St Patrick’s Day in London

01 Marzo, 2023
londonbackpackers

When it comes to St Patrick’s Day in London, the city’s Irish community will certainly show you how it’s done. On Tue, Mar 17, 2026, a day to celebrate the Patron Saint of Ireland, expect an action-packed schedule full of dancing, parades, pub crawls, and hearty traditional dishes to delight your taste buds. If you’re looking for a youth hostel to use as a base while you explore the city and culture, London Backpackers offers a welcoming stay with everything you need, including tips and advice to make the most of your travels. Located near Hendon Central, there are also a handful of great Irish bars close by, making it easy to enjoy Irish culture without venturing too far. Here are our top recommendations to experience St Patrick’s Day in London 2026:

1. Parade and festival

Join the parade on Sunday, 15 March 2026 to celebrate Irish culture and heritage. Starting at Hyde Park Corner and making its way through the city to Trafalgar Square, this lively parade features Irish bands, dancers, music and food stalls, workshops, and more, perfect for a fun-filled family day out. Don your best green attire and join thousands of people parading through London, before settling down at a local Irish pub for a pint. St Patrick’s Day is a popular travel and celebration time, so plan ahead for accommodation. London Backpackers provides a safe, budget-friendly stay to enjoy your weekend festivities.

2. Bar Rumba

For a long night of partying and drinking, Bar Rumba hosts one of the biggest St Patrick’s Day events in London’s West End! Only 20 minutes from the hostel, this nightclub is known for its lively atmosphere and great music, from Paddy classics to throwback R&B. Dress in your finest green fancy dress, enjoy a range of beers, and dance the night away. It promises to be a memorable festive night with friends!

3. Camden Party Pub Crawl

Celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Camden, indulging in delicious food and hopping from pub to pub Irish-style. This famous pub crawl offers a party host, free shots, discounted drinks, and a photographer to capture all the fun moments. Camden’s unique character and nightlife make it an unforgettable celebration, just a 10-minute Northern Line ride from London Backpackers Hostel.

4. Waxy O’Connor’s

Enjoy a warm Irish welcome at Waxy O’Connor’s, an award-winning bar offering traditional homemade dishes and an extensive range of spirits, beers, and Irish whiskeys. Spread across six levels with four unique bars, Waxy’s provides a friendly, lively atmosphere. During St Patrick’s week, enjoy live music, giveaways, free entry, and endless kegs of Guinness. London Backpackers is close enough to Central London for convenience while providing a safe, comfortable space to rest after celebrating.

5. Shamrock Sessions at O’Neill’s

Join the Shamrock Sessions at O’Neill’s in Soho on Sunday, 15 March 2026, from 12:00–22:00 for an evening of traditional Irish music and dance performances. Enjoy live tunes from talented local musicians and interactive Irish dance displays. The festive atmosphere is perfect for families, friends, or solo travellers looking to soak in authentic Irish culture. Entry is free; food and drinks are paid.

6. Traditional Irish Music at The Auld Shillelagh

Celebrate St Patrick’s Day with live Irish music and sing-alongs at The Auld Shillelagh in Stoke Newington from 14-16 March 2026, during afternoon and evening hours. Visitors can enjoy authentic pub fare including hearty stews and freshly poured pints of Guinness. This vibrant local pub provides an intimate and lively setting for experiencing genuine Irish culture in London. Free entry: food and drinks paid.

7. Albert’s Schloss St Patrick’s Celebrations

Albert’s Schloss in Soho hosts Irish-themed celebrations from 14–17 March 2026, all day. Guests can enjoy Irish-inspired dishes, live bands, and folk singers roaming the venue, creating a festival-like atmosphere. Additional entertainment includes roaming musicians and interactive experiences, making it a great destination for groups or solo visitors seeking a fun, cultural day out. Entry is free; food and drinks are paid.

8. Berners Tavern’s St Patrick’s Irish Revue

Experience Berners Tavern’s St Patrick’s Irish Revue on Sunday, 15 March 2026, from 12:00–16:00 at Oxford Street. The event combines a themed lunch with live Irish dancing, drag performances, and elegant cocktails. It offers a refined yet festive environment for guests to enjoy Irish culture alongside a culinary experience. Cost varies depending on menu selections.

9. Live Ceilidh Band at The Audley

The Audley Public House in Mayfair hosts live ceilidh bands on Sunday, 15 March 2026, from 14:00–18:00. Visitors can join in traditional Irish dances or simply enjoy watching talented performers. This event provides a family-friendly, lively atmosphere that blends music, dance, and social interaction for an authentic Irish experience. Free entry: food and drinks are paid.

10. Guinness Tiramisu at Pastaio

From 14–17 March 2026, Pastaio in Soho serves a limited-edition Guinness tiramisu during lunch and dinner hours. This creative dessert fuses the rich flavour of Ireland’s famous stout with classic Italian tiramisu. Food lovers and curious travellers alike can indulge in a unique culinary twist perfect for St Patrick’s Day. Cost varies; reservations recommended.

11. Special Irish Menu at Langan’s Brasserie

Langan’s Brasserie in Mayfair offers a St Patrick’s Day special menu on Sunday, 15 March 2026, from 12:00–15:00. Guests can enjoy a selection of Irish-inspired dishes, including smoked salmon canapés, Guinness-braised short rib, and an Irish coffee trifle. The meal is complemented by a complimentary Jameson glass, creating a festive and indulgent experience. Paid event; booking recommended.

