March 2020 saw the UK enter its first lockdown, and March 2021 wasn’t much better, with Paddy’s Day falling around a month before pubs reopened their outdoor areas. Fast forward to March 2022, and the victory is so close we can already feel it on the tip of out tongues (tastes a bit like Guinness, if you were wondering).
On March 17, we’ll be celebrating the first proper Paddy’s Day since 2019, so we’d better make the most of it. Here’s how you can enjoy St Patrick’s Day in London this year. I’ll start by pouring the Jameson.
10 Ways to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in London
1. Head to one of London’s brilliant Irish pubs
Because any St Patrick’s Day is bound to feature a pub crawl at some point, right? Whether you fancy a quiet Guinness and some hearty scran, shots of whiskey or live Irish bands, you’re bound to find some excellent craic at one of London’s many Irish pubs. Here’s a few suggestions to get you started — I hope you’ve remembered to book your Fridays off work.
2. Raise a glass with friends old and new at Jameson’s open house event
When you think of Irish Whiskey, you think of Jameson – and the world-renowned brand are putting on a lovely get together for St Patrick’s Day in London. Head down to their open house in Shoreditch throughout this week; which boasts multiple rooms each, with their own unique fun. Whether it’s comedy, live music, cocktail making or just some sweet Jameson drinks you’re after, there’s something for all at this Paddy’s Day party. More information and tickets here.
3. Head to a Lucky St Paddy’s Day party at Skylight
London’s duo of Skylight venues have become pretty popular over the last few years, and it’s not hard to see why with those beautiful views over London’s skyline. Now that the weather is (slightly) picking up, both venues are the perfect spot for a St Patrick’s Day dance. Watch live bands and Irish dancers, boogie to a DJ set or just have a few Jameson cocktails to let loose for this evening of fun.
👉Tickets for Skylight Peckham.
👉Tickets for Skylight Tobacco Dock.
4. Gorge on some mouthwatering Guinness x Crosstown Doughnuts
Don’t fancy a night out on the town? Or maybe you’re saving yourself for the weekend. No bother, but make sure you’re treating yourself to one of these decadent offerings from Guinness and Crosstown. Back by popular demand, it might just be the crossover of the year, and they’ve got a Guinness meets Baileys edition that is making me slightly weak the knees just thinking about. Order anytime before March 20 to get a taste of the action.
5. Head to “London’s Only Non-Stop Live Music Venue” for a boogie
It’s no secret that people like to swing their hips on St Patrick’s Day, so getting down to some live music is usually on the menu. One such place to do just this is at The Piano Works, where the tunes never sleep. On the 17th, guests will be treated to an evening soundtracked by a six-piece band (including a fiddler, obv) and fuelled by £3 pints of Guinness. Who says no? More information here.
6. Munch down on craft pizzas and sip Irish Coffee at Nebula
At Nebula, one of Hackney’s favourite hangouts, you’ll be able to celebrate Paddy’s Day all through the weekend. Kicking off on March 17, they’ll host three days of fun, where you can tackle a full Ulster breakfast – complete with bacon, black pudding and delicious Jameson BBQ sauce – or grab a craft pizza. Plus, the booze is on top form for the occasion, with a devilish Irish coffee and the intriguing limited-edition cocktail Provinces Negroni (made with Jameson Orange, Boatyard Irish gin, vermouth and bitter) being served on each day. Find Nebula at 455 Hackney Road, E2 9DY.
7. Take part in the biggest St Patrick’s Day pub crawl
Yup, you read that right. This probably defines the meaning “go big or go home”, which is what many people like to do on St Patrick’s Day. You’ll start at Zebrano Bar in Soho, and gain queue jump entry to two other cracking central London bars, running from 8pm – 3am. Those partaking will be greeted to each venue with free shots, and gain discounts on other drinks throughout the night. Plus, you’ll receive some complimentary hats, necklaces and more to get in the spirit. Sign of a top night when you stumble home in the free merch, IMO. Get your tickets for the crawl on March 17, 18 or 19 here.
8. Join the gang at The Windmill Paddy’s Pub
Any fans of It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia should make themselves know over at The Windmill Pub in Brixton, which transforms into the bar from the hit show for one night only this Thursday. We can’t confirm if a round of Chardee MacDennis or the Boggs challenge will be played, but there definitely will be an Irish dancing competition and entertainment. Will there be rum ham on the menu? Only one way to find out. Find The Windmill at 22 Blenheim Gardens, Brixton Hill, SW2 5BZ.
Ways to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in London at the weekend
9. Cheer on Ireland in the final weekend of the Six Nations
Ireland might be second in the table, but if results go the right way, the trophy may be covered in green this year. So, you better get in front of a screen, sip down on some Guinness and cheer on the team right up until the 80th minute. On the last day, anything can happen. Ireland vs Scotland takes place at 4:45pm on March 19.
10. Take part in the London St Patrick’s Day run (Hyde Park, 11am)
Horrifying to many, but a 5k run around Hyde Park on Saturday morning may be the perfect way to get yourself in the spirit for a weekend of celebration. We’re forecast for lots of sun this weekend, and a run around the greenery in the springtime is sure to get those endorphins going for your parties later in the day. Book your space here.