Weather in England in November

November is the final month of fall when the days grow considerably shorter. Damp, overcast days are common and any indication of milder warmer temperatures has long since vanished. Frosty mornings appear in rural areas, and in the north, you might even experience early snowfall. London and other popular cities still see a relatively constant flow of tourist numbers, but they decline in rural destinations. The colder, wetter weather in England in November makes visiting indoor museums and historical sites more appealing. Despite the less-than-ideal climate, in anticipation of the festive season, late November brings a warm, welcoming mood to the nation. 

England in November at a glance

England in November isn’t the best time to enjoy outdoor activities; the landscape lacks the vibrant fall foliage of October, daylight hours are short, and rain and wind are more frequent. On the other hand, this time is appealing for those who appreciate England’s quaint bars and numerous cultural venues. 

• In London, average November temperatures range from around 39°F to 52°F (4°C to 11°C), while in the Midlands and the north it’s slightly colder, about 37°F to 48°F (3°C to 9°C).
• November is a great time to travel to England if you want to explore London’s world-class museums, tour stately homes such as Blenheim Palace, or cozy up in a historic bar. 
• If you’re looking for a more peaceful trip, November is a great choice. Travel expenses are at their most affordable, which is especially inviting for those traveling on a budget.

What is the weather like in England in November?

This is peak fall weather in England, which means it’s mostly cool and damp, with more rain than sunshine. During the day, you’ll usually see temperatures between 45 to 51°F (7 to 10°C). At night, it can drop to around 35 to 41°F (2 to 5°C), especially in the countryside or further north. You might get the occasional sunny day, but it’s more common to have gray skies and steady drizzle.

Rainfall picks up compared to earlier in the year, averaging about 3.5 inches (90mm) for the month. The northwest and areas like the Lake District tend to see more wet days than places like London or the southeast. It’s not usually stormy, but the dampness hangs in the air, and you might wake up to mist or even a light frost.

Because it’s the low season, popular landmarks are less crowded, and accommodation is usually cheaper. It's also before the full swing of vacation travel starts, so cities like York, Bath, and London feel calmer but still lively. November is a good time to focus on indoor activities, like museums, galleries, historical houses, and warm café stops between sightseeing. This month can be a great time to plan your England itinerary.
 

Make your dream trip a reality with the help of our England local travel experts. 

Average daily temperatures in November

Temperatures in England shift quite a bit depending on where you are. Down south, places like London or Cornwall usually get daytime highs around 50–54°F (10 to 12°C). Up north, in regions like Yorkshire or Northumberland, it’s noticeably cooler, with daytime averages closer to 43–48°F (6–9°C). At night, temperatures can dip close to freezing, especially in the countryside or northern parts of the country.

The days are getting short now. By the end of the month, it’s already dark by around 4:30 PM, which definitely adds to the chill in the air. If you're near the coast, sea temperatures sit around 52–55°F (11–13°C). Not exactly ideal for a swim unless you’ve got a wetsuit, though you’ll still see some dedicated surfers out in Cornwall and Devon.

Weather can swing from one extreme to the other. You might get a dry, clear morning one day, then wake up to wind and rain the next. Frosty mornings start to become more common too, especially outside the cities. If you’re up early, you’ll catch those misty, peaceful landscapes that make the countryside feel a bit magical this time of year. It can be a great time for a trip, depending on how you plan your trip to England.
 

Is November a good time to visit England?

Although November is part of the fall meteorological season, the weather in England in November may feel rather wintery. The days grow noticeably shorter (sunset is around 4 pm), and cold, wet, and often foggy weather should be anticipated. While snow is not common in most urban areas, places located at higher elevations, like the Peak District and Yorkshire Dales, may see the first dustings of winter. Because of these conditions, visiting England in November might not be the best time to engage in outdoor activities.

England in November is rewarding for those who like to immerse themselves in cultural experiences indoors. The country boasts a huge amount of museums, galleries, and historic sites to keep visitors engaged without worrying about the weather. Renowned attractions like the British Museum, Windsor Castle, and the Houses of Parliament are just a few. In between bad weather days, it’s possible to get clear blue skies overhead, which are perfect for peaceful walks in the countryside. Just make sure to wrap up warm and be prepared for the muddy conditions.

As prices for flights and accommodations are among the lowest of the year in November, budget-conscious travelers should consider planning their trip for this time. Most of the major attractions remain open throughout the month and are much less crowded than normal. Depending on what you want out of your trip, you might find that November is one of the best times to visit England.

