
A travel company called Active England is hosting one of the more unique America250 celebrations: A walking tour that showcases the nation’s English origins.
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After all, the United States began as an English colony—we even use the term New England to describe the Northeast. (Some areas were also colonized by France, Spain, the Netherlands, and even Sweden, but we don’t often claim them.)
In short, once upon a time, we were but a twinkle in England’s eye. And the country is home to places like George Washington’s ancestral home, and carries many historical markers that tie back to the United States, both pre- and post-independence. (Let’s not forget: Washington likely had a British twang to his accent.)
If you’re looking to travel this summer and want to make sure you still get some of that America250 flair, you’ve got options. Here’s what to expect from the walking tour available from Active England.
How to celebrate America250 in England on the 1776 Tour

Active England, a company that offers bespoke cycling and walking tours across the UK, is currently offering a five-day tour called ‘1776 – The 250th Anniversary of American Independence’.
The 1776 adventure is a guided walking tour (no cycling on this trip) that takes you from London to Oxford, including stops in the gorgeous Cotswolds and a visit to Blenheim Palace, a World Heritage Site.
You’ll explore historic manor houses, walk alongside winding rivers, and discover dozens of subtle nods to the year 1776. Best of all, you don’t need to book the trip over the Fourth of July. You can book this trip whenever it works best for you. Each booking includes a professional guide, private transfers, lodging, and meals.
Your journey begins in London, where you’ll dig deep into American history in the capital—including a visit to Benjamin Franklin’s London home. From there, you’ll head into the countryside and have the chance to admire the Cotswolds, which is also home to George Washington’s ancestral homelands.
The five-day trip ends with a visit to Blenheim, a famous symbol of Britain’s aristocracy and its imperial might during the 1700s. (You can dive deep into the itinerary here.)
