November is just before the big run-up to the festive season, but thats not to say that there isnt absolutely loads going on in the capital as the temperatures begin to drop. As always theres plenty to please those who like to lean towards the luxury side of life. Here are our top picks for whats happening next month in London.
1. Catch an exhibition before it goes
Plenty of big exhibitions open this month in preparation for the busy Christmas season, and now is the time to see them before the crowds get there. At the ever-popular Victoria and Albert Museum in South Kensington, the redesigned Fashion Gallery will reopen with Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950. A great chance to see the best of the collections, it will display dresses worn by Kate Moss and Elizabeth Hurley, and showcase designs by home-grown talent such as Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney.
The stunning Somerset House will also open Cartier-Bresson: A Question of Colour a small exhibition of photographs by the legendary French photographer, never shown before in the UK. The Turner Prize will also be open for viewing.
2. Jiggle to some jazz
November sees the London Jazz Festival come to town from Friday 9thto Sunday 18th November 2012. Events will take place across the capital at a massive range of top venues including the famous BBC Maida Vale Studios, The Barbican, the National Maritime Museum, legendary Ronnie Scotts and the Royal Albert Hall.
Its hard to choose highlights, but choose a venue that appeals to you, then book your seats early to get the best view. British violinist Claire Connors will be taking the stage at the Royal Academy of Arts on Saturday 17th November 2012. She has worked with David Bryne and Michael Nyman and her trio of musicians will be reinventing big band tracks for small strings.
3. Browse Borough Market
Londons ultimate foodie destination just keeps getting more popular. Any day is a great time to wander the stalls and nibble on treats, but on Thursday 30th November 2012, the market will host a special Demonstration Kitchen event. Between 12 and 2pm, chef Hayley Edwards will be showing how to create classic Caribbean dishes. At her side will be Pimento Hills delectable selection of spicy sauces and seasonings.
At other times, stop by for a freshly shelled raw oyster, or for a delicious range of locally-produced cheeses, tarts and pies.
4. Tread the boards
Londons theatre scene has been booming since the times of Shakespeare. Some fabulous new plays have just started in the West End and around. The Old Vics production of Hedda Gabler features actress of the moment Sheridan Smith and has achieved critical acclaim. For a lighter form of entertainment, try to get seats for the hilarious farce One Man, Two Guvnors at the Haymarket Theatre Royal.
