What's on in London: November 2024

Exhibition

Mapping the Tube: 1863-2023, Until 30 November
The London Underground gets a star turn this autumn with a new exhibition at The Map House in Knightsbridge. Celebrating 160 years of transport innovation, this showcase delves into the evolution of the iconic Tube map. The highlight? Rare manuscripts from Harry Beck, the designer behind the world-renowned 1933 map that transformed how people navigate cities. Featuring his original hand drawn drafts, including never-before-seen annotations, the exhibition gives an intimate look into the creative process of one of Britain’s most influential designers. Alongside Beck’s work, you’ll fi nd early Underground maps and posters, illustrating the Tube’s transformation from a modest railway to a cultural symbol.
54 Beauchamp Place, SW3 (020 7589 4325; themaphouse.com)

Music

EFG London Jazz Festival, 15-24 November
We’re in for an eclectic line-up of global talent this November. Highlights include Grammy-winning Meshell Ndegeocello, who will take to the stage at KOKO, presenting music from her latest album No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin. Guitar legend Pat Metheny will perform at the Barbican, celebrating the release of MoonDial. Rising star Amy Gadiaga brings her unique blend of jazz and modern sounds to Ninety One Living Room, and Keyon Harrold, known for his jazz/hip hop fusion, returns to the Jazz Café, while Ganavya, who blends spiritual jazz with Indian classical music, performs at Union Chapel. With artists like Julian Lage and Nduduzo Makhathini also gracing the stage, this promises to be an extraordinary week of jazz performances.
See efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk for dates and times

Art

Antler X Christabel Blackburn Auction, until 5th November
Bringing the worlds of travel and art together, luxury luggage brand, Antler, has collaborated with Christabel Blackburn, an acclaimed London-based artist and winner of Sky Portrait of the Year. Christabel has created a unique painting that captures the promise and potential of adventure, translating the essence of travel into a one-off piece of art, and this is up for auction. With all proceeds going to Place2Be, the UK’s leading school-based mental health charity, there are a few days left to bid for this beautiful piece.
Bid Here

Musical

Mozart: Her Story, 16 & 17 November
This inspiring new musical arrives at Drury Lane for two exclusive performances this November. With a stellar cast featuring Gabrielle Brooks, Tyrone Huntley, and Anthony Rapp, the production reimagines the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart through the eyes of his sister, Nan. Known for her own musical genius, Nan’s story highlights the struggles of women in the 18th century as she fights for recognition in a male-dominated world. Blending rock and classical influences, this original work offers a fresh take on the Mozart legacy, brought to life by a super talented creative team.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine Street WC2B (020 3925 2998; lwtheatres.co.uk)

Late Night Shopping

Christmas Lights Switch On, 13 November, 3-8pm
Marylebone Village is set to welcome the festive season in style with its annual Christmas lights switch-on. Visitors can enjoy an evening filled with seasonal activities, from live music and artisan market stalls to crafting workshops, and even a Ferris wheel. The highlight of course will be the dazzling lights illuminating the neighbourhood, with BBC Broadcaster Jo Good returning as host – expect a celebrity guest to push the button, too. With festive food, crafts, and late-night shopping, it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace the beginning of Christmas, mulled wine and mince pie in hand.
(marylebonevillage.com)

Festival

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, 21 November-5 January
Step into a world of festive magic as the Capital’s favourite winter attraction returns. This year, the Magical Ice Kingdom takes visitors on an enchanting journey through Alice in Wonderland, with breath-taking ice sculptures of beloved characters. Skaters can take to the UK’s largest open-air ice rink, set beneath twinkling lights and accompanied by live music, while the Real Ice Slide promises a thrilling descent for adventure-seekers. But if you’re after a more relaxed vibe, Bar Ice offers cool cocktails in an alpine-inspired setting, where even the glasses are made of ice. Dress up warm!
(hydeparkwinterwonderland.com)