Whether you’re Scottish or you’re a tourist wanting to sample a truly authentic Burns Night experience, there’s no better place to celebrate Scotland’s best-loved national poet and lyricist than Edinburgh.
Born on 25th January 1759, Robert Burns is still regarded to this very day as one of the pioneers of the Romantic movement, becoming a figurehead for socialism and liberalism and a national icon for Scots worldwide.
If you’re looking for a suitable place to celebrate Burns Night and toast the bard, read on to discover some of the best events being held in the Scottish capital, with traditional ceilidh and haggis aplenty.
Rose Street
For those staying in the city centre of Edinburgh, Rose Street will be alive and kicking with a host of free and ticketed events designed to celebrate the life and times of Rabbie Burns. From drop-in shows to live street performances, these events will help tourists and locals alike to better understand the story of Robert Burns and why he’s still such an inspiration today. The Captivate Theatre will be performing at the Basement Theatre on Rose Street too, presenting ‘Rabbie’ – a musical distilling the life Burns led through his poetry and music.
The National Museum of Scotland
There’s no better place to discover the legacy of Robert Burns than Edinburgh’s National Museum of Scotland. ‘Burns Unbound’ is wheeling its way into the museum on 21st January for a string of activities and performances offering great fun for all the family. From live readings of Burns’ iconic poems to traditional ceilidh dance lessons, you’ll be able to get a real taste of life in 18th century Scotland.
Whiski Rooms
If you’re planning more of an evening celebration, consider reserving a table at Whiski Rooms for their traditional Burns Night Supper. Here, you’ll be able to listen to Edinburgh’s best bagpipes, Burns’ speeches and taste some of the most delicious haggis in the country. All of this whilst overlooking the Mound on the city’s North Bank Street.
The Ghillie Dhu
For another truly authentic Burns Night experience, consider booking a table at The Ghillie Dhu, with Rabbie Burns Night suppers being hosted from 19th to 28th January. Dine in the spectacular setting of The Ghillie Dhu, watch and listen to traditional Scottish folk music, including a live ceilidh band, and take part in the traditional Burns Night toasts. If there’s a group of you visiting Edinburgh this month, this Rabbie Burns Experience should certainly be near the top of your list of things to do.
Of course, if you’re a Scot that doesn’t have time in their busy schedule to join in with the Burns Night festivities, you could always pay homage to the great man himself by enjoying a taste of Scotland in the comfort of your own home. Why not get inspired by Aberdeen-based sandwich bar Melt, why not try and perfect their haggis grilled cheese toastie as explained in this article by Deliveroo? Better still, if you live in the Aberdeen area, you could always order one of Melt’s originals for delivery to your home.
The Burns Night events above are merely the tip of the iceberg in terms of what Edinburgh has to offer to celebrate Rabbie Burns. There is no shortage of other pubs, bars and restaurants planning traditional festivities, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled in the coming days for more information.
