London, like many other western cities, has been built on a foundation of immigration and travellers, coming to the shores to mark their influences upon the culture. That’s one of the beautiful things about Great Britain, there is no such thing as being British. Most citizens are an amalgamation of many different countries, whether that be from recent emigration or historical. For instance, even the royal family aren’t British, their name of Windsor was changed from their original German surname of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha during the events of the First World War.
It’s no surprise then, to find that the Irish have had such a profound impact on the UK and London. Below you can find some of the ways that they have influenced British culture alongside the sights in the city which will bring you back to Irish roots.
London Irish
For those staying in 5-star hotels in London from Irish descent, you may be interested to learn a little about the influence of the Irish in the city. As far back as the 12th century, Irish workers have emigrated to the city, especially to North London areas such as Kilburn and Cricklewood. Camden ahs also been known for it’s mass influx of Roman Catholic Irish, and even during the Second World War you can see the influences of the Irish as nurses were recruited in London from Southern Ireland, especially at the Whittington Hospital for during and after the war effort.
London Irish Centre
The London Irish Centre boasts a long spanning history of being the heart of the Irish community in the city. This has led to the wealth of services available in this Camden Square based centre. Whether you want to learn some Irish dancing, take lessons in the Irish language or take part in the charity events which raise money for support of the elderly in the community. This centre is a great way to learn about the influence of the Irish on the city whilst also learn a little about the culture itself.
St Patricks Day in London
St Patrick’s Day in London is a day to remember, or forget, depending on how you celebrate! Many pubs and bars around the city will embrace the celebration of the Irish St through festivities, pub games and decorations. Even event spaces such as the Montcalm at the Brewery will decorate place in shamrock green in honour of the celebration. On March 17th, you can find a parade running down Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square, complete with food stalls, Irish dancers and musicians alongside a parade of leprechaun floats and music in honour of the pagan tradition.
Irish Pubs
From Auld Shillelagh to the Boston Arms, you’ll be able to indulge in great authentic Irish stouts and Whiskeys in London. Pubs to watch out for, which stock Irish alcohols as well as being Irish owned include Porterhouse, a Covent Garden based bastion of the same named Dublin brewer. Others include the Tipperary, the first pub this side of Dublin to serve Guinness, as well as Irish sports bar the Claddagh Ring.
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