As the new year rolls in, it’s a time for reflection. January is often the month for setting goals and making lifestyle changes.
But isn’t that a bit predictable? Instead, how about practicing gratitude for the opportunities ahead? If you’re ready to break the status quo and embrace a new celebration, let us help you prepare for the magic of Burns Night.
January can feel dark and dreary, and the “Dry” challenge can feel like rubbing salt in the wound after December’s festivities.
Let us guide you toward some winter warmers, and if you choose to break the rules, let’s do it properly—all in the name of Robert (Rabbie) Burns, of course!
Find the perfect paring for a Burns Night supper:
Starter Mains Dessert
Listen to an expert guide you on each tipple for the occasion HERE.
Continue the celebrations and explore the Top 5 Whisky Dens of London.
Black Rock – Shoreditch
9 Christopher Street- EC2A 2BS
Open: Monday- Saturday from 5pm
Don’t let their discreet basement location fool you. This award winning bar houses over 350 whiskies. Adorned with glass cabinets you can even purchase you own to save for a later date and impress your guests. Take a seat at their 185 year old oak and glass topped centre piece, which dispenses house serves. Or make an occasion out of it by booking one of their blending or tasting events. This spot provides endless rule breaking opportunities.
The Vault- Soho
3 Greek Street – W1D 4NX
Open: Daily from 5pm
By simply stepping through the bookcase at Milroy’s, the esteemed whisky specialist, you are transported into The Vault—an intimate bar that has been a hidden gem for over a decade. This carefully curated space prides itself on providing an unpretentious setting where whisky aficionados can enjoy their drinks at leisure. The intimate atmosphere, however, makes it advisable to book in advance. Allow one of our expert team members to arrange a reservation, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience tailored to your preferences.
Hide Below- Piccadilly
85 Piccadilly- W1J 7NB
Open: Daily from 12pm Thursday – Sunday or from 4pm.
As their names suggest, this hidden den is accessed via the iconic, elegant staircase of Hide restaurant. Nestled beneath the bustling city, it serves as the home of Hendonism Wines, renowned for their exceptional selection of fine and rare spirits. This extraordinary collection can also be expertly incorporated into bespoke cocktail creations, tailored to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual sipper, the possibilities are endless. It’s the ideal sanctuary to ‘hide out’ from the vibrant energy of London’s West End, offering a tranquil retreat where you can unwind and indulge in an atmosphere of understated luxury.
The Berkeley Bar & Terrace- Belgravia
Wilton Place- SW1X 7RL
Open: Daily from 11am
This iconic hotel in Knightsbridge boasts two extraordinary bars to explore. The Blue Bar exudes luxury and offers a remarkable selection of spirits, with a strong emphasis on the art of mixology. Meanwhile, at The Berkeley Bar, you can indulge in a unique whisky experience. Their whisky flights include For The Love of Peat, which highlights the smoky wonders of Islay, First Class to Japan, showcasing premium Japanese whiskies, and the exclusive Berkeley Signature Collection, perfect for a true indulgence.
The Garden Room– Knightsbridge
The Lanesborough- Hyde Park Corner- SW1X 7TA
Open: Daily from 5pm Monday- Friday and Weekends from 4pm
Tucked away beneath the renowned Lanesborough hotel, this hidden oasis offers a serene escape surrounded by lush greenery. The outdoor covered terrace, available for guests to enjoy throughout the year, is a warm and inviting retreat, equipped with a charming fireplace, heaters, and cozy blankets to ensure comfort on those chillier evenings. One of the highlights of this haven is the impressive walk-in humidor, where an exquisite selection of Cuban and pre-Castro cigars are thoughtfully displayed. For many, the perfect pairing to a fine whisky is a carefully chosen cigar, and here, guests can explore a diverse range of options from the curated collection. For a more personalized experience, guests have the opportunity to book the exclusive Cigar Room, where they can immerse themselves in a truly refined atmosphere dedicated to the enjoyment of cigars.
