From frosty walks to bonfires and festive markets, enjoy the best of November with our pick of 25 free events.
Embrace the frosty mornings and shorter days of winter by filling your diary with exciting free events. From watching flaming tar barrels to cheering on a historic car run, and exploring the biggest Christmas Market in the country, there’s plenty to see and do in November. To provide some inspiration, we’ve rounded up 25 of the best free events to enjoy this season.
Want to stay cosy at home? Settle in and enjoy our exclusive members-only online talks, featuring expert speakers on everything from history to science and travel – all from the comfort of your sofa.
Please note that some of the listed events are exclusive to Boundless members.
Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.
As well as getting access to exclusive events, Boundless members enjoy unlimited free or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, plus year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.
Simply click on a link below to jump straight to:
- Free nationwide events
- Free events in London & the South East
- Free events in the South West & Wales
- Free events in the Midlands & East
- Free events in the North of England
- Free events in Scotland & Northern Ireland
- Free online events
Free nationwide events
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Marvel at murmurations at WWT
WWT centres, nationwide
From November onwards, starling murmurations begin as the birds gather at their chosen roosting sites. Often described as Britain’s greatest wildlife spectacle, these swirling formations are truly awe-inspiring.
Despite a decline in their overall population in recent years, thousands of birds can still be seen performing their mesmerising aerial dance at dawn and dusk at WWT wetlands – if you’re lucky! Find a wetland centre near you.
As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.
Stretch your legs on a Ramblers walk
Ramblers walks, anytime, nationwide
Don’t let the shorter days stop you from keeping active. Ramblers host guided walks all over the UK every week, giving you the chance to stretch your legs, meet new people and enjoy the great outdoors together.
Ramblers Wellbeing Walks are free, short walks held across England that aim to boost health, wellbeing, and happiness. With hundreds of walks every week, just put on your shoes and join in – no booking needed.
Join Boundless Plus
The Ramblers is a great way to start your walking journey, with thousands of guided walks and routes available to members. What’s more, Boundless Plus members benefit from free access to the Ramblers.
Finding a group couldn’t be simpler: just enter your postcode on the Ramblers website and you’ll see which of their 500 local groups is nearest to you.
Free events in London & the South East
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Remember, remember, Lewes Bonfire Celebrations
Lewes, East Sussex, 5 November
On 5th November, Lewes will host its spectacular bonfire procession, with hundreds of spectators joined by around thirty visiting bonfire societies and dozens of marching bands along the town’s cobbled streets.
Participants in traditional costume will parade 17 burning crosses through the streets to honour the 16th-century martyrs who were executed here. The evening culminates in spectacular fireworks and the lighting of towering bonfires on the surrounding hills. The procession is free to watch, while access to the official bonfire sites requires a ticket.
Explore art, fashion, and horticulture at Material World at Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens, London, 2 November
Catch Material World, a vibrant festival of art, fashion, and horticulture set within the breathtaking Temperate House at Kew Gardens before it finishes on 2 November.
Drawing on Kew’s world-renowned scientific collections, this inspiring exhibition uncovers the deep connections between plants, textiles, and sustainability, showing how the natural world influences the clothes we wear today and the choices we can make for a greener tomorrow. This free event is included with general entry (and for Boundless members), but prior booking is required.
For an added twist, don’t miss Material World After Hours – an evening of DJ sets, live performances, delicious food, and refreshing drinks, all against the backdrop of the illuminated Temperate House. This after-hours event is ticketed.
See our pick of seasonal highlights at Kew and Wakehurst.
Boundless members get unlimited access to Kew Gardens and Wakehurst. Members also get 50% off entry for an additional adult, free entry for up to five children and a 10% discount in the Kew shop, both online and in store.
Cheer on the Veteran Car Run, London to Brighton
Credit: Getty Images
London and Brighton, 2 November
Witness the world's oldest motoring event as hundreds of pre-1905 vehicles embark on a 60-mile journey from London's Hyde Park to Brighton's Madeira Drive. This year's event commemorates the 125th anniversary of the pioneering 1,000 Mile Trial.
The run begins at sunrise, with the first cars departing at 6:56 AM, and continues until approximately 4:30 PM. For the best viewing spots and estimated timings, check the online spectator route guide.
If you’re passionate about classic vehicles and would like to take part in displays and events, then the Boundless Classic Vehicle Group is a great way to connect with other car enthusiasts.
Pay your respects at the Tower Remembers
Tower of London, London, until 11 November
A special commemorative display of nearly 30,000 ceramic poppies has been installed inside the Tower of London to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
The striking installation, designed by Tom Piper and featuring the original poppies created by Paul Cummins for 2014’s Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red, forms a “wound” across the Tower’s lawn, symbolising loss and remembrance. Open until 11 November, a special moment of remembrance will be held on Armistice Day.
You can view the striking display from outside the Tower’s grounds for free. But for a closer look, entry is included with admission, which is unlimited for Boundless Plus members.
