How to spend Thanksgiving in London
Although typically an American holiday, Thanksgiving in London comes into its own with magnificent turkey feasts, slices of pecan pie and cosy autumnal activities. Below is a list of things to give thanks for on November 26.
Mark the season by being out in nature
We can think of no better way to spend a Thanksgiving day in London than with a blustery stroll. Pull on wellies for a pink-cheeked stomp around one of the city’s larger parks. In Richmond Park, the foliage blazes crimson, the air is crisp and the majestic deer sweep through fragrant bracken. While up in Hampstead Heath, conkers glisten in spiky pods, dogs happily splash between muddy puddles and brave swimmers gingerly dip into cold ponds.
Admire autumn’s abundance, fresh from a farm
Lean into the holiday’s more traditional origins as a harvest festival and peruse seasonal produce at one of our favourite greengrocers, the Farm Shop. Just a few minutes' walk from 45 Park Lane, this Mayfair store is stocked to the brim with the finest products straight from their Somerset farm. Pick up a nobbly round gourd to make into a pie or a bottle of golden cider to warm your cockles on chilly nights.
Tuck into a sumptuous feast
Do as the Americans do and gather round the table for a glorious Thanksgiving dinner from CUT at 45 Park Lane. Our three-course menu opens with creamy pumpkin soup and spicy tuna tartare before seamlessly segueing into roast turkey with all the trimmings, including maple-glazed sprouts and sweet potato topped with torched marshmallows. Finish with a slice of zesty key lime pie, before heading to Bar 45 for one of our famous Negronis.
Don’t forget the pies
If you’d prefer to make your own meal, then remove ‘baking dessert’ from your to-do list with one of CUT’s timeless pies. Choose between a deep buttery crust filled with whole pecans and soft caramel or a smooth, delicately spiced pumpkin pie set in flaky pastry. Available for pick-up all week long, including up to Thanksgiving Thursday – making it ideal for last-minute hosting.
Spend time with family and friends
Across the pond, parades and autumnal-themed carnivals keep families entertained. And while London has no equivalent yet, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is the closest. This outdoor funfair has enchanting rides and festive markets that will leave little ones (and grown-ups) giddy with delight. For friend gatherings, we recommend a cosy afternoon in one of the city’s charming pubs. Settle into a burgundy leather booth in The Shaston Arms with a pint or share a chilled bottle of champagne in The Hart’s candlelit bar.
Give some thanks
Beyond the pumpkins and the pies, Thanksgiving is a chance to show your nearest and dearest how much they mean to you. Why not surprise them with a treatment in our subterranean spa? Or nip across the road to The Dorchester’s Cake & Flowers to create a bespoke bouquet bursting with seasonal colours. However you choose to display your gratitude, we’ve got you covered.
For the full American tradition, our sister hotels in LA fit the bill wonderfully. Start the day with a special Thanksgiving brunch at The Beverly Hills Hotel’s iconic Polo Lounge or make it a proper fireside feast at The Restaurant at Hotel Bel-Air.