Spending Thanksgiving in the UK? You are not alone. Thousands of American expats, students, and visitors celebrate every year, and plenty of Brits now join in too. Thanksgiving isn't a holiday in Britain, so it takes a little planning, but you can still find a proper turkey dinner, catch the football, and gather friends for a feast. In 2026, Thanksgiving falls on Thursday 26 November.
Here is how to celebrate Thanksgiving in the UK, from restaurants and Friendsgiving ideas to where to find pumpkin pie.
What Is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is an American holiday held on the fourth Thursday of November. It traces its roots to a 1621 harvest feast shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people, and became a national holiday in 1863. Today, it centers on family, football, and a huge meal of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Canada celebrates its own Thanksgiving in October.
Where to Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in the UK
London
London has the most choice by far. American-style diners, barbecue restaurants, steakhouses, and hotel restaurants often run Thanksgiving set menus on the Thursday or the weekend after. Expect turkey with all the trimmings, sweet potato casserole, and pecan or pumpkin pie. Book early, because popular places fill up weeks in advance.
Edinburgh and Scotland
A few restaurants and bars in Edinburgh and Glasgow serve Thanksgiving menus, sometimes with a Scottish twist, such as local game or whisky-glazed sides. American expat groups and university societies also host dinners.
Manchester, Birmingham, and the rest of the UK
Look for American diners, BBQ joints, and gastropubs advertising Thanksgiving specials. Social media and expat groups are the best way to find events near you.
Host a Friendsgiving at Home
For many people in the UK, Thanksgiving means Friendsgiving, a potluck with friends on the nearest weekend. A few tips:
- Order your turkey early. Butchers and supermarkets stock them, but many are geared up for Christmas, so pre-order for late November.
- Find American ingredients. Canned pumpkin, cranberry sauce, and marshmallows for sweet potatoes are available in larger supermarkets, specialist American food shops, and online.
- Remember the oven size. British ovens are often smaller than American ones. A turkey crown or a smaller bird may be easier.
- Share the cooking. Ask each guest to bring a side dish or dessert.
Thanksgiving With a British Twist
- Add Yorkshire puddings or pigs in blankets to the table.
- Serve sticky toffee pudding alongside the pumpkin pie.
- Toast with English cider or a local craft beer.
- Take a post-dinner walk in a park, a very British tradition.
Classic Thanksgiving Activities in the UK
- Watch the NFL: Thanksgiving Day games are shown in sports bars across the UK, usually in the evening because of the time difference.
- Volunteer: Food banks and charities welcome volunteers in the run-up to winter.
- Say thanks: Go around the table and share what you are grateful for.
Tips for Thanksgiving in the UK
- Celebrate at the weekend if you can't take Thursday off. Most British workplaces are open.
- Book restaurants early, because the season clashes with Christmas party bookings.
- Video call family back home around their dinner time. An egoViet UK eSIM gives visitors reliable data for calls without roaming fees. See our guide to making calls with a data-only eSIM.
Staying on for the holidays? See things to do in London in December and the best Christmas markets in the UK.
FAQs: Thanksgiving in the UK
Do people celebrate Thanksgiving in the UK?
It isn't a British holiday, but American expats and many Brits celebrate with dinners, Friendsgiving parties, and restaurant set menus.
When is Thanksgiving in 2026?
Thursday 26 November 2026, the fourth Thursday of November.
Can I get a turkey in the UK in November?
Yes, but pre-order from a butcher or supermarket, as most turkey stock arrives for Christmas.
Where can I watch Thanksgiving NFL games in the UK?
Many sports bars show the games in the evening. Check listings and book a table, as they get busy.