Burns Night falls on 25th January, and although you might think you have to go to Scotland to celebrate properly, cosmopolitan London has got you covered too. The event celebrates the birthday of Robert (or Rabbie) Burns, the national poet of Scotland who was born in 1759. He might not be the Mr Burns you’re most familiar with, but that doesn’t mean you can’t join in the fun. Burns Night is typically marked with a traditional meal of haggis, neeps, and tatties, and there are lots of dinners and parties taking place in the capital this year.
If you want to celebrate in the foodie way, there are many Scottish restaurants in London offering traditional meals – check out our guide to where to eat Scottish food in London. For something even more special, head to Mount St. Restaurant & Rooms in Mayfair, where you can feast on a three course Caledonian menu for the occasion, featuring fine Scottish produce like venison and smoked haddock, and whisky. Canalside restaurant Rotunda is also hosting an indulgent dinner with courses like Scottish mussels and a raspberry cranachan truffle. If fine dining isn’t your thing, Barge East is the perfect antidote – their six course menu for Burns Night includes Scotch pie and the notorious deep-fried Mars bar, with live music and dancing to keep you going.
For those of you who are more in the mood for a party this Burns Night, check out The Sun Tavern in Bethnal Green. This pub has the city’s largest collection of Irish whiskey, but for Burns Night the drinks list centres on tempting cocktails made with proper Scottish whisky. Munch on haggis balls and get dancing whilst you enjoy yours. For a more traditional celebration, you’ll also find energetic ceilidh dances going on around the city, typically run by local groups. Whether you prefer a quiet celebration or you want to be dancing all night, London has plenty of fun ways to get into the spirit of Burns Night this year.
