While the weather might be beginning to turn chillier, there are still lots of exciting free events taking place this November to keep you busy as the nights draw in. Read on for our picks
From wine tasting and chocolate making to hiking and woodworking, our list of free events for November 2021 offers a stimulating mix of activities, classes and experiences suitable for all ages.
Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, join a lively singalong, participate in some mindful forest wandering or even start preparing for Christmas at a festive market, these free events taking place in November have you covered.
So read on for our ever-eclectic and always-free list of 25 recommended events and experiences happening this November…
1. Learn the basics of baking
Bake Along with Tegs – Women's baking classes, online – Thursdays throughout November
A friendly and social way to learn the basics of baking, this free online event offers participants the chance to learn how to bake wholesome, tasty foods, each made with affordable and easily accessed ingredients. Providing helpful tutorials on all your favourite winter-warmer treats including cookies and cakes, when you sign up to these online baking classes you’ll be sent a list of ingredients, resources and the cooking method ahead of the class itself.
2. Enjoy a fireworks display
Cassiobury Fireworks, Watford – 6th November
An exciting blend of traditional Guy Fawkes night activities with a celebration of Diwali, the festival of light, this marvellous display is one of the largest free-to-attend fireworks events in the UK and well worth a visit. Featuring kids’ funfair rides, live music and a variety of food outlets on site, there’s plenty to entertain here beyond the spectacular display (starting at 7:30pm). And as it’s a free event, make sure to give generously to the volunteers running the show on behalf of a variety of deserving local charities.
3. Learn about Anthropology
Radical Anthropology Talks, London – Tuesdays throughout November
A unique opportunity to learn about the lesser-known parts of ancient human history from experts in their field, these free-to-attend talks at University College London are a must for those interested in the study of ‘what it means to be human’. Taking place across dates in November and December, these talks offer a broad program of subject matters, covering everything from the importance of children in human evolution to what chimpanzees can teach us about humanity. Attend for your chance to learn about the origins of language, art, music and culture over 100,000 years of human history.
4. Listen to a Royal Air Force orchestra
Lunchtime Recital – Royal Air Force Salon Orchestra, London – 5th November
Held at the beautiful Regent Hall in the heart of London’s West End, this lunchtime concert by the Royal Air Force Salon Orchestra is a wonderful chance to hear music composed and arranged by the famous pianist Fred Hartley. Comprising light music including traditional airs and waltzes as well as other popular music of the 1930s, don’t miss out on your chance to enjoy a rare and exclusive performance of this unique band at an iconic venue, completely free of charge.
5. Try Japanese street food
Japanese Street Food at Brighton Bier Brewery, Brighton – 12th November
Open from 5pm to 10pm at the Brighton Bier Brewery, this yummy event affords visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the flavourful world of Japanese street food. Offering a wide range of different foods to try, from delectable gyoza and teriyaki, to beer-battered fish and tasty tofu burgers. Plus, lovers of beer will be well looked after by the staff of the Brighton Bier Brewery itself offering a great selection of local and international tipples to try.
6. Have a go at salvaged woodworking
Pop-Up Workshop: Salvaged Storage, London – 3rd November
A fun, hands-on woodworking experience suitable for any level of ability, the pop-up workshop at Heathway in Dagenham is a must for those looking to gain a new skill and produce a useful storage box to take home too. An hour-long session during which you will learn basic woodworking techniques, the pop-up shop uses only sustainable materials which will be provided for you. Lucky visitors will not only leave with a useful storage box, but also with the knowledge that you’ve saved a few pieces of waste-timber from landfill.
7. Try out a choral sing-along
Hull All For One Choir Session, Hull – 10th November
A joyful singalong that’s open to all, (no audition required) Hull All For One Choir Session is a great opportunity for amateur singers to make new friends while singing along to all your favourites. Plus, the AFO choir events support a broad range of local and national charities and in addition to this free event at St Andrews Memorial Hall in Hull on the 10th of November, there are sessions you can join throughout the year.
8. Join a conservation volunteering session
Denham Country Park Practical Conservation Volunteer Session, Buckinghamshire – 9th November
A chance to get outside and enjoy nature while simultaneously giving something back to the environment, this practical conservation volunteer session is run by the full-time rangers who manage the country park at Denham. With tools, gloves and everything else you might need provided for you, all you need to do is show up to the park with an enthusiastic attitude. And rest assured, there’s something for everyone here, simply let the rangers know if you feel a task is beyond your capability and they’ll find another for you to do.
