From cinema festivals, traditional Irish style dinners to good old-fashioned merrymaking parties, here are some ideas for celebrating St Patrick’s Day in London.
Whether you’re Irish or not, St Patrick’s Day is arguably one of the most exciting days of the year. While you might expect Dublin to be the world’s party capital on this particular day, London’s celebrations are not to be overlooked. In fact, you might even find things get even wilder in London.
St Patrick’s Day celebrations are unlike any other parties you’ll find throughout the rest of the year and the good vibes are utterly infectious. If you want to join in the madness this year, here are some of our favourite spots to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in London on and around March 17. After a two-year hiatus, it’s only right to celebrate in style this year.
1. The St Patrick’s Day Festival and Parade, Central London
Although St Patrick’s Day falls on a Thursday, London’s St Patrick’s Day parade will be held on Sunday, March 13. This parade sees a sea of people dressed in green winding their way along the 1.5-mile route from Hyde Park Corner to Trafalgar Square. The energy is electric and there is always plenty of live music, dancing, and street food on offer. This year’s festivities kick off at noon and finish at 6 pm.
2. St Patrick’s Day Film Festival, Riverside Studios
In association with the previously mentioned festival and parade, London also plays host to the St Patrick’s Day Film Festival. For the entire weekend this cinema will play films, short clips, documentaries, and much more – all tied to Ireland and Irish culture. Whether you’re looking to learn more about Ireland or you’re Irish heritage or simply want some nostalgia and familiarity, this is a fun and educational event to enjoy with the family on St Patrick’s Day. Some hits to look for are Foscadh, The Secret of Kells, and Wolf. Due to the pandemic, some screenings will also be shown online.
3. Irish Pub Pod, London Eye
What better way to celebrate the most Irish day of the year than by visiting one of London’s most popular attractions? This year, put on your drinking shoes and head to the London Eye because the Irish Pub Pod is returning. One of the 32 pods will transform into an Irish bar just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. A full-functioning bar, a dartboard, and two Jameson drinks will be on offer while taking in the best views of the city. Don’t forget, the wheel will be lit up green too!
4. Paddy’s Fest, FIRE Nightclub
As the name suggests, Paddy’s Fest commemorates all things Irish in a night of drinks and debauchery at this venerated venue. The décor of the nightclub will pay homage to the Emerald Isle, so expect leprechauns and the Irish flag to be plastered across the walls. There will be music, traditional Irish food, face painting, Irish dancing, and, of course, Guinness on tap.
5. Club de Fromage, Islington Academy
Club de Fromage (Cheese Club in English) is exactly what it says on the tin. A Night of the cheesiest music for you to make merry and bust some moves. On Saturday, March 14, this renowned nightclub will be hosting a St Patrick’s Day special. In honour of the St Patrick, the DJs will be blasting tunes from the most beloved Irish artists. Think Westlife, B*Witched, U2 and so much more. Website
6. St Patrick’s Day Run, Hyde Park
Some people’s idea of celebrating consists of exercising. So, if that is you, then head over for the second annual St. Patrick’s Day Run. Taking place at 11 am on March 19, the 5k run will start at the Wellington Arch and go around the perimeter of one of London’s best parks, Hyde Park. The festivities continue with a social get-together at an Irish-themed bar, so keep up your happy-green spirit. Shake off that nasty old hangover and join this run to burn off all the Guinness you’ve been drinking in the last couple of days.
7. St Patrick’s Day Cabaret Show & Dinner, Phoenix Arts Club
Why not spend this St Patrick’s Day with an Irish-style dinner and show? (And a taste of cabaret). Located in the Soho area, the Phoenix Arts Club will host a three-course meal, with vegan options available, and will promise you a night full of fun. From comedians and local musical stars to traditional Irish burlesque and dancers, the entertainment will be second to none. Guinness will be on tap, so you can get into the St Patrick’s Day spirit. Doors open at 6:30, while showtime kicks off at 7:30 pm.
Spending St. Patrick’s Day in London? Check out these experiences to help explore the city:
Cover photo: garryknight on VisualHunt.com / CC BY
