Thanksgiving in London, England: A Little Slice of Home Across the Pond

If you’re an American spending Thanksgiving in London, England this year, you might be wondering: Will it even feel like Thanksgiving? The short answer is—yes. Just with a British twist.

Sure, it’s not a public holiday in the UK, but Thanksgiving in London still feels special. Between comforting turkey dinners, historic streets draped in autumn leaves, and cozy places to gather with friends or fellow travelers, there’s no reason you can’t have a memorable Thanksgiving abroad.

Where to Find a Thanksgiving Meal in London

One of the best parts of Thanksgiving is the food, and thankfully, London delivers. Around mid-November, several spots across the city start offering traditional Thanksgiving dinners. Think roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and even pumpkin pie.

Some local favorites to check out:

• Christopher’s (Covent Garden): A classic American grill with a beautiful Thanksgiving set menu.

• The Blues Kitchen (Shoreditch or Camden): Southern-style comfort food and live music to boot.

• The Riding House Café: Warm, welcoming vibes and family-style dining.

It’s a good idea to book ahead—these places fill up quickly, especially with expats and American travelers looking for that taste of home.

What to Do Before (or After) the Big Meal

Thanksgiving in London gives you a chance to blend two cultures—so why not explore the city before sitting down to your feast?

Start your day with a walk through Hyde Park or Regent’s Park, where the golden leaves are perfect for setting the fall mood. Or, check out the festive lights and early Christmas markets popping up around Oxford Street and Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.

You could also dive into something uniquely British, like an afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason or a visit to a historic pub. This is where a custom travel itinerary really comes in handy—you can build your day around the holiday, but still explore London your way.

Creating Your Perfect Thanksgiving Day in London

Whether you’re here for a few days or making London your home for a while, planning a thoughtful itinerary helps the day feel special. Here’s an easy, relaxed Thanksgiving itinerary you can follow or tweak:

• Morning: Coffee and a pastry in Notting Hill, followed by a walk through Portobello Market.

• Late Morning: Visit the Tate Modern or wander along the South Bank.

• Afternoon: A little downtime or a pint at a local pub.

• Evening: Enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner at one of the restaurants above.

• After Dinner: Catch a West End show or take a quiet walk by the Thames.

If planning all of this feels a bit much, don’t worry—a personal vacation planner can help you map everything out, make your reservations, and even suggest hidden gems you might miss otherwise.

Final Thoughts

Spending Thanksgiving in London, England, might not feel traditional at first, but that’s what makes it special. It’s a chance to celebrate what the holiday is really about: feeling grateful, sharing good food, and making memories with the people you’re with (or the new friends you meet).

With a custom travel itinerary and a little help from a personal vacation planner, you can turn a regular Thursday in London into a meaningful and heartwarming Thanksgiving, no matter where you are in the world.