Where to watch the Rugby World Cup in London
From secret gardens to cosy pub settings, this is our guide on where to watch the Rugby World Cup tournament in London this month.
Words: Chris Cotonou
Hopes are high for England at this year’s Rugby World Cup—the tenth edition since it was first founded, and two-hundred-years since the sport’s invention by William Webb Louis. So there’s plenty to celebrate; even if you are unable to visit France to see the games live, and London will be full of revellers cheering on the team as they hopefully progress into the final stages of the tournament. But just where does one go to get the proper Rugby World Cup experience?
Thankfully, London has a number of secret gems that cater to making the most out of the tournament, either surrounded by revellers or in private rooms with friends. This is our list of the best spots in the capital to enjoy the games; even if you don’t know what a ‘blitz’ or a ‘blindside’ is.
The Hawk’s Nest, Shepherd's Bush
Located under the arches near Goldhawk Road in Shepherd’s Bush, this local favourite is an ideal spot to enjoy the Rugby World Cup, with screenings that can be watched from their revamped (and heated, most importantly) garden space. Although you’ll be cheering on England, the menu includes Italian-style bites alongside their popular selection of sourdough pizza cooked in a wood-fire oven. Add to that great cocktails and local beer on tap, and you’ve got the perfect setting to enjoy the game.
https://the-hawks-nest.co.uk/
The Peckham Arches, Peckham
If you’re south of the river, there are few trendier spots to enjoy the Rugby World Cup than The Peckham Arches. Grab a spot in the large garden area and join fellow revellers watch the action unfold, with two bars serving incredible cocktails, wines and local beers all throughout the day. This is a larger, less-intimate atmosphere—where guests can really feel the full match-day experience. Although it is a large space, be sure to book your spot first as it can get busy!
https://peckhamarches.com/
The Cadogan Arms, Chelsea
If you’re planning on making a day out of the game, The Cadogan Arms is an up-scale option where you and your friends can gather to share a meal. The Classic Platter is a delicious assortment of flavours, including buttermilk fried chicken, a black pudding scotch egg, lamb ribs, and red curry pork scratchings. There’s a vegetarian option, too. But it’s worth reserving your place here, as it can get very busy on match day.
https://thecadoganarms.london/rugby-world-cup-2023/
Brigadiers, City of London
For something a little different, why not enjoy the rugby at this legendary Indian BBQ restaurant? Their Blighters bar will be screening the major games, and guests can also book private rooms in the restaurant to watch the tournament unfold as they enjoy the four-course feast menu that features the Brigadiers’ most renowned dishes. The restaurant has just unveiled its newly renovated Pool Room, with self-serve beverage technology (the first of its kind). Fitting up to 22 standing guests, or 6 seated, it would be the perfect space to make an occasion of the final.
https://brigadierslondon.com/rugby-world-cup/
The George, Fitzrovia
Expect the rugby to take over The George, a Grade II listed pub on Great Portland Street. As well as hosting Q&A evenings with players, they organise competitions and events. This can be hungry business, so we suggest ordering the legendary George Cheeseburger to go with their selection of pale ales and wines. The George is a proper pub in the many senses of the word—cosy, hospitable, and hard to leave at the end of the night; especially if you’re celebrating an England victory.
https://thegeorge.london/rugby-world-cup-2023/
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