Celebrate Burns Night 2011 in London

The perfect antidote to the winter blues, Burns Night brings us something to finally cheer about in January. It may not be a traditional London celebration here in the capital but that no reason not to get involved with the Highland celebrations.

For those without any Scottish ancestry and who might be wondering just what gets burnt on this night, Burns supper is in fact a celebration of the life and poetry of the Scottish poet Robert Burns. The suppers are normally held on or near the poet’s birthday, 25 January, and regardless of your Scottish bloodline, everyone is welcome.

Suppers may be either formal or informal most will almost defiantly include a haggis, Scotch whiskey, and the recitation of Burns’ poetry.

Here in London, the opportunities to get involved with this Scottish celebration are plenty. Here’s just a selection:

The Albannach Burns Night

The Albannach’s popular Burns Night is back. This year enjoy a five-course meal while you take in the sights and sounds of a traditional Burns’ night featuring Highland music, reading of Burns poetry, and the toast to the haggis. Book early.

www.albannach.co.uk

Also see our Albannach restaurant review here.

Vinopolis

London’s favorite wine and drinks tasting venue, Vinopolis, is again hosted its Burns Night Scotch Whisky Tasting and Haggis Supper.

Guests celebrate the life and genius of Robert Burns with a tutored Scotch whisky tasting followed by a traditional haggis supper in Brew Wharf Hall. Novices were introduced to Scotland’s most famous drink whilst whisky lovers could take advantage of the opportunity and indulge in a first class array of their favorite single malt Scottish whiskies.

http://www.vinopolis.co.uk/specialevents/burns_night_supper.php

Dalmore Whisky

No party would be complete with a bottle of whisky. The Dalmore is a rare and special single malt whisky making it the perfect finale to a Burns Night feast of haggis, neeps, and tatties. Made from the crystal-clear water of nearby Highlands River Alness, The Dalmore distillery uses an artisan philosophy passed down through generations, resulting in a unique tasting, distinguished liquid.

Available from Harrods and Selfridges.