St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world, and Copeland, a beautiful area nestled in the Lake District, is no exception. Whether you’re a local resident or planning a visit to this scenic part of Cumbria, Copeland has plenty of exciting events, Irish-inspired festivities, and welcoming pubs to celebrate this vibrant day in style. Here’s your detailed guide to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Copeland!
While Copeland is known for its natural beauty, it doesn’t shy away from the festive spirit that comes with St. Patrick’s Day. Local events and parades create an energetic and lively atmosphere, perfect for the whole family.
Date: March 17, 2025
Whitehaven, one of Copeland’s most picturesque towns, hosts one of the area’s largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade will kick off in the morning, filled with colourful floats, bagpipers, and marching bands. Local schoolchildren, community groups, and Irish dancers will all take part, making this a fantastic event for families.
After the parade, the town comes alive with Irish music, dancing, and street food vendors lining the streets of Whitehaven. Irish folk bands play at various pubs and open-air stages, and you'll even find stalls selling Irish crafts and food, such as hearty stews, potato dishes, and of course, traditional Irish soda bread.
If you love to watch traditional Irish dancing or want to give it a go yourself, Copeland offers workshops and performances that everyone can enjoy. The Whitehaven Irish Dancers often host workshops where you can learn the basics of Irish step dancing. For the more experienced dancers, there are evening performances where you can watch talented dancers show off their skills in intricate and energetic routines.
When it comes to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, Copeland’s pubs are the heart of the festivities. From live music sessions to special offers, these local pubs offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying a pint of Guinness or a shot of Irish whiskey. Here are some of the best pubs in Copeland to check out on March 17:
Why Visit? The Globe Inn in Whitehaven is one of the most popular spots for St. Patrick’s Day. Known for its lively atmosphere, it features a live band playing Irish folk music throughout the day. The pub is decked out in green decorations, and the bar staff are always ready with an authentic Irish drink to keep you in the celebratory mood. Be sure to try their Irish stew, a hearty dish to complement your drink.
Why Visit? If you're closer to Millom, head to The Duke of Cumberland. This cozy pub goes all out for St. Patrick’s Day, with themed drinks such as Guinness, Irish whiskey shots, and Irish coffee. You can also enjoy a special Irish-themed menu, which includes classic dishes like bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and of course, fish and chips. The pub hosts traditional Irish folk music and even organizes a mini-dance floor for anyone who wants to show off their best Irish jigs.
Why Visit? The Ship Inn in Haverigg is perfect for those who love a traditional Irish pub atmosphere. During St. Patrick’s Day, the pub offers a selection of Irish drinks and a live session of Irish music to get everyone in the spirit. Their fish and chips, served with a side of mushy peas and bread and butter, is a local favourite that pairs perfectly with a cold pint.
Why Visit? A little further out from Copeland but well worth the trip, The Rampside Tavern is renowned for its St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. This pub transforms into an Irish-themed haven, with plenty of live entertainment, from Irish folk bands to karaoke nights. The highlight is their Guinness-pouring competition, where locals compete to pour the perfect pint of the Irish stout.
For those who prefer to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a delicious meal, Copeland offers several restaurants and eateries with Irish-inspired menus. Whether you’re looking for a hearty stew or a lighter bite, you’ll find something to suit your tastes.
Located in the heart of Whitehaven, this charming cafe serves up delicious Irish breakfasts, perfect for starting your St. Patrick’s Day celebration. The menu includes classics like rashers, sausages, fried eggs, and potato farls. The cafe also serves traditional Irish soda bread and scones with jam and cream.
For a truly authentic Irish experience, head to The Black Cock Inn in Broughton-in-Furness, where they offer an Irish-inspired menu for St. Patrick’s Day. From Irish beef stew to corned beef sandwiches, the pub’s hearty menu will warm you up after a day of celebrating. For dessert, try their Bailey’s cheesecake, a sweet treat that’s perfect for finishing off the meal.
In addition to pubs and parades, there are plenty of other ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Copeland.
Many local markets in Copeland will be featuring Irish-inspired goods on St. Patrick’s Day. The Whitehaven Market will have artisan Irish crafts, such as hand-knitted scarves, cloverleaf jewelry, and pottery. The market will also feature stalls selling Irish food, including freshly baked soda bread and Irish smoked salmon.
Some local pubs will be hosting Irish-themed events, including quiz nights, karaoke, and Irish comedy shows. These events bring the community together for an evening of laughter and celebration.
No St. Patrick’s Day celebration would be complete without a final toast to the Irish patron saint. Whether you’re sipping on a pint of Guinness, enjoying an Irish whiskey, or indulging in a Bailey’s Irish Cream cocktail, take a moment to enjoy the rich, spirited atmosphere that defines St. Patrick’s Day in Copeland.
St. Patrick’s Day in Copeland offers a perfect mix of lively parades, local events, delicious food, and welcoming pubs, making it an unforgettable way to celebrate Irish culture. Whether you’re marching in the parade, dancing to Irish folk music, or enjoying a hearty Irish meal, there’s something for everyone in Copeland this March 17th.
If you’re planning to visit Copeland for St. Patrick’s Day, make sure to secure a great place to stay. Book your accommodation through Pass the Keys, and enjoy a fully managed vacation rental for a stress-free and comfortable experience in this beautiful part of the UK.