London news · 9 November 2026

Oxford Street Christmas lights to switch on 9 November with Harry Potter theme
Time Out London reports that Oxford Street's 2026 Christmas lights will be switched on on Monday 9 November, with a Harry Potter theme. The event runs from around 2pm to 7pm and is hosted by Sam Thompson.

RMT announces eight 24-hour Tube strikes from November to February
The RMT union has announced eight 24-hour walkouts by London Underground drivers between November 2026 and February 2027. It says it opposes plans for a voluntary four-day week, while ASLEF's organiser criticises the strikes.

Only Great George Street closed all day for Remembrance Sunday march
Time Out London says disruption around the Whitehall Cenotaph march will be minimal, with Great George Street the only road closed to the public all day. Nearby tube stations are expected to be busy, and some Overground and Underground closures apply.

Sadiq Khan set to enter the House of Lords
Londonist reports that Mayor of London Sadiq Khan is set to enter the House of Lords.

Miami's Delano hotel to open a London outpost in 2027
Time Out London reports that the Delano, a Miami Beach hotel that first opened in 1947, will open a London hotel in early 2027. It will overlook Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

Two London museums rank among world's most visited
Time Out London reports that the Natural History Museum and the British Museum were among the world's most visited museums in 2025, according to the Themed Entertainment Association's Global Experience Index. Together they drew more than 13 million visits.

Trafalgar Square Christmas tree arrival date announced
Time Out gives the arrival date of Norway's annual gift tree to Trafalgar Square.

Mandarin Oriental ranked world's most luxurious hotel brand
Time Out reports a ranking by Luxury Travel Intelligence names Mandarin Oriental top, with two London hotels.

Jamiroquai announces O2 Arena shows for July 2027
Time Out gives dates and ticket details for Jamiroquai's London shows marking 30 years of Virtual Insanity.

Proposed 18.5km Overground route and South Kensington station upgrade
Londonist covers a proposed 18.5km Overground route and South Kensington Tube upgrades targeted for 2031.

Heritage-listed Wanstead Park grotto removed from risk register
Londonist lists news that a Wanstead Park grotto is off the Heritage at Risk Register.

City of London Corporation seeks partner for former Barking Power Station site
The City of London Corporation is looking for a long-term partner for the 42-acre former Barking Power Station site in East London. It describes the site as one of East London's most significant regeneration opportunities.

Sir Paul Smith Honoured With Freedom of the City of London
The City of London Corporation has recognised designer Sir Paul Smith with the Freedom of the City of London for his outstanding contribution to British fashion and design. Its newsroom describes the honour as "tailor-made" for him.

London Christmas markets return: opening dates
Time Out lists confirmed opening dates of London's 2026 Christmas markets.

Coach and Horses named best pub in Soho by Time Out
Time Out's food and drink editor, Leonie Cooper, says the Coach and Horses at 29 Greek Street is the Soho pub to drink in. It ranks second on the magazine's 2026 list of London's 50 best pubs.