Boundless Plus members get unlimited access to the Tower of London (as well as all other Historic Royal Palaces sites) and can take an additional adult and two children.
Walk this way – November Weekend Trail: Little Belhus
Thurrock, Essex, 16 November
Pull on your walking boots and step back in time as you follow historic pilgrimage routes through Thurrock. This welcoming and inclusive walk forms part of the T100 Festival of Walking, Talking & Making, a community celebration featuring 10 walks over 10 miles in 10 days – the inspiration behind its name. Free to attend, prior booking is required.
Join Boundless Plus
The Ramblers is a great way to start your walking journey, with thousands of guided walks and routes available to members. What’s more, Boundless Plus members benefit from free access to the Ramblers.
Finding a group couldn’t be simpler: just enter your postcode on the Ramblers website and you’ll see which of their 500 local groups is nearest to you.
Free events in the South West & Wales
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Pond dipping at WWT Llanelli
WWT Llanelli, 1 & 2 November
Join an expert-led pond dipping session at WWT Llanelli and explore the fascinating world of pond life. Use nets to gently collect aquatic invertebrates, insects, and tiny pond animals, then examine your discoveries up close before safely returning them to their habitat.
Get a closer look at the tiniest creatures with a powerful microscope and learn about the amazing adaptations that help them thrive in their watery environment. Perfect for families and children of all ages, this drop-in activity is a fun and educational 45-minute session that brings you closer to wetland wildlife.
Boundless members have access to all WWT sites. Visit WWT Llanelli website for the latest info and ticket prices.
As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.
Watch the flaming Tar Barrels
Ottery St Mary, Devon, 5 November
In the small Devon town of Ottery St Mary, villagers take part in a dramatic and unusual tradition: carrying flaming barrels of tar through the streets on their backs. The barrels grow larger as the evening progresses, culminating in a huge final blaze paraded at midnight. Though its origins remain a mystery, this fiery spectacle is a historic community celebration.
Alongside the barrel runs, you can also enjoy traditional fireworks, a bustling fairground, and a towering 30ft bonfire. The Tar Barrels is free to attend, but please note that it attracts large crowds, so take care if attending with young children.
Be amazed at Being Human Festival
Cardiff and Swansea, 6-15 November
The UK’s national Being Human Festival returns this November, celebrating humanities research through public engagement under this year’s theme, ‘Between the Lines’.
Cardiff and Swansea Universities host a free programme of events, including creative workshops, storytelling, guided tours, and interactive exhibitions that explore hidden histories, culture, and identity.
Open to all ages, the festival offers the opportunity to engage with research, reflect on overlooked narratives, and connect with communities across Wales.
Browse the monthly Newent market
Newent, Gloucestershire, 15 November
Newent has a market tradition dating back to its first Royal Charter in 1226. Today, the Gloucestershire market town hosts the monthly Newent Market, offering a tempting mix of local produce, unique crafts, and handmade goods.
If you fancy making a weekend of it, Whitemead Forest Park is the perfect place for a forest break for families of all ages. Read on to discover how this family enjoyed their stay.
Boundless members can enjoy a saving of up to 20% on their stay at Whitemead Forest Park, on top of any other current offers available. This applies to its variety of accommodation options, including glamping pods, log cabins, and apartments.
Frome Lantern Parade and Christmas Light Switch On
Frome, Somerset, 21 November
Experience the festive magic at Frome’s Christmas Light Switch On and Lantern Parade. Ahead of the Christmas light switch-on, a spectacular lantern parade of magical handmade lanterns created by schools, community groups, and families flows through the town centre.
With live music, street entertainment, and vendors selling festive food and drink, the Lantern Parade is the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season.
Free events in the Midlands & East
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Get into the festive spirit at Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market
Birmingham, 1 November - 24 December
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest authentic German Christmas Market outside of Germany and Austria.
Spread across Victoria Square and New Street, the market offers traditional German food and drink, such as bratwurst and glühwein, alongside handcrafted gifts. Expect live music, traditional fairground rides and an ice rink for added fun.
Catch a film at Birmingham Film Festival
Birmingham 14–23 November
Love films and looking for your next cinematic fix? The Birmingham Film Festival is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a good film for free while supporting emerging talent.
This 10-day international celebration showcases over 200 professional and independent films from around the world. Featuring a wide range of film genres, it’s a great chance to see something different. There are 350 seats available for free screenings, so visit the website to book your seat.
Free events in the North of England
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Join a Fungi Walk
Washington, 9 November
Often overlooked but essential to life on Earth, fungi play a vital role in maintaining ecosystems and providing sustainable food sources.
Celebrate these fascinating organisms on a free guided, hour-long walk at WWT Washington, perfect for everyone from curious beginners to seasoned wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Join an expert for a hands-on opportunity to sharpen your identification skills while exploring the weird and wonderful world of fungi.
Revel in the glow at Light Up at the North Light Festival
Various locations, including Lancaster, Bradford and Durham, across the North of England, multiple dates in November
This November, the North of England will shine brighter than ever as the Light Up the North festival continues to illuminate towns and cities across the region.