9. Attend a vintage clothes sale
Epic Vintage Clothes Sale Pop Up – men’s and women’s, London – 6th November
With live DJs and loads of different sellers bringing with them all kinds of vintage clothes to peruse and purchase, this vintage fashion fair has a little of something for everyone. From rare Japanese Denim and collectible trainers to bargain pre-loved clothes by the kilogram, visitors to this pop up clothes sale at Free The Gallery in London won’t leave disappointed (or emptyhanded for that matter!)
10. Take the kids to a Harvest Festival
Harvest Festival Family Day, East Sussex – 7th November
A family fun day with something to entertain every age group, this Harvest Festival Family Fun Day at Bluebell Vineyard is the ideal way to celebrate the changing of the season out in the countryside. Providing local food vans, glitter face painting, live music and fun-filled kids activities, it’s the perfect Sunday activity. Additionally, the grown-ups can enjoy sampling drinks from Generation 11 Gin – a local brewery – as well as the award-winning English still and sparkling wines produced by the vineyard itself.
11. Experience local ceramic art
Ceramics Open Studio 2021, London – 12th November
Taking place at an impressive Victorian factory studio in Wood Green, this open studio event affords visitors a unique opportunity to see a showcase of local ceramic artists, designers and makers in their natural habitat. Wander through the studio and work at various stages of production as well as pieces created by established and new local artists, some of which are available to purchase. From elegant tableware to beautiful painted porcelain, the collection here is sure to impress and delight in its variety and skilful execution.
12. Venture to a Japanese self-defence class
Free self-defence class at South Wimbledon Shorinji Kempo Dojo, London – 8th November
An enjoyable and friendly opportunity to try out the ancient Japanese art of Shorinji Kempo, this free class at an authentic Dojo is a great introduction to self-defence. Benefitting both the body and mind through its carefully crafted movements and breathing techniques, Shorinji Kempo is a martial art that’s accessible to people of all abilities. Plus, guests will also leave with useful self-defence tips as a bonus.
13. See how artisan chocolates are made
Chocolate Tempering Demo with Artisan Chocolatier ‘Miss Witt’, Hampshire – 13th November
Hosted by award-winning artisan chocolatier ‘Miss Witt’ is this festive-themed demonstration. Giving guests the chance to see how chocolate truffles are made, this demo also includes helpful tips on how to recreate them at home. The ideal activity for both lovers of chocolate and those who enjoy a culinary challenge, visitors to this demonstration will also have the chance to win an exquisite chocolate prize as well as purchase truffles and other sweet treats.
14. Attend a countryside craft market
Craft & Unique Market – the Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks, Kent – 21st November
Comprising a variety of stalls run by local artisans, Craft & Unique Market gives guests the chance to browse and buy a wide selection of locally-made homewares, gifts, art, bric-a-brac, food and much more. In addition to the market, there’s also the historic gardens of Reuthe (The Lost Gardens Of Sevenoaks) to explore here. Dating back to 1902, the gardens encompass historic woodlands, formal gardens, a cafe and even resident alpacas.
15. Master techniques to improve your happiness
Health and Happiness Workshop – Online, 15th November
An online class designed to help provide attendees with tools to help manage stress, increase happiness and improve your energy levels, this Health and Happiness Workshop is particularly helpful for those who may have struggled during the last 18th months. Through breathing, meditation and mindfulness techniques, this event aims to leave attendees better equipped to manage personal problems or work pressures.
16. Join in with a Jazz open-mic night
PATTERNS Live Jazz: in the loft, London – 4th November
A great way to support local upcoming talent in the Jazz world, this open-mic event in East London is a true celebration of music. With a roster of performers that represent all kinds of different Jazz genres including Soul, Broken-Beat, Hip Hop, Grime, Rap and much more, there’s something for most music-lovers here. And for those feeling really brave there’s opportunity to join in with the improvised sessions. There’s also a great food partner at the event in the form of Yard Sale Pizza, whose stone-baked pizzas are award-winning.
17. Enjoy a festive wine tasting experience
M&B uncorked, 100 wines! Christmas wine tasting, Dorset – 25th November
Informal and flavourful this event brings together an amazing 100 different wines, fizzes, ports, sherries and gins for you to try (though attempting to try all 100 is not recommended!). The M&B Christmas wine tasting is free of charge this year as a ‘welcome back’ after in person events were cancelled by the pandemic. Hosted at Dukes in Dorchester, this wine-lovers’ paradise provides guests with a glass and a list of all the wines, leaving it up to you to stroll between tables and whet your whistle.
