Ten ideas for enjoying a cozy English November
It’s November in England and damp days and grey skies, shorter days and cooler temperatures are finally here.
And despite the call to hibernate, to hunker down beneath goosedown duvets with large mugs of cocoa and tins of home-baked cake, this is still a marvelous time of year to get outside. It's a month brimming with opportunities for cozy, cultural, and outdoor experiences.
So embrace the spirit of autumn and make the most of this beautiful time of year by exploring all that an English November has to offer and in this blog post, I'll share ten ideas of ways to do that.
Explore Autumnal Landscapes: Take a leisurely stroll or ramble through the English countryside, fields, moorlands or woodlands. Unless we’ve had some wild windy weather, there’s still time to admire the stunning colours as the tree foliage transitions from vibrant greens to warm shades of red, orange, and yellow. Use all of your senses for a full experience - crunching leaves underfoot, smelling the air, listening to the sounds of birdsong.
Go along to a traditional display of Bonfire Night Celebrations: Remember, remember, the fifth of November! Guy Fawkes Night, or Bonfire Night, is celebrated with fireworks, bonfires, and the burning of effigies to commemorate the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605. Join a local event for a dazzling display of lights and festivities.
Visit Historical Sites: English history is rich and diverse, and November is an excellent time to explore castles, manors, and other historical landmarks. Imagine yourself back in time as you wander through centuries-old architecture and learn more about England's past.
Enjoy Comfort Food: Savor traditional English comfort foods like hearty stews, pies, and puddings. Our family favourite is toad in the hole or steamed treacle pudding and custard. Visit a cozy, village pub, where you can enjoy a Sunday roast while being sheltered from the November chill.
Attend Literary Events: England has a deep literary heritage, and November is the perfect time to attend book fairs, author readings, and literature festivals. Explore the birthplaces of famous writers like William Shakespeare or Charles Dickens, and get inspired by their work. Or spend a few hours pottering in a secondhand bookshop to see what you can find.
Wildlife Watching: Despite the cooler weather, November is an ideal month for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Head to wetlands, nature reserves, or coastal areas to witness the seasonal migrations and the beauty of England's natural world.
Cozy Up in a Tearoom: Enjoy a spot of tea and freshly baked scones in one of England's charming tearooms. With their inviting, cozy atmospheres, tearooms offer a perfect escape from the November chill.
Visit a Christmas Market: In November, many English cities and towns kick off their Christmas markets, providing an early glimpse into the festive season. Explore these markets to shop for unique gifts, savor mulled wine, and enjoy the cheerful holiday spirit. Maybe enjoy a glass of mulled wine or even an early mince pie.
Cultural Experiences: Check out museums, art galleries, and theaters to experience England's rich cultural scene. It’s definitely time for me to book the family outing to a pantomime for Christmas and to see what other joys the local theatres offer.
Visit a National Park: Discover the beauty of England's national parks, such as the Lake District, the Peak District, or the New Forest. November offers a serene and less crowded experience, making it an ideal time for hiking, photography, and connecting with nature.
While November in England may not offer the sunny weather of summer or the festivity of December, it has its unique charm and beauty. Embrace the season by taking in the natural wonders, cultural delights, and cozy moments that this month provides. With these ten ideas, you'll find numerous ways to enjoy the essence of an English November and create lasting memories. So, put on your favorite scarf and venture out to make the most of this captivating time of year.