Burns Night – Brakes Scotland

The 25th of January is fast approaching, Burns Night is almost upon us.

Robert Burns died in 1796 at the tender age of 37, his close friends and family gathered to have supper to celebrate his life and Burns Night was born. 2022 would have been the Bards 263rd birthday!

Nowadays, there are celebrations worldwide on Burns Night but we think you would struggle to find a nation that celebrates better than the Scots. We Scots love a party, a dram (well, a few!) and celebrating the life of Scotland's most famous poet which makes for a fun end to the long, dark month of January.

Food is central to any celebration and Burns Night is no exception! Get ready to overindulge in the Scottish delicacy: haggis.

Haggis is traditionally made from lamb’s offal, suet and oatmeal but these days other dietary requirements are catered for including a vegetarian, vegan and gluten free option too!

If the classic haggis, neeps and tatties are not for you then add a modern twist - we love haggis bonbons as a starter accompanied by a whisky sauce.

Why not try an alternative to classic haggis 'n' tatties? Mix haggis with minced beef to create a mouthwatering beefburger with a side of peppercorn sauce to dip your chips or take inspiration from Scotland’s National Chef, Gary Maclean and add a Cullen Skink tart to your menu - great as a starter or main. Delicious!

And don’t forget the drinks pairing. If you do not like whisky try a Scottish cider or craft beer?

No matter if your Burns Night celebrations are big or small, we have some tips and recipes to make your evening go with a bang.

• Welcome the evening in with Bagpipes if you are lucky enough to have a piper or if not 'Alexa, play bagpipe music!'
• Once everyone has arrived it’s time for the gentlemen of the group to toast the lassies
• Now lassies, it’s time for your reply, elegant and witty, as you would expect from a Scot’s lassie
• Before the feast begins read the prayer of thanks;

The Selkirk Grace

Some hae meat and canna eat
And some wad eat that want it:
But we hae meat and we can eat,
And sae the Lord be thankit.

• Don’t let us stop you there, there are over 550 Burns poems to choose from.
• Finish off with a Dashing White Sergeant or a Gay Gordons

To truly enjoy Burns Night you don't need to wear tartan, listen to bagpipes or recite Auld Lang Syne - all that's needed is good food, good company and a wee dram - we hope your Burns Night is a belter.

Need inspiration?  Check out our Burns Night Supper Menu