Intro: The Eternal Dilemma of Footy Watchers
If you’ve ever been to a pub on a big match day, you’ve probably seen the chaos: half the room cheering for the wrong team, a guy in a jersey trying to argue the offside rule, and someone definitely yelling about “that refereeeeeee.” Finding the best pubs to watch footy isn’t just about scoring a seat—it’s about curating an experience. And if you’re like us, you want a place where the beer flows, the screens are big enough to see from the back, and the staff don’t judge you for cheering at a screen that’s 20 feet away from where you are.
So, let’s cut to the chase: we’ve rounded up the pubs where you can watch the game, laugh at the chaos, and maybe even win a free pint if your team scores. Let’s raise a glass to the pubs that get it right.
1. The Kickabout (📍123 Beer Lane)
If you’ve ever wondered what a pub looks like when it’s fully committed to footy, The Kickabout is your spot. This place is a shrine to sports viewing—five massive screens, a dartboard permanently occupied by disgruntled fans, and a barista who’s seen it all. The staff here know the rules of every league from the Premier League to the AFL, and they’ll argue with you about who invented soccer until the bar closes.
Why it’s great: The Kickabout’s “footy happy hour” (3-6 PM) gives you 2-for-1 pints and a guaranteed seat near the screen. Plus, if your team scores, the bartender might just toss you a free round. But fair warning: the guy in the corner who yells “GOAL!” every time someone kicks the ball is not a fan of your team.
2. The Last Kick (📍456 Ale Street)
Think of The Last Kick as the pub version of a sports bar that’s trying way too hard. They’ve got a rotating lineup of local beers, a trivia night that’s 90% footy questions, and a staff member who’s always wearing a jersey from a team they don’t actually like. The vibe is equal parts “let’s celebrate” and “let’s survive this.”
Why it’s great: The Last Kick’s “Championship Booth” is legendary. It’s a 20-person booth with a screen dedicated to one game. The catch? You have to win it by correctly predicting the first goal. The loser buys a round for the booth. (Yes, this is a thing. Yes, it’s glorious.)
3. The Draft House (📍789 Hop Avenue)
If you’re the type who wants to watch the game while pretending you’re in a Michelin-starred restaurant, The Draft House is your spot. They serve gourmet nachos, have a “quiet corner” for people who are still trying to finish their first pint, and play games in HD so you don’t have to squint. The staff here are more like sommeliers for beer than barbacks.
Why it’s great: The Draft House’s “Match Viewing Package” includes a flight of craft beers, a charcuterie board, and a free round of trivia. If you win the trivia, you get a custom pint glass with your team’s logo on it. (If you lose? You get a glass that says “Supporter of the Underdog.” Still cool, but slightly ironic.)
The Golden Rule: Always Bring Snacks
Let’s talk about snacks. Pubs that get footy watch right know that you’re not just there for the beer—you’re there for the experience
. The experience includes snacks. The best pubs will have wings, nachos, or maybe even a “footy platter” with pretzels and cheese. If the pub doesn’t have snacks, you’re already in trouble. Pro tip: If the pub offers a “footy menu,” take it seriously. It’s not just food—it’s fuel for your emotional rollercoaster. (And if they have a “disaster menu,” you’re in for a treat.) Okay, you’re probably thinking, “Why these pubs and not the one down the street with the giant screen?” Here’s the secret: the best pubs to watch footy aren’t just about the screens. They’re about the energy. The staff, the crowd, the way the beer flows when the game does. And if you’re the type who wants to make your own beer to take home after the match, check out Strategies.beer’s guide to making your own beer. Because nothing says “I’m a footy fan” like a pint of your own recipe. If you’re a pub owner and want to be featured in our next “Best Pubs to Watch Footy” list, hit us up at Strategies.beer’s contact page. We’re always looking for places that take footy seriously and snacks even more seriously. Depends on your team. If you’re into early kickoffs, hit the pub at 12 PM. If you’re into late-night games, show up after 9 PM and hope the staff doesn’t kick you out when the game ends. Generally, no. Pubs don’t want to lose money on you. But if you’re a VIP or have a special relationship with the owner, maybe. (Pro tip: If your own beer, you’ll miss out on the pub’s “footy menu.”) That’s okay! There are other games to watch. But if you’re reading this, there’s a 70% chance you’re a football fan. (And we’re not judging you.) Yes, if you’re a craft beer maker or a pub owner looking for a new product, check out Dropt.beer. They’re a beer distribution marketplace that connects pubs with breweries. It’s like Tinder, but for beer and pints. Whether you’re at The Kickabout, The Last Kick, or The Draft House, the best pubs to watch footy know one thing: the game is a shared experience. It’s about the crowd, the beer, and the inevitable moment when your team scores and everyone cheers—even the guy in the jersey of the wrong team. So next time you’re planning a footy night out, skip the usual suspects and go to a pub that gets it. And if you’re inspired to start your own footy-themed pub or craft beer, head over to Strategies.beer for tips on how to make it happen. Because nothing says “success” like a pub where people cheer for your team and drink your beer.Why These Pubs Work
What to Avoid
Pro Tips for the Ultimate Footy Pub Night
Contact Us
FAQs
1. What’s the best time to go to a footy pub?
2. Can I bring my own beer to a footy pub?
3. What if I don’t like football?
4. Can I sell my beer at a footy pub?
Conclusion: Cheers to the Pubs That Get It
