The best St. Patrick’s Day events in the UK 2025

Of all the days to suddenly develop a strong emotional connection to Ireland, March 17th is the best. If you’re looking to celebrate in style (and avoid the inevitable public transport nightmares), we’ve got you covered. Here’s where to go, what to do, and—most importantly—how to get there without losing your sanity.

London – The big one

London loves an excuse to throw a massive event, and St. Patrick’s Day is no exception. The city hosts an extravagant parade with floats, dancers, and marching bands, all culminating in Trafalgar Square—because nothing says "Ireland" quite like posing next to a statue of Lord Nelson. There’ll be live music, cultural performances, and enough shamrock-themed merchandise to make your eyes water.

Getting there: Our coach services run to London from just about everywhere, so you can arrive stress-free and ready to pretend you know the words to "Whiskey in the Jar.

Birmingham – The one that turns Digbeth into a party district

Since Birmingham’s iconic St. Patrick’s Day parade is taking a break this year, that just means more energy can go into Digbeth’s legendary celebrations instead. This part of the city doesn’t need a parade to throw an unforgettable party—its Irish bars and venues more than make up for it…, Here’s where to head:

• Norton’s Digbeth – If you’re after proper Irish music, Norton’s is the place to be. With a packed schedule of live bands, DJs, and enough pints of the black stuff to keep everyone singing, this bar is at the centre of the city’s celebrations. Expect a rowdy but friendly crowd, and be prepared to shout over fiddles and bodhráns.
• The Old Crown – Birmingham’s oldest pub (est. 1368, so it’s seen a few St. Paddy’s Days) never disappoints. Every year, it hosts a week-long festival of live music, Irish whiskey tastings, and outdoor parties. 
• The Ruin – A quirky bar with a great atmosphere, The Ruin usually gets into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit with themed drinks and a lively crowd. A good option if you want the fun without elbowing your way through a sea of green hats.
• Hennessey’s Bar – A classic Irish sports bar, perfect if you want to celebrate the big day with a pint and some rugby or Gaelic football on the big screens.

Getting there: Our coaches will drop you off right in the heart of Digbeth, just a short walk (or enthusiastic jig) from these St. Patrick’s Day events.

Manchester – The one that lasts 10 days

A single day of celebration? Not in Manchester. They’ve stretched St. Patrick’s Day into a ten-day Irish Festival, because why stop at one when you can have an entire saga? From parades to live music and sports screenings, the city doesn’t do things by halves. Swing by the infamous Hennigan’s Sports Bar for a Guinness that’s so good it might actually be magic.

Getting there: We will whisk you straight to Manchester’s festivities, leaving you to focus on the important things—like trying to pace yourself.

Leeds – The one with the family vibe

Leeds goes all out with its St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival in Millennium Square, complete with live music, traditional Irish dancing, and food stalls serving up the best of Ireland,  spice bag or chicken fillet roll anyone? It’s a bit more family-friendly, meaning you might actually remember it the next day.

Getting there: We've got you covered—no need to wrestle with Yorkshire traffic or question your life choices on a packed train.

Leicester – The one that starts early

Leicester isn’t messing around. Their St. Patrick’s Day Parade actually takes place on March 16 —presumably because they want a head start on the celebrations. The parade sets off from New Walk and features floats, Irish dancers, and the general sense that everyone is in on something you’re not.

Getting there: A National Express coach will get you there with time to spare, so you can fully commit to the "I’m 100% Irish for the next 48 hours" experience.

Cheltenham – The one that’s all about the atmosphere

If you like your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with a side of electric energy, Cheltenham is the place to be. The Cheltenham Festival, running from March 11-14, conveniently coincides with the big day, meaning the town will be absolutely buzzing with live music, plenty of Guinness, and an atmosphere that’s about as Irish as you can get outside of Dublin.

Expect packed pubs, impromptu singalongs, and a sea of green as visitors and locals alike embrace the festivities.

Getting there: Our coaches run to Cheltenham, so you can soak up the atmosphere without worrying about getting home.

The bottom line?

We can get you to these St. Patrick’s Day hotspots without the usual public transport drama. So, whether you’re in it for the parade, the music, or the electric atmosphere, you can focus on celebrating while someone else handles the logistics. Now, go forth and be as Irish as your ancestry (or sheer enthusiasm) allows.

Plan your journey here.

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