London is a fantastic city to watch football, offering numerous pubs and bars with great atmospheres and big screens. Whether you prefer a cosy pub or a trendy bar, you will find the perfect spot to cheer on your team.
Famous Football Pubs in London
London has many famous pubs that are perfect for watching football. Here are a few you should consider:
- The Lyric, Soho: This homey pub has a couple of decent-sized TVs. You can enjoy respectable craft beers while watching the match.
- The Hercules Pillars: Located in central London, this pub is unique due to its Greek-style sculptures. It provides a great atmosphere for football fans.
- Broadleaf: This modern pub features a sports lounge mostly dedicated to football. With floor-to-ceiling windows, you get plenty of natural light while enjoying the game.
These are just a few examples, but London has plenty more to offer. Each pub has its own unique charm and features that make watching football an enjoyable experience.
Football Stadium Tours With Screening Facilities
If you’re a football fan in London, taking a tour of a stadium with screening facilities can be a fantastic experience. Many of these iconic venues allow you to explore behind the scenes and catch a game on the big screen.
Chelsea FC – Stamford Bridge
- Tour Type: Stadium and Museum Tour
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Facilities: Screening rooms for match highlights and historical games
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- Tour Type: Behind-the-scenes tour
- Rating: 5/5
- Facilities: Modern screens in various hospitality areas
Wembley Stadium
- Tour Type: Guided tour
- Rating: 5/5
- Facilities: Large screens for watching classic matches
West Ham – London Stadium
- Tour Type: 90-minute stadium tour
- Facilities: Screens showing highlights in the dressing rooms and other areas
⚽ Read about my experience at the London Stadium tour here!
Whether you’re looking to enjoy behind-the-scenes access or catch up on match highlights, these stadium tours offer fantastic screening facilities. Remember to check availability in advance to make the most of your visit.
Sports Bars and Pubs With International Coverage
For those who want to catch matches from overseas, London has several top spots offering international football coverage.
- Kings Sports Bar in Leicester Square is a fan favourite. It has 17 screens of various sizes, so you can watch international matches comfortably. They serve American-style food until late, making it a convenient spot for late-night games.
- The Hercules Pillars, located centrally, is another great place. This pub combines a unique Greek-theme decor with live football from around the world. It’s a good option if you enjoy an interesting setting while watching games.
- Bar Kick excels at providing a lively environment for international football. Spanning two floors with 12 huge screens, it also features foosball tables you can use for free on Mondays after 4 p.m.
- For a homelier vibe, try The Lyric in Soho. With decent-sized TVs and a great selection of craft beers, you’ll be able to enjoy international matches in a cosy setting.
Outdoor Screenings and Fan Parks
For an energetic football-watching experience, London has plenty of outdoor screenings and fan parks to offer.
- Boxpark Wembley, Croydon, and Shoreditch are popular spots where you can soak up the atmosphere. These venues often host events with big screens, food stalls, and a lively crowd. Expect to see a lot of fans here, especially during major games.
- Another great place to catch the action is Peckham Levels. This multi-venue space features five large screens in the bar and food hall areas. With the sound and commentary broadcasted through the PA system, you won’t miss a single moment of the match. The address is 95A Rye Lane, SE15 4ST.
- For those looking for larger-scale fan parks, For the Fans (4TF) operates massive spaces equipped with giant screens. Thousands of fans gather here to cheer in a festive setting. These fan parks offer a more communal experience with lots of spirited support for your favourite teams.
- In Battersea, an energetic venue at 21-25 St John’s Hill also shows all England games on big screens. Expect a buzzing atmosphere complete with DJ music, sing-alongs, and plenty of food and drinks.
Hotel Bars With Football Live Streams
You can find hotel bars in London that offer live football streams, providing a great spot to watch a match.
- Novotel London Paddington is a top pick. With its modern setting and several screens, it’s ideal for catching Premier League games. Plus, you can enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks.
- Another great spot is the Hilton London Bankside. This hotel boasts a stylish bar area with large screens that broadcast live matches. It’s perfect for those who love a lively atmosphere.
- At the Holiday Inn London – Camden Lock, the bar sets up screens for major football events. Here, you can relax with a drink while watching the game in a cosy environment.