Why November is a good time to visit:

• Great time for museum visits, historical walks, and catching a theater show
• Atmospheric landscapes for photography, with morning mist and late fall color
• Major landmarks are far less crowded
• Hotels and rentals are cheaper and easier to book
• Feels more local, with fewer tourists around

What about the crowds and cost?

November is among the quietest months of the year for tourists coming to England. The shorter days and colder weather draw people indoors, making it easier to travel around, and roads are less congested. Most attractions throughout the country are blissfully less crowded, though some of London’s most famous museums continue to attract a moderate amount of tourists. Coastal locations and national parks receive very few visitors, therefore some rural accommodations close for the season.

Flights and accommodations are at their cheapest in November, save for the end of the month, when Christmas markets begin. Ultimately, November is a good time to travel to England if you have a tight budget and would prefer a more relaxing travel experience.
 

Where to go in England in November

November is a great time to explore England without the usual crowds. You’ll find moody landscapes, quieter cities, and a calm, local rhythm as things shift toward winter. Whether you’re after museums, countryside walks, or just a cozy bar, there’s a lot to enjoy this time of year. Here are some of the best places to visit in England in November.

London

London slows down a bit in November, which makes it easier to enjoy. Museums like the V&A or the Natural History Museum are much less busy, and it’s easier to get last-minute tickets to West End shows. Vacation lights start going up by mid-month, especially around Oxford Street and Covent Yard. Parks like Hyde Park or Hampstead Heath still hold onto some fall color, and a walk along the Thames in the evening can be beautiful with the mist and city lights. 

Bath and the Cotswolds

Bath looks especially dramatic in November, with its Georgian buildings standing out against gray skies. The Roman Baths are a lot quieter now, which makes the visit feel more relaxed. Just outside the city, the Cotswolds feel peaceful and slightly sleepy. Villages like Chipping Campden or Stow-on-the-Wold are great for slow country walks and warming up by the fire afterward. You’ll also start to see early seasonal markets popping up in some of the towns. 

York

York, in Yorkshire, is great this time of year. Its narrow streets and old stone walls give you some shelter from the wind and rain, and there’s plenty to do indoors. The cathedral feels especially atmospheric when the light is low, and the museums are calm and quiet. In the evenings, ghost walks are popular and surprisingly fun, winding through alleyways that feel made for November. 

Lake District

If you’re into landscapes, the Lake District is hard to beat. You might catch early snow on the peaks, and the lakes reflect that low golden light beautifully. Trails are mostly empty, though daylight is short so it’s best to get started early. Towns like Ambleside and Keswick are still open for business, with cafés and bars that feel even more inviting when you come in from the cold. 

Brighton

The beach isn’t for swimming now, but Brighton still draws people in November. The coastal air is fresh, and sunsets over the sea can be surprisingly good. You can duck into the Royal Pavilion or wander the Lanes if the weather turns. 
 

Things to do in England in November

The weather in England in November can be a little disheartening, but it shouldn’t deter you. With the nation’s museums gloriously less crowded, November is the perfect time to get your fill of culture. The warmth of snug bars and charming tea rooms are also an irresistible draw, following a brisk walk in the countryside on those brighter days. Here are some of the best things to do in England in November to get the most out of your trip. 

Explore the museums and galleries of London

London’s world-famous sites like the British Museum, Tate Modern, and the Natural History Museum offer fascinating exhibits and a cozy refuge from November’s inclement weather. Truly savor each exhibit at your own pace, unimpeded by others. 

Enjoy a cozy getaway in the Lake District

Enveloped in misty mornings, the Lake District in November is blissfully peaceful. Enjoy scenic drives in the daytime, visiting fascinating places like Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, and then return to a roaring log fire at a countryside inn.
 

Attend a Bonfire Night celebration

Bonfire Night (also known as Guy Fawkes Day) is celebrated throughout the country on November 5th, with fireworks, bonfires, and traditional treats like toffee apples. Some of the most spectacular displays take place in locations such as Lewes and York. 

Take a stately home tour

Historic estates such as Blenheim Palace, Chatsworth House, and Castle Howard begin their festive decorations in late November, offering early glimpses of Christmas splendor.

Walk along the South Downs Way

When you feel the urge to spend some time outside, take a bracing walk along the South Downs Way, which offers expansive vistas of rolling hills and coastal cliffs. November’s crisp air makes it an exhilarating time to explore the area.