15 unmissable things to do in London in November 2024

Whenever I consider adopting a plant-based diet, it's always the thought of missing my favourite foods and experiencing elevated cuisines that makes me second guess myself, but restaurants like Mallow are proving that nothing is missing from sustainable, seasonal vegan food. 

Located in the heart of Borough Market (with another branch in Canary Wharf), this lofty, light-filled restaurant boasts an entirely plant-based menu. When I dined on a Thursday evening, the restaurant was full by 7 PM, each table full with buzzy chatter and an undercurrent of soothing jazz trills to complement its elevated atmosphere. 

The food at Mallow is nothing short of exceptional. If you're vegan, it's a total delight to know every single item on the menu is entirely cruelty-free. If you're not vegan, each dish is so delicious you'll start to wonder why 'normal' restaurants have got so lazy with their vegetarian dishes. 

The seasonal menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients, crafted into creative small plates perfect for sharing. Standout dishes include the sweet potato pepper mojo—rich, flavorful, and indulgent—and the ohn no khao swe: caramelised onion coconut cream, shan tofu, noodles, sweet potato, leek, holy basil, which balance sweetness and spice perfectly.

The dessert selection is just as inventive, with a chocolate ganache that is velvety and not overly sweet. Friendly staff add to the warmth of the experience, providing knowledgeable recommendations and attentive service. 

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

If you love the sound of Mallow, sister restaurant Mildreds has given its iconic Soho site a fresh new look. 

Londoners will be familiar with the cosy (but often cramped) former restaurant in Lexington Street, which was often recognised by its queue that wrapped around the block on weekends. 

The new design of the iconic Mildreds townhouse has created more space as well as a second floor 18-seater private dining area and event space.

Farm to fork food might feel impossible to find in London, but thanks to culinary innovators at Farmer J, fresh, seasonal, organic and preservative-free food is finally just a fork away. 

I've long been a fan of Farmer J's epic field trays; think flavoursome protein, zesty salads, herby carbs and vibrant veggies. Despite their popularity in the city, I'll always brave the queue to pick up a midday meal on work days. Weekends tend to be quieter, making their lofty, light-filled restaurants the perfect place to enjoy a coffee and sweet treat - the matcha and white chocolate cookie is always a must.

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

Berners Tavern is both charming and stylish and feels like an exclusive establishment without the snobbery. The staff couldn't be more welcoming and the menu has everything you would want from a quintessential British restaurant in the heart of London. 

I had the pleasure of going there when I was back in the UK recently, and coming from New York City, it ticked all the boxes of everything I miss about the capital. 

The new autumn menu has all the classics including fish and chips, prawn cocktail, and a pork and pistachio pie, as well as a range of different salads and veggie options with seasonal ingredients - I highly recommend the organic spelt artichoke risotto. The sides are a must too - don't leave without trying their famous truffle mashed potato - nobody does potatoes as well as the Brits - and their iconic mac and cheese. 

Luckily, this comes as a side and a main, depending how hungry you are. The open-plan dining area has high ceilings and walls adorned with framed oil paintings, and there's also a more informal lobby area close to the bar, which is ideal for stopping by for an after work drink, or an after dinner cocktail. 

Along with an impressive wine list - and a knowledge sommelier on-site to help you decide on your choice - there's also an extensive cocktail list. What's more, there's even a zero alcohol option called the Faux Pas - with Everleaf Marine, cucumber, basil, rhubarb tonic, you won't feel you're missing out, especially in such a beautiful setting. 

Reviewed by Hanna Fillingham, Managing Editor for HELLO! US

The Churchill has introduced a new afternoon tea experience at The Montagu Kitchen that takes guests on a flavorful journey through Central and South America. With a nod to the diverse backgrounds of the culinary team and Winston Churchill's own travels, this afternoon tea feels like an international escape in the heart of Marylebone.

Kicking off with a symbolic boarding pass, a refreshing washcloth, and a welcome drink, the experience sets a unique tone, blending elegance with a spirit of adventure.

The menu, crafted by Executive Chef Carlo Martino and Head Pastry Chef Mathieu Dias Fernandes, includes savoury bites like the Mexican Beans Taco and my personal favourite, the Vinaigrette Beef Sandwich. This sandwich, with its perfectly balanced vinaigrette, was both comforting and surprising—a true standout.

For sweets, everything arrives in a beautifully crafted luggage box, with flavours like Coconut and Pineapple, and Chocolate with Dulce de Leche. Even the classic scones get a twist, served with a tropical pineapple and lime jam alongside the usual strawberry jam and cream. The tea selection includes "The Montagu Bloom," a blend that transports with hints of marigold and mango.

Available Thursday to Saturday from £65 per person, it’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon, whether you're a Londoner or a traveller looking for something refreshingly different.

To book, visit www.hyattrestaurants.com

Reviewed by Rafael Rubio, Global Director of Audience Development

Elevate your Sunday brunch game at Seabird, a glorious rooftop restaurant on the 14th floor of The Hoxton, Southwark.

