Intro: Why Your 6 Nations Fix Needs a Pub Upgrade
Let’s face it: watching the Six Nations on a couch with a stale bag of chips is the culinary equivalent of a missed penalty. You’re a grown adult who knows the difference between a lager and a bitter, you’ve got a taste for drama, and you love the feeling of a good roar echoing off wooden beams. In short, you deserve a pub that feels like a meme‑infused journalism piece—sharp, witty, and drenched in hops. This guide is the only thing standing between you and a night of mediocre draughts. Buckle up, because we’re about to turn your rugby pilgrimage into a legend worthy of a Reddit thread.
SEO‑Friendly Primer: What Makes a Pub “Best” for the 6 Nations?
Before we dive into the nitty‑gritty, let’s set the SEO stage. When you Google “best pubs for 6 Nations” you’re probably looking for three things:
- Massive screen real estate (no one wants to squint at a 32‑inch TV while shouting at the referee).
- Rugged ambience that screams “I’ve seen more tackles than you have Tinder dates”.
- Beer that doesn’t taste like it was filtered through a gym sock.
We’ve scored each venue on those criteria, sprinkled in a dash of local lore, and tossed in a few cheeky pop‑culture references to keep you awake after the third pint.
England: From London’s Lofty Lanes to Manchester’s Mosh‑Pit
England is the heavyweight champion of pub culture—think centuries‑old brick, roaring crowds, and a beer selection that could make a sommelier weep. Below are the top three spots that will have you shouting “Boo‑hoo!” in the most glorious way possible.
- The Churchill Arms (London) – Nestled in Notting Hill, this Victorian gem boasts a wall of roses, a massive screen, and a Guinness that flows smoother than a Thames cruise. Bonus: the décor is so over‑the‑top you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Wes Anderson set.
- The Old Wellington (Manchester) – If you like your rugby with a side of industrial chic, this former warehouse turned pub serves up craft ales that could rival any custom beer you’ve ever tried. The big screen is framed by exposed brick, giving you that gritty vibe every bro‑hood craves.
- The Crown & Anchor (Bristol) – A hidden gem on the waterfront, this spot has a pirate‑themed bar (yes, a Jolly Roger flag) and a selection of ales that will make you question why you ever settled for mass‑market lagers.
Pro tip: Grab a table near the bar before the match starts, order a round of make‑your‑own beer flights, and watch the drama unfold while the bartender narrates each try like a sports commentator on a caffeine binge.
Wales: Dragon‑Fire Breathers & Hoppy Hooligans
Wales isn’t just about rugged coastlines and lyrical poetry; it’s also home to pubs that could double as a dragon’s lair (minus the fire‑breathing, unless you count the spicy IPA).
- The Red Lion (Cardiff) – This historic inn has a massive screen that rivals a cinema, a menu packed with Welsh rarebit, and a beer selection that includes a locally brewed stout that tastes like a hug from a leprechaun.
- Gower’s Arms (Swansea) – Perfect for those who want to feel the sea breeze while watching a scrum. The patio overlooks the harbor, and the bartender will pour you a pint of their signature sea‑salted pale ale. It’s basically the ocean in a glass.
- The Dragon’s Den (Llandudno) – As the name suggests, this place is all about fire. Their house IPA is infused with chilies, so expect your tongue to do a haka after each sip.
Don’t forget to order the “Welsh Warrior Platter” – a meat‑laden feast that pairs perfectly with the local brews. And if you’re feeling entrepreneurial, swing by Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer to learn how to turn your love of pubs into a profit machine.
Scotland: Haggis, Highland Hops, and Hearty Cheers
Scotland knows how to throw a party. From the smoky peat of their whiskies to the crisp bite of their ales, the Scots will make sure your 6 Nations experience is as rugged as the Highlands.
- The Royal Mile Pub (Edinburgh) – Located on the historic Royal Mile, this tavern offers a massive projection screen, a fireplace that could melt a glacier, and a selection of craft beers that would make a Highlander weep with joy.
- The Shipyard (Glasgow) – A former dockyard turned pub, complete with exposed steel beams and a beer list that reads like a maritime adventure. Their “Loch Ness Lager” is as mysterious as the monster itself.
- The Highlander’s Rest (Aberdeen) – If you want a venue that feels like a set from Game of Thrones, this is it. The walls are lined with swords, the screens are huge, and the bartender will serve you a dram of whisky between every try.
While you’re sipping, consider checking out Contact us for a personalized pub‑tour itinerary that includes secret speakeasies and exclusive tasting sessions.
Ireland: Guinness, Guffaws, and Good‑Old‑Girl Vibes
If you thought the Irish only drink Guinness, think again. Ireland’s pub scene is a kaleidoscope of flavors, from crisp pilsners to robust stouts, all served with a side of lyrical banter.
- The Temple Bar (Dublin) – Tourist‑magnet? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. The massive screen, live folk music, and a pint of Guinness poured with a perfect, frothy head make this a must‑visit.
