History of Burns Night
A Scottish Celebration
The first Burns supper was held in July 1801, when nine of Robert Burns’ close friends gathered to mark the fifth anniversary of his death. Taking place at Burns’ Cottage in Alloway, the night included a meal of haggis, drams of Scotch whisky, performances of the poet’s work, and a speech in his honour.
The night was such a resounding success that they decided to hold it again, this time in honour of Burns’ birthday on 25th January, beginning the tradition we still enjoy to this day. Celebrated throughout the country, there is no place more atmospheric than the Fife Arms to mark this uniquely Scottish event.
‘Fair fa’ your honest, sonsie face,
Great Chieftain o’ the Puddin-race!
Aboon them a’ ye tak your place,
Painch, tripe, or thairm:
Weel are ye wordy of a grace
As lang ‘s my arm.
The groaning trencher there ye fill,
Your hurdies like a distant hill,
Your pin wad help to mend a mill
In time o’ need,
While thro’ your pores the dews distil
Like amber bead.
His knife see Rustic-labour dight,
An’ cut ye up wi’ ready slight,
Trenching your gushing entrails bright,
Like onie ditch;
And then, O what a glorious sight,
Warm-reekin, rich!’
Ye Pow’rs wha mak mankind your care, And dish them out their bill o’ fare, Auld Scotland wants nae skinking ware That jaups in luggies; But, if ye wish her gratefu’ prayer, Gie her a Haggis!
A stay at the Fife Arms for Burns Night includes music on the bagpipes, poetry readings, traditional Scottish fare of haggis, neeps, and tatties, and a lively ceilidh to end the evening.
More Stories
The Fife Arms Garden
Created by award-winning garden designer, Jinny Blom.
Read More
The Origins of The Flying Stag
The story behind The Flying Stag.
Read More
The Braemar Gathering
History of the famous Braemar Gathering
Read More
The Scotch Whisky Collection
Introducing the Fife Arms collection of whiskies.
Read More
Excursions & Tours
Country Pursuits
Art & Culture
Wellness
Family Suites
Family Activities
Dogs at the Fife Arms
The Uisge Retreat
Early Bird Benefits
Braemar Literary Festival Weekend