 If you love the stunning crustacean, this one's for you. Enjoy some incredible, mouthwatering lobster dishes with drinks from ST~GERMAIN, the perfect collaboration of seafood and cocktails. 

 As a huge fan of lobster and of course, sumptuous alcoholic cocktails, this was the ideal brunch spot for my bestie and I. 

We headed up to the top of the restaurant, and were greeted with the most dazzling set up. The decor was beautiful; you can see all of London as you tuck in and there was so much to choose from within the specially curated lobster menu. 

Lobster tartare and Lobster tortilla were my favourites, washed down with crafted cocktails. We loved the St Germain Hugo Spritz, and the hugely fun Festive Spritz, perfect for Yuletide season. There's even a fabulous non-alcoholic Vibrante Spritz if you're going teetotal.

 Lobster Sundays at Seabird will take place every Sunday until 24 November. 

Reviewed by Laura Sutcliffe, Fashion and Beauty News Editor

Get into the festive spirit with a delightful meal at The Ivy Collection. From 13th November, the restaurants - which are situated all over the UK - will be inviting guests to step into a magical Alpine winter wonderland.

The festive menus on offer include delectable seasonal selections for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as set menus. Starting from £55 for two courses, the festive set menu heroes traditional Christmas dishes - but with a fun twist. Think turkey ballotine served with pork and apricot stuffing (I’m drooling just thinking about consuming this again!), fan-favourite pigs in blankets, flavoursome parsley and sprout mash, indulgent stilton and walnut cheese soufflé and a rich truffle sauce.

If you’re a dessert lover like me, you’ll relish every mouthful of the classic flambéed Christmas pudding, and the almond mince pies, served warm and with an indulgent brandy cream.

Reviewed by Arianna Chatzidakis, Creative Content Director

The stunning new location of the iconic Soho restaurant, where late-night vibes, great music, and mouthwatering Aegean cuisine come together for an unforgettable experience.

If you're a fan of fresh fish and vibrant flavors, this place is an absolute must-try. From raw fish to classic Greek starters and indulgent dishes, there’s something here to impress every palate.

My husband and I popped in for a dinner date and were immediately swept away by the atmosphere. The sleek, modern space paired with an in-house DJ spinning tunes set the perfect tone for the night.

I highly recommend trying the Saganaki—crispy, golden cheese that practically melts in your mouth. Their seabass ceviche was a showstopper, very fresh and full of flavour. And don’t miss out on their signature spreads and freshly made bread—the perfect addition to any meal.

The cocktails are just as impressive, with expertly crafted drinks that pair seamlessly with the Mediterranean-inspired menu. The vibe is electric, making it an excellent spot to unwind, dance a little, and indulge in some top-notch food.

 Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or a lively evening out with your friends, Hovarda Canary Wharf is the place to be.

Visit here for reservations.

Reviewed by Andrea Alvarado, Senior Digital Marketing Executive

Christmas shopping season is in full swing (especially for us early birds!), and with all the hustle and bustle at Westfield London, finding a cozy lunch spot is always a must. Enter Rudy’s Pizza, an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria that made for the perfect shopping break.

From the moment we sat down, the experience was a treat. True to Neapolitan tradition, Rudy’s pizzas are flash-cooked in just 60 seconds. In fact, our pizzas arrived so quickly that my kids were still washing their hands when they hit the table – talk about service!

The pizzas themselves are generous in size (as is the garlic bread!), so if you’re a family of four like us, be prepared for leftovers – which, trust me, you won’t mind at all. Each of us picked a different topping, and by the end, we had more than enough to bring home for dinner. Rudy’s truly serves up delicious, no-fuss pizza, perfect for recharging during a busy shopping day.

Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Website Editor

Helmed by renowned British chef Jackson Boxer (the man behind Orasay and Brunswick House), Henri is the new restaurant at 4-star hotel Henrietta Experimental. Located in the heart of Covent Garden in a 19th-century townhouse, the chic, bistro-inspired hotspot promises hearty yet elegant French food with a modern British twist. I recently had the pleasure of sampling their menu, and can confirm it's a real gem. 

The succinct menu is brimming with the usual French classics such as grilled snails, steak frites and Toulouse sausage, as well as more inspired dishes such as fried pig's trotter and fermented celeriac bread. For starters, don't miss the diver scallops with smoked pike roe and champagne butter. We're talking perfectly golden morsels accompanied by a beautifully rich and moreish sauce that had us dreaming for days. For something slightly lighter, try the poached leek with brixham crab and fried capers which are beautifully buttery with a refreshing tang. 

For mains, we had the steak frites, which boasts a zesty herb sauce, and the Toulouse sausage which is accompanied by luxuriously creamy potato purée and glossy gravy. We finished with the tarte frangipane (wonderfully moreish) and the chocolate mousse which, albeit seriously decadent, was a tad on the heavy side. As far as drinks are concerned, there is an extensive wine list, in addition to a plethora of unusual cocktails. The Eugénie combines tequila and olive leaf infused botanical vermouth, while the Fernand features a punchy kaffir leaf infused mezcal. Both are lip-smackingly good. 

