when you hear what’s in store at the Warner Bros. Studio tour. From 18th November – 28th January, the movies’ iconic sets are all getting a dusting of snow and a fresh festive look. Expect the Great Hall decked out for the Yule Ball, and the Gryffindor common room laden with cosy Christmas decorations. We can’t cope. Book tickets here before they’re gone.
5. Get your skates on at Bournemouth’s ice rink
Credit: Ice Skate Bournemouth
Glide around this gorgeous rink in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens for all the festive feels from 16th November-2nd January. Perfect for date nights or big groups thanks to weekend DJs, it has its own Moguls bar serving up mulled wine, artisan foods and marshmallow-topped hot chocolates. Plus, if you’re more of a clinging-to-the-sides kinda gal (just us?) you can even hire an Ice Marshall to teach you some moves. Book now.