Whether you’re a native Scot staying with us at the Amsterdam Hotel in Earls Court  over the next few weeks, or whether you’re a curious traveller whose itinerary spares no room for a quick trip north of the border, being in London this January doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on the opportunity to celebrate Burns Night.

A tradition dating back all the way to the first years of the 19th century, the event is almost as popular here in the capital as it is in Scotland.

Below, our team offer a complete guide to celebrating Burns Night 2017 in London, complete with our favourite places to pipe in the haggis, toast to the Immortal Memory, and listen to those rousing, spine-tingling bagpipes.

What is Burns Night?

Before we go any further, first a quick overview of Burns Night for Amsterdam Hotel guests who may not be too familiar with this ancient Scottish custom.

In the late 1700s, Scotland’s national poet and celebrated literary figure, Robert Burns, passed away. Five years later, those closest to him gathered together to pay tribute by reading selected pieces of his work and taking part in a supper.

Every year since, similar events which are commonly known as Burns Night celebrations, are held across Scotland and throughout the world.

What Happens on Burns Night in London?

Exactly the same things as happens in Burns’ native Scotland, and indeed, as has happened every year since the tradition began.

Typically, restaurants and entertainment venues close to our South West London hotel will hold a Burns Supper, where the bard’s most famous works are recited, toasts are given, and the traditional Scottish meal of haggis, tatties, and neeps is enjoyed.

Typically, bagpipe music also plays a prominent role in the event, and you may well find that many local events end with Scottish dancing, a rendition of Auld Lang Syne, or other forms of entertainment.

When Does the Burns Supper Take Place?

The event itself takes place each year on or around the bard’s birthday, January 25th. In 2017, the occasion falls on Wednesday, January 25th, and a number of local venues will be holding special events across London.

Venues Celebrating Burns Night Near the Amsterdam Hotel in Earls Court

Whatever your reasons are for wanting to celebrate the event this year, you’ll find plenty to enjoy within a short distance of your Earls Court accommodation.

Here, we’ve listed just a few of our personal favourites.

The Caledonian Club

9 Halkin Street, SW1X 7DR

Standing proudly among the beauty and regality of Belgravia in Kensington and Chelsea, The Caledonian Club will be playing host to the one Burns Night event located closest to our hotel.

The club was established over a century ago to serve as something of an unofficial headquarters for Scotland natives living in London. So, as you’d expect, Burns Night is one of the most important events on their social calendar.

There’s just one drawback; The Caledonian Club is a private members club, so you’ll need to at least be connected to an existing member to gain access to this prestigious black-tie affair.

Ceilidh Club

Hammersmith Town Hall, London, W6 9JU

For something a little less exclusive, and certainly a lot more lively, look no further than London’s famous Ceilidh Club, who will be celebrating Burns Night on six different evenings throughout late January and early February.

Though not quite as traditional as the sit-down supper, toasts, and other formalities, the Hammersmith collective’s event sure do offer a whole lot of fun.

On arrival, you’re welcome to enjoy a traditional Scottish haggis with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes) before dancing the night away to a rousing live band and caller.

Half way through the proceedings, the haggis is piped in and addressed, before more dancing takes revellers up to the end of the evening. At 11pm, the event comes to a close with a rendition of Burns’ most famous work, Auld Lang Syne.

Boisdale of Belgravia

15 Eccleston Street, SW1W 9LX

It would be just about impossible to end our list of Burns Night celebrations in London without mentioning Boisdale, the Scottish-inspired restaurant and live jazz venue located 20 minutes away from our hotel in Belgravia.

Whilst most of Boisdale’s Burns Night celebrations take place at their Canary Wharf location, expect plenty of traditional Scottish dishes and Burns festivities to be taking place at their South West London venue this January 25th.

Celebrate Burns Night in London with The Amsterdam Hotel, Earls Court. Book your stay online today, or call to speak to our team now on 020 7370 5084.