This July 4th marks Independence Day. More significantly, it marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. But what if you’re not especially independent of Great Britain yourself?
For Americans in London, celebrating Independence Day can feel a little ironic but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun!
And in 2026, with July 4th falling on a Saturday, there are plenty of different ways that you and your fellow Americans can enjoy a not-so-independent Independence Day in London. What are your options? Grab your Uncle Sam hat or Lady Liberty crown as per your preference and let’s have a look:
Time to party!
Americans in London are a sizable group – and know how to celebrate America’s birthday in style! There are multiple 4th of July parties happening in London this year. One of the biggest is going to be the Independence Day Pub Crawl with drinks across multiple venues, different time slots to keep things moving and a red, white and blue afterparty. If you’re looking for something educational, you can join in a walking tour of London’s Square Mile that reveals the forgotten American history of the area in honor of the 250th. Or, for a family-friendly day out, check out the Independence Cup in Richmond, which will feature a USA vs. UK polo match, live music, activities for kids and a cowboy show.
Yee-haw!
A proper 4th of July feast
You’ll need fuel to party. Depending on where in the United States you’re from, your idea of “American food” can be as diverse as the country itself. Whatever your favorite, London has you covered. Whether you’re looking for a classic burger at MeatLiquor, barbecue at Texas Joe’s or even having Cajun cravings to satisfy at Poor Boys, there’s something for everyone. You can even indulge in an upscale, New England-inspired experience at formal restaurant The Maine in Mayfair.
On the other hand, how about an Anglo-American fusion to celebrate the day? There’s nothing that says “London” like afternoon tea and double-decker buses and nothing that says “America” like July 4th; this year, you can combine the two! The famous Brigit’s afternoon tea bus is hosting a one-day-only special Independence Day tea, with American-style treats as you cruise through London on a classic British double-decker bus.
Fireworks!
For many, it just doesn’t feel like the 4th without fireworks. If you’re looking to mark Independence Day in London with a bang, you have multiple options. One of the most popular is actually DIY! While there are plenty of safety restrictions, it is legal for those over 18 to buy fireworks from specially licensed shops. Set them off after 7 a.m. and before 11 p.m.
If you’d rather not (literally) play with fire, consider joining the Royal Institution on the 4th for a family-friendly event on the science of fireworks. Attendees will learn about the history and chemistry behind one of the most beloved 4th of July traditions.
London Spots for a Pool Party
One popular way to celebrate the 4th of July in the US is with a pool party. This is something you can definitely find a way to do in London! Given the heat wave London is likely to be facing on the 4th, it’s a good idea to go for it.
From the celebrated swimming ponds at Hampstead Heath, where you can swim outdoors surrounded by nature in the middle of the city to iconic hotel rooftop pools, there are plenty of places to take a dip in the city. While hotel pools tend to be for guests only, check on gyms and public swimming pools (“lidos” in British English) near you, where you can often find modestly-priced day passes for an Independence Day splash.
Some All-American … soccer?
While baseball is the All-American pastime, this year, soccer fans have all turned their eyes towards the United States, as America hosts the World Cup. Londoners love soccer (or “football,” as they prefer to call it), so pubs and restaurants across the city will be hosting watch parties, and offering food and drink specials.
It hasn’t yet been determined which teams will be playing on the 4th of July, but you can expect crowds whoever the match-ups are between, given the Saturday timing. Unfortunately, the internet-fueled fantasy of an Independence Day match between England and the United States in Philadelphia isn’t really possible with how the brackets work, but it’s still fun to think about!
However you choose to celebrate, be sure to stay safe, have fun, and have a happy 4th of July!
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See more about London here in Dispatches’ archives.
Read more from Ellery here.
Ellery Weil
Dr. Ellery Weil is a writer and historian based in London. She was born in Washington, DC, raised in Maryland, and attended undergrad in Ann Arbor, Michigan, before moving to the UK to attend grad school at University College London, where she earned her PhD in History. She lives in London with her husband, where you can find her writing, reading, petting dogs in Regent's Park, and exploring the city's antique markets.