- The Brazen Head (Dublin) – Claiming to be the oldest pub in Ireland, this place oozes history. Their “Celtic Crush IPA” is a modern twist that will make your taste buds do an Irish jig.
- The Red Stag (Cork) – A lesser‑known gem with a cozy backroom, a screen that’s just the right size, and a rotating tap list featuring local craft brews. Perfect for those who want to avoid the tourist hordes.
Pro tip: Order a “Shamrock Sampler” – a flight of three Irish ales that will have you chanting “Erin go Bragh!” louder than the commentators.
France: From Parisian Chic to Breton Brews
France isn’t just about wine; the French love a good bière too, especially when it’s paired with a baguette and a side of sarcasm. Here’s where to catch the Six Nations action en français.
- Le Pub du Stade (Paris) – Nestled near the Stade de France, this venue boasts a massive LED screen, a menu that includes French‑style charcuterie, and a selection of Belgian and French craft beers. Their “Parisian Pilsner” is as smooth as a runway model.
- Le Bar à Bière (Lyon) – Known for its rotating tap list, this spot serves up a “Lyon Lager” that’s brewed locally and pairs perfectly with their famed croque‑monsieur.
- Le Triskell (Brittany) – A coastal pub with a nautical theme, offering a “Brittany Bitter” that has a salty finish reminiscent of the Atlantic.
If you’re looking to import French brews to your own bar, check out Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer – the premier beer distribution marketplace that makes cross‑border shipping as easy as ordering a baguette.
Italy: Aperitivo Meets Rugby Rumble
Italy may be famous for pizza, but its pub culture is a rising star. Think sleek design, artisanal brews, and a vibe that says, “We take our rugby as seriously as our espresso.”
- Il Birrificio (Milan) – A modern craft brewery with a massive screen, a menu of Italian‑style tapas, and a house brew called “Milanese Malt” that’s as bold as a Serie A striker.
- La Taverna del Calcio (Rome) – While primarily a soccer bar, they switch to rugby for the Six Nations. Their “Roman Red Ale” has a hint of citrus that pairs perfectly with their carbonara.
- Pub Torino (Turin) – A cozy spot with a retro vibe, offering a “Piedmont Pilsner” that’s crisp, clean, and perfect for washing down a plate of truffle gnocchi.
Feeling inspired? Maybe you want to brew your own Italian‑style ale. Head over to Make Your Own Beer and start experimenting with espresso‑infused malt.
How to Choose the Perfect Pub for Your 6 Nations Marathon
Now that you have a list of elite establishments across the Six Nations nations, let’s talk strategy. Choosing the right venue is like picking a line‑out: you need precision, foresight, and a bit of swagger.
- Location, Location, Location – Proximity to public transport matters. No one wants to stumble home after a third round of stout because the nearest bus is a mile away.
- Screen Quality – A 1080p TV is acceptable, but 4K or a projector will make the difference between “I can see the try” and “What the heck is happening?”
- Beer Variety – A pub that only serves one type of lager is a crime against humanity. Look for places that rotate taps, offer local brews, and have a knowledgeable bartender.
- Atmosphere – Do you want a rowdy crowd that chants like a stadium, or a chill vibe where you can actually hear the commentator? Pick accordingly.
- Food Pairings – Nothing ruins a pint like a dry burger. Choose pubs that serve hearty, flavorful dishes that complement the beer.
By ticking these boxes, you’ll ensure your 6 Nations viewing experience is smoother than a perfectly pulled espresso shot.
Bonus: Turning Your Pub‑Hopping Adventures Into a Side‑Hustle
Okay, let’s get meta. You’ve just spent a weekend hopping from London to Dublin, sampling the finest ales, and shouting at referees. Why not monetize that expertise?
- Start a blog that reviews each venue with a snarky, meme‑laden voice. Google loves fresh, witty content, and your readers will love the authenticity.
- Partner with dropt.beer/ to promote custom‑brew kits. Use your newfound credibility to drive sales.
- Leverage Dropt.beer to sell exclusive merch or limited‑edition brews directly to your audience.
Remember, the world of beer is as lucrative as it is intoxicating. If you can write a snappy line about a pint, you can sell a pint.
Final Whistle: Your Next Move
There you have it – the definitive, meme‑infused, no‑holds‑barred guide to the best pubs for the 6 Nations. Whether you’re a seasoned rugby aficionado or a casual fan who just enjoys a good buzz, these venues will elevate your viewing experience from “meh” to “legendary”.
Now stop reading, grab your wallet, and start booking tables. And if you need help planning the ultimate pub‑tour, contact us. We’ll craft a bespoke itinerary that pairs each match with a perfect pint, because life’s too short for sub‑par beer and boring commentary.
Ready to turn your rugby nights into a saga of hops, hilarity, and high‑scoring tries? Click the button below, and let’s get this party started.