18. Revel in authentic Irish Ceili music
Live Irish Ceili Music, London – 25th November
Hosted at the exciting Radicals and Victuallers bar in central London, this night of authentic Ceili music is a must-visit for lovers of a great knees-up (Irish or not). Performed by Nigel (and his band of merry-men and women), this night of fiddles, fifes, accordions, flutes, guitars and singing is not to be missed, transporting this Islington bar to the Gaelic heartlands of the Emerald Isle. And with great food and drink on offer too, you’ll no doubt be on your feet yourself by the end of the evening.
19. Have a go at jewellery making
Pop Up Workshop: Make Your Own Jewellery, London – 10th November
Another fantastic, free-to-attend workshop, this make-your-own-jewellery class will give you the opportunity to create your own pieces with the help of an expert. No previous experience is required and you don’t need to bring your own materials or equipment. Simply come along and have a go at creating your own jewellery from acrylic or wood. Additionally, visitors to The Good House (which is hosting this event) also have the chance to purchase locally made sustainable products created at the venue.
20. Engage in some Yarnbombing
Warwick Library Yarnbombers! Warwick – 6th November
A chance to join in with an avid group of knitting and crocheting enthusiasts ranging from amateur to expert, this event at Warwick Library is a great introduction to those hobbies with an amusing twist. For the uninitiated, Yarnbombing is the act of covering an object or structure in a public place with decorative knitted or crocheted material, as a form of street art. Working towards “a joyful woolly explosion of a yarnbombing event” in the new year, this group will offer help, advice (and equipment and materials for those that need it) to anyone aged 14 and over who is interested in knitting and crocheting.
21. Follow a Sherlock Holmes-themed walking tour
Free Sherlock Holmes & the Art of Deduction Tour, London – 6th November
Famously the brainchild of Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes is as much a part of the fabric of London as black cabs and red telephone boxes, so what better way to experience the city than through lens of Holmes and Watson? Taking in famous sites from both the Benedict Cumberbatch and Robert Downie Jr. interations of the famous detective, as well as locations from the original novels, this free walking tour is ideal for lovers of literature, and TV and film buffs alike.
22. Go on a Nordic Walking adventure
Nordic Walking (Rising Sun Country Park), Tyneside – 12th November
A wonderful way to get outdoors, build your fitness and meet new friends, Nordic Walking has really taken off in recent years and for good reason. Taking place in Rising Sun Country Park, this event is run by Nordic Walking UK trained Sustrans Volunteers and is suitable for most abilities, with walking poles available to borrow for newcomers. Plus, with the walking techniques you’ll need taught by the experts there’s no better time to have a go at combining a full-body workout with a pleasant stroll through some beautiful English countryside.
23. Observe or participate in a veteran car run
London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2021, London/Brighton – 7th November
Celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is a haven for lovers of vintage cars and the world’s longest-running motoring event. Consisting of a rally of cars from London’s Hyde Park to Brighton Pier, the event is organised by the Royal Automobile Club. Participating cars must have been built before 1905, making for a great spectacle for both entrants and observers. With a rich history dating back to ‘Emancipation Day’ in 1896 when motor vehicle laws were liberalised in the UK, this event is a must-see for anyone with an interest in cars or motoring history.
24. Get in the festive spirit
Free Christmas Market in Crystal Palace, London – 7th November
With Christmas deliveries for this festive period seemingly in limbo, there’s never been a better time to shop small for your gifts this year. So, if you’re looking for a unique artisan gift made by a local maker or designer, this free Christmas market is the ideal place to find it. Showcasing the very best work of local artists, come along to find beautiful ceramics, homewares, clothing, jewellery, candles and much more, shopping safe in the knowledge that your gifts won’t be at the mercy of the delivery drivers’ schedule!
25. Immerse yourself in the forest
Forest Bathing Walk, Stirling – 17th November
The practice of completely immersing yourself in nature, Forest Bathing is a unique Japanese therapy that’s found its way to the United Kingdom. Consisting of a walk among the trees, Forest Bathing is all about absorbing the atmosphere and achieving mental calmness through your surroundings. This session, led by Cath Wright (a qualified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide) will lead you through a series of activities aiming to leave you feeling calm, relaxed and introspective, concluding with a traditional tea ceremony to close the experience.
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