4 brilliant things to do this November

From a new documentary to amazing illuminations, here’s our pick of the best cultural events to enjoy this November

It’s Nicer to be Nice, by Eve De Haan (commissioned by Hive Curates for Enfield Winter Lights). Photo: James Mason Palmers Green

See cutting-edge art by the seaside

Take in bracing sea air and displays of art in the East Sussex coastal town of Eastbourne this month. To coincide with the Turner Prize exhibition at Towner Eastbourne, a series of events, performances and public art pieces will be on show across the town as part of the ALIVE festival. Among the highlights is an exhibition taking place across seafront hotels on the theme of ‘promenade’, a text sculpture from Turner Prize nominee Nathan Coley and a ‘healing garden’ from Eve De Haan. 

Eastbourne ALIVE, various locations, until April 2024

eastbournealive.co.uk

Kenilworth Road Kids, Cruddas Park, Juvenile Jazz Bands (1979), by Tish Murtha. Image: Ó Ella Murtha, all rights reserved

Discover the story of an astounding photographer

This tribute to documentary photographer Tish Murtha paints a portrait of an artist-as-activist, who dedicated her practice to chronicling the lives of working-class communities in the north-east of England, where she grew up. She turned her lens on the realities and hardships of the area in the Thatcher era, producing electrifying works, yet has only recently found critical acclaim following her death, in poverty, in 2013. Director Paul Sng speaks to those who knew her, including her daughter, Ella, alongside diary entries and letters narrated by Maxine Peake. 

TISH by Paul Sng is being released by Modern Films in UK cinemas on 17 November 

modernfilms.com/tish

Chester Literature Festival 

Enjoy a literary moment in Chester

Chester Literature Festival returns with a star-studded line-up hosted at Storyhouse, featuring names from the worlds of broadcasting, comedy, poetry and more. Sign up for an evening with Monty Don as he discusses his new no-nonsense gardening book, hear Andi Oliver speak on her melting pot of culinary influences, or perhaps join a workshop on how to write your own book – and get it published!

Chester Literature Festival, Storyhouse, 9–26 November

storyhouse.com/seasons/chester-literature-festival-2023

Christmas at Longleat​

Be amazed by illuminations at Longleat

One for all the family: immerse yourselves in the worlds of Narnia, the Emerald City, Cinderella’s castle and much more at Longleat Safari Park, where life-sized animal lanterns take centre stage. Alongside the incredible illuminated walk, expect to see an enormous 15-metre Christmas tree complete with flurries of snow, take a ride on Santa’s train, and enjoy a fabulous light display over the stately home and fountains. 

11 November 2023–7 January 2024

longleat.co.uk