Written by Anisha Shinde
As LSE students, we know November in London is infamously dark by 4:30. Everyone is a bit tired, whether from university or work, and I think that’s why the city goes overboard on lights this time of year. So, here’s what’s worth leaving your room for!
Southbank Winter Market
Open since 2 November and free to walk around. It’s a row of wooden chalets along the Thames selling mulled wine and things you didn’t know you needed. Go with a friend and no plans, and you’ll still end up with a churro.
Christmas lights
In case you missed the announcements, Carnaby Street, Regent Street and Covent Garden are all lit up! Carnaby has gone for a 1990s theme this year, which feels very on brand for our generation. All three are free and a short walk from each other, so you can do a lot in one evening. You could even squeeze in some shopping and a pint on the way.
Ice skating
Glide at Battersea Power Station has been open since 6 November, with a rink in front of the power station and a skate trail you can follow through the trees. Somerset House opened its courtyard rink on the 11th, and I can vouch for it. I went last year, and they played “Merry Christmas, Please Don’t Call” by Bleachers, one of my favourite songs, which turned the whole evening into a core memory. Book ahead for either rink so you’re not stuck queuing in the cold.
London Jazz Festival
Attention! This runs 13-22 November, so there are still a few days left to attend once this issue is out. Ben Folds and Samara Joy are on the bill, and it’s spread across 60+ venues, so it isn’t all expensive concert halls. Some smaller shows even start around £15, which is very student-budget friendly.
Winter Wonderland
Opens 19 November in Hyde Park and runs until 3 January. It’s loud and crowded, and everyone will tell you it’s overpriced, yet most of them go anyway. Expect rollercoasters, carnival games and far too many sweets. It also has the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink if Glide is booked up.
That’s the list! Autumn term is almost over, and most of us have assessment deadlines or exams coming up, so you don’t need to do everything on it. But pick one or two. The lights and market are free, and the walk between them is a decent excuse to take a break. Our time at LSE is short, so have fun and make some good memories, even if that means stepping away from your laptop before it gets dark at 4:30 again tomorrow.
