November Shows in London

Navigation guide

1. Top West End shows in November
2. November premieres
3. Shows closing in November
4. Family-friendly shows
5. Events in London
6. Timeless shows in London
7. Visitor tips
8. Where to eat and drink
9. FAQs

November in London is electric with glowing bonfires, first festive lights, and crisp evenings perfect for a theatre escape. Bonfire Night in London brings fireworks and community spirit, then the city shifts into cozy mode. From West End dramas to musicals and local traditions, things to do in London in November2025 include theaters, markets, and pop‑up experiences. Expect London shows in November 2025 to offer sparkle, warmth, and mood-rich storytelling.

November premieres in London

November in London isn’t only about autumn leaves, shorter days, and Bonfire Night—it also marks the arrival of some standout new theatre openings. From moving operas to festive family hits, these London shows in November 2025 promise thrilling stories, memorable performances, and limited-run excitement.

• Dead Man Walking (London Coliseum): ENO’s powerful new production of Jake Heggie and Terrence McNally’s operatic drama brings a searing tale of redemption and forgiveness to the stage — a rare chance to see this contemporary classic. Opens November 1.
• A Christmas Carol (Old Vic Theatre): The Old Vic’s beloved adaptation of Dickens’ classic returns for another festive season of ghosts, redemption, and theatrical magic. Opens November 12.
• All My Sons (Wyndham’s Theatre): Catch Bryan Cranston as Joe Keller, alongside Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Paapa Essiedu, under the direction of Ivo van Hove — Miller’s gripping tale of family, guilt, and moral reckoning in a limited run. Opens November 14.
• Partenope (London Coliseum): Love, comedy, and Handel’s glorious music collide in ENO’s glamorous new production of this rarely performed Baroque opera — an offbeat delight for music lovers. Opens November 20.
• Beauty and the Beast: A Horny Love Story (Charing Cross Theatre): A hilariously naughty panto-style retelling of the classic fairy tale for adults only — expect bold humour, cheeky characters, and outrageous fun. Opens November 21.
• Jack and the Beanstalk (King’s Head Theatre): A charming new family-friendly panto reimagining the classic tale with giggles, giants, and plenty of festive cheer. Opens November 23.
• The Gruffalo’s Child (Garrick Theatre): Tall Stories’ enchanting stage adaptation brings the magical winter adventure to life, perfect for young theatregoers and families. Opens November 28.
• Fallen Angels (Menier Chocolate Factory): Noël Coward’s daring 1925 comedy returns in a stylish new revival directed by Christopher Luscombe, blending razor-sharp wit, period elegance, and Olivier Award-winning performances. Opens November 21.

London shows closing in November

Some of London’s most talked-about productions are taking their final bows this month. If you’ve been meaning to catch them, this is your last chance before they leave the stage. These shows are wrapping up in November—making it the perfect time to experience their final weeks of theatrical magic in the West End.

• Born With Teeth (Kiln Theatre): A sharp, gripping two-hander imagining a tense meeting between literary giants Shakespeare and Marlowe — a bold, fast-paced drama. Closes November 1.
• Mary Page Marlowe (Old Vic Theatre): Tracy Letts’ moving portrait of an ordinary woman’s extraordinary inner life, pieced together across decades. Closes November 1.
• Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs (Lightroom): A family-friendly immersive spectacle that brings prehistoric creatures to life with state-of-the-art visuals — a top pick for kids in London this November. Closes November 2.
• Carmen (London Coliseum): Bizet’s passionate opera receives a bold new English National Opera staging, ideal for both seasoned opera lovers and first-timers. Closes November 5.
• Ghost Stories (Ambassadors Theatre): A chilling theatrical experience returns to haunt London audiences — perfect for thriller fans and a unique bonfire night outing. Closes November 8.
• The Lady from the Sea (Bridge Theatre): Ibsen’s haunting tale of desire, choice, and personal freedom in a striking new production — ideal for thoughtful London theatregoers. Closes November 8.
• Dead Man Walking (London Coliseum): ENO’s gripping operatic adaptation of the true story of a nun and a death row inmate concludes its limited run. Closes November 8.
• Get Down Tonight: The KC and the Sunshine Band Musical (Charing Cross Theatre): A glittering jukebox musical bursting with disco anthems, funky beats, and dancefloor nostalgia. Closes November 15.
• Fanny (King’s Head Theatre): A bold, witty examination of gender, power, and performance that has captivated critics and audiences alike. Closes November 15.
• Stereophonic (Duke of York’s Theatre): David Adjmi’s Tony-winning backstage rock drama tracking the chaos and creativity behind a 1970s album recording. Closes November 22.
• Clarkston (Trafalgar Theatre): A moving modern American tale about dreams, disappointment, and deep connection in a dead-end town. Closes November 22.
• Punch (Apollo Theatre): A fierce, high-octane play exploring masculinity, rage, and redemption in working-class Britain. Closes November 29.
• The Wanderers (Marylebone Theatre): A poignant exploration of love, faith, and the cost of connection within modern Jewish identity. Closes November 29.
• Magical Merlin (St. Martin's Theatre): A spellbinding family adventure filled with illusion, myth, and mischievous magic. A playful twist on the Arthurian legend. Closes November 2.

Cosy family shows in London for November 2025

November is tailor-made for theatre lovers—short days, chilly evenings, and the first hint of Christmas in the air. Here are some perfect shows for the season.

• Matilda The Musical: Roald Dahl’s beloved tale continues to wow audiences with its wit, charm, and stunning choreography.
• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: The two-part wizarding epic continues to cast its spell over the West End.
• Elf! The Musical: Based on the cherished Will Ferrell 2003 movie, this musical is back for a limited winter run packed with festive cheer, upbeat songs, and cheerful family fun.
• Disney’s Hercules: A bold stage adaptation of the beloved Disney film, Disney’s Hercules brings larger-than-life characters, humor, and Greek myth magic to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Pro tips for visiting London in November

• Dress for the weather: November is chilly—averaging 7°C by day and 3°C at night. Pack layers, a warm coat, and waterproofs for sudden showers.
• Matinees for daylight lovers: With sunsets around 4:15pm, opt for matinees to enjoy some daylight before or after your show.
• Check for Bonfire Night disruptions: November 5 brings huge crowds and some road closures—allow extra travel time in Central London.
• Book Christmas shows early: Pantomimes and festive productions start this month—tickets sell fast for popular family shows.
• Stay near the action: Covent Garden and Soho are ideal bases for theatre trips with plenty of dining, shopping, and easy transport links.
• Public transport over taxis: Tube and buses are more reliable in the city—plus parking can be expensive near theatres.
• Dining reservations recommended: November weekends can be busy—reserve pre-theatre dining to avoid long waits.
• Evenings get chilly: West End theatres are cosy, but the walk back can be cold—carry a scarf or gloves for later.