Every January 25, Scotland and its admirers worldwide come together to celebrate Burns Night, an evening dedicated to the life and works of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns.
Known for immortalising Scotland’s culture, history, and identity through his poetry and songs, Burns continues to inspire generations with iconic works like Auld Lang Syne and Address to a Haggis.
This year, Burns Night is extra special for Dales Traditional Butchers, who have just secured the prestigious Argyll Golden Haggis Award for the second consecutive year, making them the first butcher outside Scotland to achieve this remarkable feat.
Whether you’re a Burns Night enthusiast or new to the tradition, join us as we explore this beloved celebration and why Dales Traditional Butchers is the ultimate choice for your Burns Night supper.
The legacy of Robert Burns
Born on January 25, 1759, in Alloway, Scotland, Robert Burns was a farmer’s son with an extraordinary gift for capturing the human spirit through his poetry. His works reflect themes of love, nature, and freedom, while championing the values of equality and community.
Burns Night originated in 1801, five years after his death, when his friends gathered to commemorate his legacy. Today, this annual celebration is steeped in tradition, with a focus on food, poetry, and music.
The Burns Night supper: A celebration of Scottish culture
The centrepiece of Burns Night is the Burns Supper, a feast of traditional Scottish fare that revolves around haggis, the “great chieftain o’ the puddin’ race.” Accompanied by neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes), haggis is a savoury pudding made from oats, spices, and sheep’s offal, and is revered for its hearty flavour and rich history.
The evening kicks off with the Selkirk Grace, a short Scottish prayer attributed to Burns, followed by the ceremonial Address to a Haggis. Delivered with dramatic flair, this poem humorously exalts the haggis as the noble centrepiece of the meal. Guests toast the haggis with whisky, ensuring the meal is as lively as it is delicious.
The night continues with toasts, the singing of Burns’s songs, and often ends with spirited ceilidh dancing, bringing communities together in celebration.
Dales Traditional Butchers: Argyll Golden Haggis Champions
Burns Night 2025 is especially meaningful for Dales Traditional Butchers of Kirkby Lonsdale, as they have been crowned Argyll Golden Haggis Champions for the second year running. This prestigious Scottish award recognises the finest haggis in the UK, solidifying Dales Butchers’ reputation as masters of their craft.
Winning this title required not only exceptional skill but also incredible determination. Sean Gibson, representing Dales Butchers, embarked on a grueling five-hour journey through Storm Bertie, braving fierce winds, heavy rain, and snow to deliver their haggis to the competition judges on time. Sean’s efforts paid off, with the judges praising Dales Butchers’ haggis for its exceptional flavour, texture, and authenticity.
As the first butchers outside Scotland to win this award two years in a row, Dales Traditional Butchers has brought Cumbria into the spotlight as a haggis-making powerhouse. Their passion, resilience, and dedication to quality continue to inspire both customers and competitors alike.
Bring award-winning haggis to your Burns Night table
Planning your Burns Night supper? There’s no better way to honour the occasion than with Dales Traditional Butchers’ award-winning haggis. Their expertly crafted haggis is made using the finest ingredients, reflecting the tradition and care that have earned them the Golden Haggis title.
Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or an intimate dinner, Dales Butchers offers a range of haggis sizes to suit every celebration. Pair it with traditional neeps and tatties, and you’ve got the perfect meal to accompany a night of poetry, music, and camaraderie.
Celebrate the spirit of Burns Night
Burns Night is more than just a dinner—it’s a celebration of community, culture, and connection. As guests gather to recite poetry, sing songs, and share a meal, they honour Robert Burns’s legacy and the values he championed: friendship, equality, and the joy of life.
At Dales Traditional Butchers, these values are deeply embedded in everything we do. From our dedication to perfecting traditional recipes to our commitment to serving our community, we strive to bring people together through exceptional food.
Join us in celebrating Burns Night
This Burns Night, make your celebration unforgettable with haggis that’s fit for a champion. Visit Dales Traditional Butchers in Kirkby Lonsdale or give us a call to secure your order of our award-winning haggis. Whether you’re Scottish or simply an admirer of Robert Burns, we’re here to help you honour the tradition with the very best.
Raise a glass to Robert Burns, enjoy a slice of our Golden Haggis, and celebrate the warmth of community this January 25. For more information or to place your order, visit Dales Traditional Butchers or call 015242 71278.