We might not be in Scotland but why not raise a wee dram in hour of the legendary poet Robert Burns? Whether you fancy a Burns Supper featuring the classic combination of haggis, neeps and tatties or want a spot of whisky, there are plenty of ways to commemorate the bard in the city on Burns Night (January 25). Check out our guide to some of the best Burns Night celebrations happening in and around Manchester.
1. The Black Friar
Award winning and independent pub, The Black Friar, are playing host to a true Scottish whisky experience with Highland Park, alongside a creative new five course tasting menu on January 25. The ticket includes a five-course traditional Scottish menu with each dish paired perfectly with one of Highland Park’s signature whiskies, with tastings led by a Senior Whisky Specialist.
Courses will include a Cured Scallop Ceviche with Highland Park 12yr, Haggis Neeps and Tatties paired with Highland Park 18yr and traditional Scottish dessert Cranachan With Highland Park 21yr. Plus, Secret Manchester readers can get a 15% discount off their experience by using code LOCAL15 when booking.
The Black Friar, 41-43 Blackfriars Road, Salford, M3 7DB.
Tickets cost £65 per person and are available here.
2. The Pearl
Prestwich restaurant, The Pearl, will be serving a Burns Night Supper on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th January. The three course set menu will feature traditional Scottish dishes Cullen Skink, Haggis, Neeps & Tatties and Cranachan to finish. There’s also their full a la carte menu should you so wish to eat something different.
Boasting wood panelled walls, low lighting and candles on each table, The Pearl is a lovely setting for a night to celebrate Robert Burns.
The Pearl, 425 Bury New Rd, Prestwich, M25 1AF.
Tickets cost £55 per person and are available to book here.
3. East Lancashire Railway
Fancy celebrating the life of Rabbie Burns on board a steam train? Well this dining experience that begins in Bury, Greater Manchester by East Lancashire Railway (ELR) allows you to do exactly that.
Complete with a four course Scottish-themed menu, tea or coffee and dinner chocolate, glass of fizz on arrival and a Scottish pipe band to welcome you on board and give you a merry send off, it’s quite the occasion. Diners can enjoy a traditional steam train ride through the Irwell Valley all whilst enjoying a meal and commemorating the great poet.
East Lancashire Railway, Bolton Street Station, Bury, BL9 0EY.
Tickets cost £85 per person, including train fare, and are available to book here.
4. The Didsbury
Didsbury pub, The Didsbury, will be hosting a Burns Night Supper menu from January 23-25 from 4pm, featuring a carefully-curated four course menu steeped in the history and tradition accustomed to celebrating the life and poetry of Robert Burns. Diners can expect an affordable menu that includes traditional Scottish dishes, including Cullen Skink, Haggis Neeps & Tatties and of course the classic Cranachan Sundae.
The Didsbury will also have a selection of their favourite Scottish whiskies for you to add to finish. Plus, this year’s event sees the return of their delicious Glenfiddich Buck with elderflower cordial, soda and plenty of ice, alongside the sharp tang of a Whisky & Ginger, as well as a new-for-2025 non-alcoholic Elderflower Buck.
The Didsbury, 852 Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, M20 2SG.
Tickets cost £28 per person and are available to book here.