Things To Do In November In the UK 2026
Image Credit: Mike Enerio
In November autumn turns to winter here in the UK. But that doesn't mean that it's just a dull month to get through before the end of year festivities!
There's still lots to see and do, from kid-friendly festivals of science, art and museums. Plus it's the perfect time to get outdoor and see the last of the autumn leaves.
There is so much to do this November across the UK. Whether you like adventure, the theatre, a movie or to get into the great outdoors there is something for everyone.
The first national celebration for November in the UK is Guy Fawkes Night on 5th November. Stay safe and celebrate by going to an organised firework display, which may be any time between the weekend before to the weekend after the 5th.
A slightly more sombre event is Remembrance Day on 11th November when we remember those people lost during wars. Many towns, cities and villages will hold a Remembrance parade or laying of poppy wreaths either on the 11th or Remembrance Sunday which is held on the closest sunday to Remembrance Day.
Welsh Museums Festival will be held from 28th Oct to 5th Nov 2026. Museums in Wales come together in the October Half Term week to celebrate museums and art galleries in Wales. The theme for 2026's event will be to enjoy Halloween in a sustainable way, and to use as many natural resources as possible.
In addition to a range of fantastic events organised by museums themselves, including lots of Halloween activities, many of the locations will be taking part in the Wales History Trails Passport Challenge. Find out more at Welsh Museums Festival
Otley Science Festival will be held from 12th Nov to 14th Nov 2026. A mixture of speakers, films, the Festival Science Cafe and the everpopular Science Fair, perfect for all the family.
Events are held at Otley Courthouse in West Yorkshire. See the complete programme at Otley Science Festival
Movie Time! As the end of the year approaches the movie industry is starting to release some of the biggest films of the year. Here is what's on at the cinema right now.
Children In Need takes place on 13th Nov 2026. The BBC's annual fundraising day which raises moneys for children's charities across the UK, fund local charities and projects who help remove the barriers that are facing children and young people, so that they can thrive.
So grab your Pudsey Bear and help raise some money the kids in the UK. There may be special fundraising events held in your school or workplace. More About Children In Need
Anti Bullying Week will be held from 16th Nov to 20th Nov 2026. A week for learning about the causes of bullying, identifying bullying and encouraging people to speak up against bullying, both children and adults.
Events are mainly held in schools More About Anti-Bullying Week
Kendal Mountain Festival will be held from 19th Nov to 22nd Nov 2026. Kendal Mountain Festival is world's largest outdoor cultural festival filled with stories of adventure, exploration and nature.
With over 200 live sessions, featuring 300+ speakers, screening 150+ films, hosting 10+ parties, 60+ activities and workshops, it is the week of the year to celebrate your love of the mountains. Kendal Mountain Festival
More Things To Do In November 2026
Scotland celebrates it's national day, St. Andrew's Day on 30th November, which is a national holiday (it is moved to the following monday if it falls on a weekend).
The day is marked with celebrations of Scottish culture and with traditional Scottish food and music. The day is also seen as the start of a season of Scottish winter festivals, which also take in Hogmanay and Burns Night. A whole week of celebrations are held in the city of St. Andrews itself.
Even More Ideas For Things To Do in November
- Best UK Christmas Ice Skating Rinks Winter 2026 Yes, some of the UK's temporary Christmas ice rinks open in November in time for half term - check out if there is one near you open yet!
- Visit the Top Aquariums in the UK for an aquatic day out. See Fish, sharks, eels, rays as well as otters and sealions at coastal locations. Here are the best the UK has to offer.
- If you are near London you can check out the Best West End Shows for Kids 2026. See a favourite like Wicked, Matilda or the Lion King or a newer show such as Paddington the Musical .
- For more ideas here are 5 Things to Do in any Town, City or Village and they are all things that you can do for free.