- Park Plaza Westminster Bridge offers a sophisticated bar with screens for live football. The ambiance is upscale, making it a great choice if you prefer a more refined setting.
- The Westbury Mayfair provides a luxurious bar experience. You can watch the match on big screens while enjoying premium cocktails and snacks.
Football Clubs’ Official Supporters’ Pubs
When it comes to watching football in London, many clubs have official supporters’ pubs. These pubs are often buzzing with fans, creating an electric matchday atmosphere.
Arsenal
For Arsenal supporters, the Tollington Arms on Hornsey Road is a popular choice. It’s close to the Emirates Stadium and has a great selection of drinks.
Chelsea
The Butcher’s Hook in Fulham is a favourite for Chelsea fans. Located near Stamford Bridge, it’s often filled with blue shirts on matchdays.
Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs supporters often head to The Bricklayers Arms in Tottenham. This pub has a vibrant atmosphere, especially when Tottenham plays at home.
West Ham United
West Ham fans frequent The Boleyn Tavern. Though it’s a bit of a nostalgia trip since the club moved to the London Stadium, it still draws loyal supporters.
Crystal Palace
In South London, The Two Brewers is the go-to spot for Crystal Palace fans. Located near Selhurst Park, it’s a lively spot for pre- and post-match drinks.
Leyton Orient
The Leyton Technical serves Leyton Orient fans. It’s just a short walk from the stadium and offers a cosy setting to watch matches.
Charlton Athletic
Charlton supporters often gather at The Antigallican. Situated near The Valley, it’s a hub for fans looking to catch a game with fellow Addicks.
Booking and Reservation Tips
When planning to watch football in a popular London pub, it’s wise to make reservations.
Check the Schedule
- Know the Match Days: Pubs can get crowded during major fixtures. Check the football schedule in advance.
- Contact the Venue: Call or check the pub’s website for reservation policies. Not all places take bookings.
Make Reservations in Advance
- Early Reservations: Book as early as possible, especially for big matches.
- Groups: If you’re in a large group, inform the pub to ensure they can accommodate you.
Online Booking
- Use Platforms: Many pubs use platforms like OpenTable or similar services.
- Check Confirmation: Ensure you receive a confirmation email or message.
Table Preferences
- Screen View: Specify if you want a table with a clear view of the screen.
- Accessibility: Mention any accessibility requirements.
Cancellation Policies
- Understand the Policy: Familiarise yourself with the pub’s cancellation policy.
- Timely Cancellations: If plans change, cancel in time to avoid penalties and allow others to book.
Special Events and Offers
- Promotions: Look for pubs offering special match-day promotions.
- Memberships: Some pubs have loyalty schemes offering benefits for regular visitors.
Guidelines for Enjoying Football in London
Finding the right place to watch football can make your experience unforgettable. Here are some tips to help you make the most of it.
- Arrive Early: Football nights can get crowded. Arriving at least an hour early will help you get a good spot and avoid queues.
- Check the Schedule: Different venues may show different matches. Verify which games are being screened at places like Market Halls Victoria through their websites or a call.
- Know the Rules: Respect the house rules. Some places may have minimum spending requirements, especially during big matches. Always check beforehand to avoid surprises.
- Enjoy the Menu: Many pubs offer a variety of food and drinks. You can check out the best foodie spots in London here.
- Be Respectful: Be mindful of other patrons. Cheering is great, but avoid aggressive behaviour. Respect everyone’s space and the venue’s property.
- Bring Friends: Football is best enjoyed with friends. It enhances the atmosphere and makes the experience even more enjoyable.
- Stay Safe: If you plan to drink, make sure you have a safe way to get home. Public transport is usually a good bet, but check timetables in advance.
By following these guidelines, you can make the most of your football-watching experience in London.
Enjoy The Game!
London offers a vibrant array of options for football enthusiasts to catch a game, whether you’re a local or just visiting. From iconic sports bars with massive screens and passionate crowds to more intimate pubs where you can enjoy a pint while watching your favourite team, the city has something for everyone!
🏈 Looking for more sport to watch? Check out Where To Watch American Football In London
