England fans are eagerly securing tickets to watch World Cup games at pubs well in advance of the tournament kick-off. Some pubs have reported higher demand compared to previous tournaments, with fans keen on securing prime spots to enjoy the matches on big screens.
To accommodate the increased interest, the Home Office has relaxed licensing laws, allowing pubs to extend their operating hours for England and Scotland matches during the knockout stages. This move aims to support the hospitality industry, providing fans with the opportunity to enjoy the games without worrying about closing times.
The World Cup, spanning across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will feature England’s group stage matches starting at either 9pm or 10pm. Pubs will now be allowed to serve alcohol until 1am for early games and until 2am for late fixtures under the updated regulations.
Pubs and venues across the UK are experiencing a surge in bookings for the upcoming matches. Big Penny Social in Walthamstow and Flat Iron Square near London Bridge have already seen high demand for tickets, with limited spaces remaining for certain games. The excitement is palpable as fans gear up to support their teams during the highly anticipated event.
Tim Martin, the head of JD Wetherspoon, highlighted the importance of showing the games to attract customers, emphasizing the significance of major sporting events for the industry. As preparations ramp up for the World Cup, pubs are gearing up to welcome fans and create a vibrant atmosphere for the matches.
In Birmingham, the Gosta Green pub is also gearing up for the World Cup frenzy, expecting bookings to start pouring in soon. With multiple screens, including a large mega-screen, the venue is poised to offer a memorable viewing experience for football enthusiasts as they come together to cheer on their teams.