Burns Night is a celebration honouring the life and work of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns (1759-1796).
The tradition dates back to 1801, when a group of Burns’ friends gathered in his family home in Alloway to commemorate the fifth anniversary of his death. The evening included a meal, performances of Burns’ poetry, and lively discussions about his contributions to literature and Scottish culture.
As the years progressed, the tradition evolved into an annual celebration held on or around Burns’ birthday, January 25th. A Burns Supper consists of distinct elements: the “piping in” of guests, the traditional haggis meal, the “Address to a Haggis” recitation, and toasts, including the “Immortal Memory” tribute to Burns and a “Toast to the Lassies.”
Burns Night has transcended its Scottish roots, with enthusiasts worldwide revelling in the cultural heritage, enjoying the festive spirit, and honouring Burns’ enduring legacy in poetry and song.
Here we have rounded up the best places around the UK to celebrate Burns Night this January…
The Mutton at Hazeley Heath
Experience an unforgettable evening of Scottish tradition, bold flavours, and lively melodies at The Mutton at Hazeley Heath as they host “A Taste of Scotland” in celebration of Burns Night.
Kicking off at 6:30pm on Thursday 23rd January, the event will honour Scotland’s beloved Bard, Robert Burns, with a five-course feast that’s a love letter to Scottish cuisine. Head Chef, Rob Boer, has pulled together a menu that celebrates the best that The Scots have to offer, you’ll be tucking into:
- Peppered Mutton Pie
- Smoked Haddock Fish Cake with Cock-a-Leekie Sauce and a Slow-Cooked Egg
- Roasted Beef Rump accompanied by Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties Suet Pudding
- A palate-cleansing Irn Bru Sorbet
- Dundee Cake Trifle with Whisky Jelly and Shortbread
All of this will be paired with the soul-stirring sounds of traditional bagpipers and a dram or two of whisky, making for an evening of celebration, culture, and plenty of laughter.
This event is the second in The Mutton’s ‘A Taste of’ series, with the first being a sellout. Housed in a lovingly restored 19th-century post office, The Mutton is an award-winning, family-run gem that’s as much about atmosphere as it is about incredible food. With a roaring fire, soft lighting, and the warmest of welcomes, it’s the perfect backdrop for a cosy winter gathering.
Tickets are £55 and can be booked here: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/themuttonathazeleyheath/a-taste-of-scotland—thursday-23rd-january-4775701523218432
The Mutton at Hazeley Heath
Hazeley Heath, Hook, RG27 8NB
01252 221090
reservations@themuttonhh.co.uk
Burns Night at Studio Five
Calling all lads and lassies! Gather ‘round this Burns Night at Studio Five and raise a glass to Scotland’s beloved bard, Rabbie Burns with a three-course set menu that is a true celebration of Scottish culinary traditions. From scrumptious starters to indulgent desserts, this is an evening not to be missed at Wembley Park.
Begin your evening with smoky whiskey cured salmon served with crispy oatcakes. For mains, choose between traditional haggis or the equally tasty vegetarian haggis, both served with classic neeps and tatties (that’s turnips and potatoes for those new to Scottish fare). Round off your meal with a delicious sticky toffee pudding drizzled with whiskey caramel sauce. Although drinks aren’t included, Studio Five’s expertly curated drinks menu features the perfect pairings including an Old Fashioned or a dram of Monkey Shoulder Scotch Whiskey.
Whether you’re a Scot longing for a nostalgic taste of home or a local who’s intrigued by the haggis, neeps and tatties, book your table now to enjoy Studio Five’s Bonnie Scottish set menu for only £36 per person.
RAILS Restaurant, Great Northern Hotel | Kings Cross
Enjoy a memorable Burns Night at RAILS Restaurant with a special set menu. Begin with the limited-edition ‘Ae Fond Kiss’ cocktail, blending Scottish whisky with passionfruit and chilli before the starter of hearty Cullen Skink soup, followed by haggis with neeps, tatties and whisky sauce, and finishing with a traditional Cranachan dessert. Available from 23rd–25th January for lunch and dinner, with prices from £30 or £40 with the cocktail.
RAILS Restaurant, Great Northern Hotel, Pancras Road, London, N1C 4TB
️ Book: www.railslondon.com/reservations
Bohemia, The Club Hotel & Spa Jersey | Jersey
Celebrate Burns Night with an exquisite supper hosted in The Club’s elegant private dining rooms. The evening features Head Chef Callum Graham’s sophisticated takes on Scottish classics including Cullen Skink, Scottish Beef & Haggis Wellington, and a modern Cranachan dessert. Paired with exceptional Scottish whiskies and accompanied by the stirring sounds of a traditional piper, this evening promises to be a memorable tribute to Scotland’s rich heritage.
Bohemia, Green St, St Helier, Jersey JE2 4UH, Jersey
️ Book: www.bohemiajersey.com
PIVOT Bar and Bistro in Covent Garden
Experience a taste of Scotland in the heart of London overlooking Covent Garden’s piazza while you enjoy a three-course dinner of quintessential Scottish treats traditionally served on Burns’ Night.
To start, Cock-A-Leekie with chicken, bacon, prunes and leeks will warm the insides, with a range of whiskies also available for anyone keen. Main course is Haggis, Neeps and Tatties Piewith haggis, swede and potato mash and to finish, there’s Cranachan Pavlova, with raspberries, meringue and whisky.
This fabulous meal will pay homage to the best ingredients of the winter season while champioining humble root veg, as Pivot looks to all that is warm and comforting to brighten the dark January days.
Dishes are priced individually: £7.75 for the starter, £15.75 for the main, and £7.75 for the dessert.
XI Home launches limited Whisky Cocktails and Haggis Dumplings for Burn’s Night
2 January – Did somebody say haggis dumplings? In celebration of Burn’s Night (25th January 2025), XI Home Dumplings Bay, the dumpling hotspot on Blossom St London E1, is launching haggis special and a menu of innovative whisky cocktails, running 4th January to 28th February.
The delicious Haggis Dumplings come in 10 pieces for £11.80. Soft doughy dumpling shells are encased in the sweet and salty meat filling, synonymous with Burn’s Night and all things Scottish.
Alongside the dumplings, a limited five-part cocktail range consists of classics with special twists, masterminded by the XI Home team. Fortune High (whisky highball) is perfect for those that enjoy a refreshing long cocktail, and features whisky, soda and Toki milk punch to balance the sharpness of the spirit. The cocktail pairs wonderfully with Dan Dan Spicy Noodles, as well as steamed chicken with chilli sauce.