What's On - November 2011

1) Bonfire Night (London-wide celebrations: 4th - 6th November)

In our view, one of the best nights of the year. We've already waxed lyrical about the merits of fireworks and dating, so check out our review here, complete with a full list of the huge selection of fireworks displays that London has to offer this year.

2) London Jazz Festival (Multiple venues: 11th - 20th November)

Including celebrations of the 110th anniversary of Louis Armstrong's birth, this festival brings the finest jazz music from around the world right here to the heart of London. If music be the food of love...

3) Remembrance Day / Sunday (London-wide: 12th - 13th November)

Not your classic dating activity, but for those of you who feel you owe something to the armed forces these solemn but inspirational days of remembrance are important, and there's no reason why you can't share the experience with someone you love, or even just like! There's the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall on Nov 12th and of course the National Service of Remembrance at The Cenotaph on the 13th.

4) Lord Mayor's Show (City of London: 12th November)

Starting with the world's oldest civic march and finishing with a spectacular fireworks display from the middle of the Thames, (between Blackfriars and Waterloo Bridges, 5pm) this event makes a classic London day out. It marks the 'swearing in' of the new Lord Mayor (Mayor of the City of London, rather than Boris Johnson!) who must pledge allegiance to the Crown before he takes up his role, just as Dick Whittington did in 1397. History lovers unite

5) Somerset House Ice Rink (Somerset House: 22rd November - 22nd January)

All hail the return of our this fantabulous outdoor ice rink. There's more on London's outdoor ice rinks in our ice rink feature, but this wonderful, Christmassy and truly magical ice rink is one of our all time favourites.

6) Thanksgiving (24th November)

No need to miss out on the celebration just because we're not American! So get your turkeys and pumpkin pies at the ready and join in the fun. Try The Hard Rock Cafe if you don't feel up to cooking it yourself, or The Reading Room at Claridges for a slightly more sophisticated version.

7) St Andrews Day (30th November)

From America to Scotland, and yet another reason to celebrate! Don a kilt, sporran and dodgy ginger wig for a spot of haggis, neaps and tatties washed down with a Highland Whiskey. Sound appealing?! For a real treat, we love Scottish Restaurant The Boisdale, who'll be sure to concoct something special for the night.