The English tradition of St. George’s Day is carried through the whole of the UK, remembering the dragon-slaying patron saint of England and celebrating his story. So, what’s going on in London this year to rejoice the special occasion? As usual, the city is going to be all things red and white and bursting with activities to suit everyone. We know it is a bit early yet to be so excited about this day, but let us share what’s in store so far for the 23rd of this month.
To start off, it looks like Trafalgar Square will be the place to be on the 23rd April this year as the Mayor of London has organised a day of activities, food and fun for children at the Feast of St. George 2015! In the 13th Century, a large feast originated to celebrate the saint and it looks like Boris Johnson has taken some inspiration from this. During the event, you are welcome to take a wander around vibrant market stalls and munch on some traditional English treats or dine with the iconic Trafalgar Square fountains surrounding you in a special banqueting area. Watch some of London’s best chefs share some of England’s most delicious creations from the past and present in a live demonstration and stick around for exclusive performances from brilliant entertainers, artists and musicians. Lastly, why not get involved in some arts and crafts and food workshops or enjoy some indoor and outdoor activities with your family? What’s more, entry is absolutely free! This is guaranteed to be a fun-filled day out and a great chance to get the little ones learning about English history, so if this is for you, make sure it is in the diary!
Additionally, there will be lots of musical merriment happening to celebrate the occasion, including the popular St. George’s Day concert which will be arriving at St George’s Church, Hanover Square for some harmonious entertainment by the fantastic Central Band of The Royal British Legion, led by their Director of Music, David Cole. The English-themed performance will include an array of popular songs in the band’s unique style as well as special readings of poems and prose from celebrity guests. Entrance is at 6pm and you will be warmly welcomed with classic wine, soft drinks and snacks to get you fuelled for the singalong. On the Sunday 26th April, another concert will be held at the fabulous Royal Albert Hall. Brian Blessed presents A Gala For St. George, filled with all-time favourite English tunes, such as ‘We’ll meet again’, ‘White Cliffs of Dover’ and many more, alongside poems and readings.
If you consider yourself as more of a patriotic gastronome, remember that London’s restaurants are going to be in on the fun too with plenty of magnificent English menus to choose from. Also, there is no doubt that we English love a good ol’ pub to relax and have a laugh in with our pals. We firstly recommend The English Restaurant in Spitalfields, London and you can probably guess from the name that the design and the cuisine, from breakfast, to afternoon tea and to dinner, are very English! Expect some traditional recipes such as the classic fish and chips, full English breakfasts and also some international twists on some of the dishes served. Other restaurants specialising in British delicacies include Berner’s Tavern, Hawsmoor Spitalfields and Hampshire Hog, all of which are sure to give you a real English culinary experience. London is absolutely filled with traditional English pubs and we would be here until Christmas recommending the best ones. For a true English atmosphere to celebrate St. George’s Day, head over to The Old Bank of England pub in Fleet Street where the interior will inspire you and you can indulge in the best pies in town! Others that are reviewed well include Grenadier, Ye Olde Mitre and the Victorian designed Museum Tavern, all serving British ales, wines and some of the country’s favourite pub grub for you to enjoy.
www.facebook.com/thegeorgianhousehotel
Twitter: @GeorgianHouse
Instagram: georgianhouselondon
Pinterest: GHHLondon