Our top five ways to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day in London

For the atmosphere

St. Patrick’s Day parade, Sunday 19 March

This annual parade begins at Piccadilly at midday and marches along to Trafalgar Square, hosting a vast array of spectacles including marching bands, dance schools and Irish sports clubs.  And the fun doesn’t stop there – you can enjoy afternoon tea, community stalls, comedy and street food in Trafalgar Square throughout the afternoon.

For music lovers

Camden Market St Patrick’s Day Festival, Friday 17 & Saturday 18 March

On Saturday, Camden Market will go green in celebration, with live Irish music across the market and a range of activities including dancing and craft and live performances from top Irish bands MOXIE and Kíla.  And the day wouldn’t be complete without screenings of the England v Ireland Six Nations rugby match.

Irish-themed poetry and music will also be performed all of Friday at Westminster, Tottenham Court Road and Southwark Tube stations.

For film buffs

St Patrick’s Day Film Festival, Friday 17 – Sunday 19 March

The St Patrick’s Day Film Festival brings the best of Irish cinema to London with screenings at the Prince Charles Cinema, the Regent Street Cinema and the London Film School over the St Patrick’s Day weekend.  Most screenings need tickets, though plenty are free, so get in quick to avoid disappointment.

For the craic

The Toucan, Soho

London has an impressive array of Irish bars and pubs, all of which will undoubtedly be putting on a good party.  One of our favourites is The Toucan in Soho, a small Irish pub which is somewhat of a homage to Guinness. Whether you opt for a traditional pint, a Guinness cocktail or an Irish Whiskey, be sure to pair it with a packet of Taytos!

For the instagrammers

The Coca-Cola London Eye

And finally, if you’re still out and about celebrating as the day draws to a close, don’t forget to snap the Coca-Cola London Eye which will be lit up green in celebration!