12. Bottomless Guinness at Market Place

Market Place venues in Vauxhall, Peckham, and Harrow host bottomless Guinness events on Sunday, 15 March 2026, from 12:00–16:00. Patrons can enjoy unlimited pints of Guinness accompanied by a food voucher for a hearty Irish-inspired meal. Perfect for groups, this event combines socialising, great drinks, and a festive atmosphere. Paid event: prices vary by location.

13. Big Penny Social St Patrick’s Party

Celebrate at Big Penny Social in Walthamstow on Sunday, 15 March 2026, from 12:00–23:00 with Irish-themed entertainment, live music, and traditional snacks. Guests can enjoy a mix of Irish folk, contemporary tunes, and hearty drinks throughout the day. This full-day celebration is ideal for friends, families, and music lovers seeking a vibrant St Patrick’s Day experience. Paid event: prices vary.

14. Dickie’s Bar Tayto Martini

Visit Dickie’s Bar in Mayfair from 14–17 March 2026 in the evening for quirky Irish-inspired cocktails, including the Tayto Martini — a creative twist on Ireland’s famous crisps. The venue offers a lively, playful atmosphere ideal for travellers seeking something different. Entry is free; drinks are paid.

15. Irish Film & Media Nights

From 14–17 March 2026, the London Irish Centre hosts Irish film screenings, storytelling sessions, and cultural showcases at various times. Visitors can explore Ireland’s rich literary and cinematic heritage while participating in interactive sessions. These events provide a deeper cultural understanding of Ireland, perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Free to attend; some workshops may require paid registration.

16. Club de Fromage: Irish-Themed Party Night

Celebrate at Club de Fromage in Islington on Sunday, 15 March 2026, from 20:00–02:00 with a lively Irish-themed party. The event includes interactive Riverdance competitions, themed décor, and fun activities alongside music and drinks. Perfect for party-goers seeking a high-energy, festive night out. Free entry: drinks and extras paid.

17. Explore Irish Pubs Off the Beaten Path

From 14–17 March 2026, explore lesser-known Irish pubs across London such as Hoxton Howl, The Hop Pole in Wandsworth, and Connolly’s in Chiswick. These pubs offer authentic pints, live Irish music, and a vibrant atmosphere for visitors who prefer local experiences away from the main tourist crowds. Entry is free; food and drinks paid.

18. Irish Walking Tours & Heritage Routes

Book guided Irish heritage walking tours on Sunday, 15 March 2026, from 10:00–14:00 around Central London and parade areas. Discover stories of Irish writers, rebels, and historical figures while exploring the city streets, ending near the main parade zones. Paid event; booking required.

19. Irish Cultural Exhibits at London Irish Centre

From 14–17 March 2026, the London Irish Centre hosts exhibitions, storytelling sessions, and community showcases celebrating Irish heritage, literature, and language. Visitors can engage with interactive displays and cultural activities, perfect for families and travellers wanting an immersive experience. Free entry: some workshops may require registration.

FAQs

When is St Patrick’s Day celebrated in London in 2026?
St Patrick’s Day is celebrated on 17 March every year, but the main public celebrations in London usually take place on the closest weekend. In 2026, the official St Patrick’s Day parade and festival will take place on Sunday, 15 March 2026, attracting thousands of visitors across central London.
What are the best things to do for St Patrick’s Day in London?
Popular St Patrick’s Day activities in London include attending the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Trafalgar Square, visiting traditional Irish pubs such as Waxy O’Connor’s, enjoying live Irish music sessions, joining pub crawls in Camden, and attending cultural events at the London Irish Centre.
Where is the St Patrick’s Day parade in London held?
The main St Patrick’s Day parade in London usually begins at Hyde Park Corner and travels through central London before finishing at Trafalgar Square, where a large festival with music, dance performances, food stalls and cultural activities takes place.
Are there free St Patrick’s Day events in London?
Yes, many St Patrick’s Day events in London are free to attend. The St Patrick’s Day Parade and Trafalgar Square Festival, live music sessions at Irish pubs, cultural exhibitions at the London Irish Centre, and several community celebrations across the city are free, although food and drinks may be paid.
Which Irish pubs are best to visit in London for St Patrick’s Day?
Some of the most popular Irish pubs in London for St Patrick’s Day celebrations include Waxy O’Connor’s in Soho, The Auld Shillelagh in Stoke Newington, and O’Neill’s in Soho, all known for live Irish music, festive atmospheres and traditional Irish drinks.
Are there family friendly St Patrick’s Day activities in London?
Yes, families can enjoy the St Patrick’s Day parade, cultural workshops, Irish music performances, storytelling sessions at the London Irish Centre, and daytime celebrations across the city that showcase Irish culture and heritage.
What food and drinks are popular during St Patrick’s Day in London?
Traditional St Patrick’s Day food and drinks in London often include Guinness, Irish whiskey, hearty stews, Irish soda bread, and festive desserts. Many restaurants and pubs also offer themed menus and limited-edition dishes during the celebrations.
Where can you experience Irish culture in London during St Patrick’s Day?
Visitors can experience Irish culture at locations such as the London Irish Centre, Irish pubs across Soho and Camden, the St Patrick’s Day Festival in Trafalgar Square, and special events featuring Irish music, dance, film screenings and cultural exhibits.
What should I wear for St Patrick’s Day celebrations in London?
Many people celebrate St Patrick’s Day by wearing green clothing, shamrock accessories, or Irish-themed outfits. Fancy dress, festive hats, and themed costumes are common at pub events and parties across London.
Are there nightlife events for St Patrick’s Day in London?
Yes, London hosts many nightlife events for St Patrick’s Day including club parties, themed pub crawls, live music gigs, and DJ nights across areas like Soho, Camden, and the West End.