As far as aesthetics are concerned, Henri screams whimsical Parisian bistro. It strikes the perfect balance between cool and cosy. Mirrored panels line the walls, flickering candles dot the tables, and Matisse-inspired prints catch the eye. A special mention must also go to the friendly waiting staff who were incredibly attentive and professional. In short, Henri is a must-try. 

Reviewed by Phoebe Tatham, News and Features Writer

It's never too early to immerse yourself in the festive season. Ice skating is the most charming winter activity, and doing it against a backdrop of Battersea Power Station's illuminated riverside is a London activity you shouldn't skip on your Christmas bucketlist. 

The Glide rink isn’t just any rink - it’s three interconnecting rinks, uniquely shaped to give skaters of all levels plenty of space to channel their inner ice princess. At the heart of the rink stands a beautifully decorated 30ft Christmas tree, adding a touch of festive magic. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a fun outing with friends, or a family day out with the little ones using penguin skate aids, Glide promises an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Don't miss a post-ice pit stop at The Glass House ba, a cosy spot to relax with pizza, snacks, and a festive selection of drinks.

To book, visit glidebatterseapowerstation.co.uk

Climbing enthusiasts and those who just want an adrenaline kick to their day can now venture to London's O2 for the newest incarnation of clip n' climb. 

Suitable for daredevils very young and old, safety comes first as you're strapped to safety harnesses before attempting any of the heady challenges. Clambering up a wall where you can see your opponent was a highlight for myself and my son, as was walking around a circle of ever-expanding higher plinths with your arms outstretched. 

Another bonus when it comes to challenging yourself here are the O2 onlookers who also provide encouragement and audible gasps when you achieve your feat. Just ensure you're not a shy retiring wallflower when climbing.

Reviewed by Christian Anderson-Ramshall, Head of Channels

The perfect get-together for foodies? I’ve found it: the Beef Wellington Masterclass at the Savoy Grill, one of London’s most iconic restaurants owned by Gordon Ramsay. Available every Saturday for groups of two to eight people, this two-and-a-half long masterclass is a unique event to book up for the festive season and includes hands-on chef tuition in the restaurant’s world-class kitchen.

If, like me, you’re into your culinary experiences, then you’ll find it very fun to go behind-the-scenes and play professional chef for the day. After learning the tricks of the trade to make the best beef wellington in the game, you’ll get to indulge in a three-course bespoke menu (featuring your creation), complete with delicious wine pairings. Post masterclass, I’d like to think that I’m now a mini-Gordon Ramsay in the making! In reality, a few more practises of perfecting my beef wellington wouldn’t go amiss!

Costing £300 per person, consider this as a special gift to treat a loved one with an experience you can both share and treasure forever.

Reviewed by Arianna Chatzidakis, Creative Content Director

The Lost Estate's iconic Christmas Carol experience is back. The Great Christmas Feast, a festive essential in London's winter calendar, will run from the 1 November to 12 January in West Kensington.

Step into Victorian London on Christmas Eve, 1843, and witness A Christmas Carol like never before, while savouring an extravagant three-course Victorian feast. As night falls, let Charles Dickens lead you and your fellow guests through an immersive, critically acclaimed retelling of Dickens' timeless tale, enriched by cinematic live music and a carefully curated Victorian menu.

Following six years of sold-out performances, The Lost Estate (known for The Great Murder Mystery and The Greatest Night of the Jazz Age) presents their most remarkable adaptation of A Christmas Carol yet for 2024.

This unforgettable experience combines London's top talents in theatre, music, mixology, and fine dining, earning it a cherished place among the city's favourite holiday traditions. Each year, it evolves, adding new flavours to its lavish menus and mesmerising performances that captivate audiences anew.

With Christmas approaching, don't miss your chance to secure a night of pure holiday magic. Gather friends, family, and loved ones to experience The Lost Estate’s most celebrated event yet—an unforgettable blend of storytelling, music, and indulgence that’s perfected year after year.

Reviewed by Sharnaz Shahid, Deputy Online Editor

Experience Mozart like never before by witnessing the magic of Mozart: Her Story - The New Musical! This groundbreaking new musical blends Mozart’s timeless classics with over 20 original contemporary songs by Tegan Summer and Gregory Nabours. The show shines a unique light on a classic story told through the eyes of Nan, Wolfgang's rebellious sister, who attempts to break through the misogynistic confines of the era with her courage and prodigious genius. 

Featuring an all-star cast from Broadway and the West End, including Gabrielle Brooks, Anthony Rapp, Tyrone Huntley and Laura Pitt-Pilford, this limited showing is a must-see fusion of classical brilliance and modern storytelling. Mozart: Her Story - The New Musical is only on for two nights this month at the iconic Theatre Royal Drury Lane, so make sure you book tickets fast.