November is one of those months when London really comes into its own. The evenings draw in, the city's restaurants and bars become all the more inviting, and the social calendar begins its annual build-up to Christmas. There is plenty to look forward to this year, too. From the return of some of London’s best-loved festive traditions and a Cotswolds game dinner to international rugby, live jazz and an exhibition exploring one of fashion's most influential decades, we've rounded up nine things worth putting in the diary this November.

There are few more beautiful settings for an evening of ice skating than the grand neoclassical courtyard of Somerset House. Returning on 11 November, the capital's much-loved outdoor rink has become something of a London institution, and for good reason. Whether you're a confident skater or someone who prefers to spend most of the evening holding on to the side, it's a wonderful way to welcome the festive season. Better still, make an evening of it with a drink afterwards.

Skate at Somerset House

Christmas in London wouldn't be quite the same without Winter Wonderland. Returning to Hyde Park on 19 November, the annual extravaganza brings together everything from fairground rides and festive markets to ice skating and seasonal food and drink. Admittedly, it isn't the most understated way to spend an evening, but that's rather the point. Wrap up warm, embrace the atmosphere and enjoy one of the capital's most recognisable Christmas traditions.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Few things go together quite as well as live jazz, good Champagne and an exceptional dinner. This November, The Dorchester welcomes back its popular Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club evenings, in partnership with Ruinart. Taking place at The Grill, the series brings together some of contemporary jazz's finest performers with a three-course dinner created by culinary director Martyn Nail. On 25 November, Australian jazz artist Frances Madden takes to the stage. At £175 per person, it's an evening that promises to be rather special.

Ronnie Scott’s at The Dorchester

International rugby enters a new chapter this autumn with the inaugural Nations Championship, bringing together 12 of the world's leading rugby nations. The competition reaches its conclusion at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, from 27 to 29 November, with the Northern and Southern Hemispheres going head-to-head.

For those looking to make a proper occasion of it, the stadium's hospitality offering is particularly compelling. On Sunday 29 November, two of Britain's most celebrated chefs take charge of the dining experience. Tommy Banks, the man behind The Black Swan at Oldstead and Roots in York, will be cooking in the East Wing, while Tom Kerridge, whose Hand & Flowers holds two Michelin stars, takes over Champions Club. World-class rugby, excellent food and a suitably lively atmosphere. What's not to like?

Nations Championship Finals Weekend

There is something rather wonderful about the ritual of a proper Sunday. The newspapers, a long lunch, a Bloody Mary and absolutely no reason to rush. Sunday Papers Live takes that idea and turns it into an entire afternoon of entertainment. Returning to Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings in Clerkenwell on 15 November, the event brings together journalists, writers, comedians and cultural commentators to discuss everything from politics and current affairs to art and lifestyle. There are guided walks, live music, interactive crosswords and, naturally, a Sunday roast. A thoroughly civilised way to spend the last day of the weekend.

Sunday Papers Live

Few British automotive brands have generated quite as much conversation in recent years as Jaguar. Now, with the unveiling of the all-electric Type 01, the marque's reinvention is becoming a reality. Its newly opened flagship in Knightsbridge is well worth a visit, not least because it offers a rare opportunity to see the new grand tourer in person. But this is far from a conventional showroom. The striking space combines contemporary design, art and British craftsmanship, alongside Café Eighty-One, with a menu developed in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Michael O'Hare. Whether you're convinced by Jaguar's new direction or not, it's certainly worth seeing for yourself.

Jaguar in Knightsbridge

For anyone with an interest in fashion, photography or contemporary art, Tate Britain's latest exhibition is essential viewing. Curated by Edward Enninful, The 90s: Art and Fashion explores a decade that transformed British creativity, bringing together the designers, photographers and artists who helped define an era. Expect work from the likes of Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, Juergen Teller, Damien Hirst and Sarah Lucas, alongside an exploration of the magazines, music and cultural movements that shaped the decade. Running until 14 February 2027, it's a fascinating reminder of just how influential the 1990s remain today.

The 90s: Art and Fashion

On Thursday 12 November, The Feathered Nest, one of the Cotswolds’ most polished pubs, joins forces with gunmakers Holland & Holland for a six-course celebration of British game. Head Chef James Erasmus, whose hyper-seasonal menus carry a whisper of South Africa and rarely stray beyond what can be foraged, shot or grown nearby, cooks alongside the Holland & Holland culinary team.

Expect a game liver parfait choux bun with smoked pigeon pastrami, buckwheat garganelli in hare broth, and a mallard, partridge and foie gras pressing. Then comes roast sika deer with elderberry and peppercorn jus. Peach and pumpkin custard tart follows, before Tunworth cheese, warm pear brioche and Périgord truffle. Tweed optional, appetite essential.

The Feathered Nest

London has always had a remarkable jazz scene, and few events celebrate it quite like the EFG London Jazz Festival. Returning from 13 to 22 November, the festival brings together some of the world's most accomplished musicians alongside emerging talent for ten days of performances across the capital. This year's programme includes Melody Gardot, Mariza and an opening gala at the Royal Festival Hall, while Goldie joins forces with a live orchestra for what promises to be one of the more unexpected performances of the festival. Whether you're a lifelong jazz enthusiast or simply looking for an excellent evening out, there are plenty of reasons to book a ticket.

EFG London Jazz Festival