With locations including Lancaster, Bradford and Durham, among others, wrap up warm and experience a captivating display of light installations, live performances, and interactive art. Each festival is free to attend and suitable for all ages.
Watch Silver Jubilee Bridge Fireworks
Runcorn, Cheshire, 3 November
Head to the Silver Jubilee Bridge along the River Mersey in Runcorn to watch a spectacular free riverside fireworks display.
Enjoy music and a spectacular LED light show on the newly upgraded bridge, before the fireworks light up the sky at 7pm. This is a popular show with thousands of spectators, so try to arrive early to secure the best view.
Join daily feeds of thousands of migratory birds
Lancashire, Daily until 15 March 2026
Join the wardens at WWT Martin Mere to witness the incredible spectacle as thousands of wild birds gather to feed at the wetlands.
Hundreds of Whooper swans will be part of the feeding, while the wardens provide fascinating commentary on these magnificent birds and explain why they choose to spend the winter at Martin Mere.
This event is free with general entry, and there’s no need to book – simply drop in to the Discovery hide to take part. Visit WWT Martin Mere website for full details.
Free events in Scotland and Northern Ireland
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Mark Guy Fawkes Night in Kilkeel
Kilkeel, County Down, 3-7 November
Head to Kilkeel for the annual Guy Fawkes family-friendly celebrations. Organised by the Schomberg Society, enjoy a free torchlight parade with marching bands and re-enactors, plus a beacon lighting, fireworks, fire performers, live music, children’s entertainment, and more. If you arrive hungry, there are food and drink stalls available.
Head to Atlantic Sessions for live music
Portrush & Portstewart, Northern Ireland, 13-16 November
Soak up the seaside atmosphere at this lively music festival set against Northern Ireland’s breathtaking Atlantic coast. From traditional and modern folk to indie, rock, and electronic sounds, the line-up blends emerging artists with established names.
Concerts take place across Portrush and Portstewart in venues ranging from cosy bars to bustling restaurants and hotels – and best of all, every performance is free to enjoy.
Take a walk with the National Trust for Scotland's 25 walks
Various National Trust for Scotland locations, anytime
To celebrate 25 years since launching the Footpath Fund Appeal – an ongoing project to restore and maintain hundreds of miles of pathways across Scotland, National Trust for Scotland has launched 25 brilliant walks.
Whether you enjoy a long hike or a family stroll, there’s something for all abilities. Many of the locations are free to access, so pack a picnic and a flask of tea and hit the trail.
Boundless Plus members get unlimited access to National Trust for Scotland places.
Dace the night away at The White Heather Ceilidh Club
Bonnie & Wild, Edinburgh, 27 November
Scotland’s patron saint is honoured on 30 November, but the celebrations start early with this brilliant free ceilidh just days before the big day. Slip on your dancing shoes, grab a partner – or find one on the dance floor – and whirl your way through all the ceilidh classics.
New to the steps? No problem – an expert caller will guide you through every reel and twirl, making it a night of fun for everyone. This event is free to attend, but booking is required.
Free online events
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Boundless online events to join in November
These free online talks are open to all Boundless members – simply register via email to book your place. Don’t forget to add your membership number for the chance to win prizes.
Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus. Enjoy unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.
The History of the Firework
Online, 11 November
In this free online talk for members, John Withington traces the story of fireworks from their ancient beginnings to today’s dazzling global displays.
Once reserved for royalty, they spread across empires, inspiring artists and even serving military purposes. Now a fusion of art and technology, fireworks remain both spectacular and controversial. As an author and TV producer, John uncovers their rich history, cultural influence, and the debates they continue to spark.
The Story of the Tower of London
Online, 18 November
Join Professor Tracy Borman OBE, Chief Historian at Historic Royal Palaces, for a fascinating illustrated talk uncovering 950 years of the Tower of London’s history.
From prisoners and secrets to royal beasts, discover how this legendary fortress has shaped Britain’s past and continues to capture the imagination of millions today.
Boundless members watching can win a copy of The Story of the Tower of London by Tracy Borman.
Agent Zo: The Untold Story of the Fearless WW2 Resistance Fighter Elzbieta Zawacka
Online, 25 November
Uncover the remarkable story of Elżbieta Zawacka, aka ‘Agent Zo’ – the only woman parachuted into Nazi-occupied Poland.
In this powerful online event, author Clare Mulley shares Zo’s daring missions, wartime bravery, and long-hidden legacy, brought to light through fresh archives and interviews. A celebration of courage, resistance, and the overlooked role of women in history.
Boundless members also have the chance to win a copy of Agent Zo during the event!
Do more with Boundless
If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.
With Boundless, you get unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions including Kew Gardens and Wakehurst and WWT centres across the UK, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more. With Boundless Plus, you can enjoy additional benefits, including unlimited access to Historic Royal Palaces sites, National Trust for Scotland places, access to the Ramblers' extensive group walks and routes, and peace of mind with roadside assistance and local recovery by Britannia Rescue.
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