The eyes of the sporting world will be on Japan later this week, as the Rugby World Cup kicks off on Friday.
England begin as third favourites, behind South Africa and reigning champions New Zealand, with Eddie Jones’s side coming into the tournament on the back of comprehensive warm-up wins against Italy and Ireland.
England face Tonga in their first group game on Sunday, before taking on the USA on Thursday September 26, Argentina on Saturday October 5 and France on Saturday October 12. The tournament progresses to the semi-finals in October, with the final taking place on November 2.
The time difference between here and Japan means fans will have to get up early to catch the action, with many places opening up especially to show the morning matches.
Be sure, though, to check with bars ahead of kick-off, as not every venue will be showing every game – while plenty are screening the 8.15am and 8.45am kick-offs, you'll struggle to find many places open early enough to show the 5.45am and 6.15am games.
With this in mind, reserve a spot where you can, as places are likely to fill up quickly.
The Prince
Lovely old Fulham pub the Prince, much loved for its Instgram-friendly indoor garden, is welcoming early-rising rugby fans throughout the tournament. The venue is opening its doors at 7.30am on match days, with guests given the option of a breakfast beer and a burger. They've also a special brunch menu in collaboration with the restaurant Wildcard.
14 Lillie Rd, SW6 1TT, theprincelondon.com
Flat Iron Square
This London Bridge spot has been a regular fixture among sports fans for years now, putting on some of the best football World Cup screenings last summer. Now, the venue has overgone a Guinness-style makeover for the tournament, hosting rugby-themed pub quizzes every Monday, as well as Q&As with former England stars Andy Goode and Nick Easter after key matches. Most importantly, it is the only major venue showing every single game of the tournament.
64 Southwark St, SE1, flatironsquare.co.uk
Skylight Rooftop
Head down to Tobacco Dock to see games shown on both indoor and outdoor screens at Skylight. Fans can enjoy brunch while watching the early kick-offs here, before heading upstairs and enjoying one of the best views of the city. Rugby isn’t the only ball game on offer either – guests can also enjoy a game or two of rooftop croquet at their leisure.
Tobacco Dock, Pennington St entrance, E1W 2SF, skylightlondon.com
Boxpark Croydon and Wembley
Boxpark Croydon and Wembley proved themselves as two of the rowdiest places to watch the World Cup last summer, and now they’re hosting rugby fans too. Both venues will be showing selected games throughout the tournament – just don’t be surprised if you get covered in upended beer after the final whistle.
Various locations, boxpark.co.uk
The Clapham Grand - SOLD OUT
This famous old music hall is home to a 24ft cinema screen, as well as one of the best match-day atmospheres in the city. The Grand is showing every England game, as well as every match from the quarter finals onwards. Tickets start from £4.
21-25, The Clapham Grand, SW11 1TT, claphamgrand.com
Greenwood
Victoria sports bar Greenwood is always one of the most reliable options for sport in the city, and the Rugby World Cup is no different. There's a strong drinks selection, and a solid range of match day favourites on offer from the kitchen too, with the venue doing a good line in pizzas, burgers and sharing platters.
170 Victoria St, SW1E 5LB. greenwoodlondon.com
Broadleaf
Broadleaf is one of the smartest sports bars in the city, tucked away just around the corner from Liverpool Street station. The botanical-themed main bar is a plush space to relax during the game, while the upstairs bar is good for bigger groups. There are seven big screens, with the projector used for big games. Expect to find the majority of games on here, including all the England matches.
Tower 42, 25 Old Broad St, EC2N 1HN, broadleaflondon.com
Long Arm Pub & Brewery
Long Arm marks one of the best sports pubs in central London, delivering what you’d expect from a classy sports pubs – big screens, plenty of space, as well as decent food and drink. Guests can sample beer from the venue’s on-site brewery, as well as a good selection of brunch dishes and classic pub grub. Long Arm is opening up early for the majority of the 8.45am kick-offs, and there’s a good American diner-style menu to accompany the lunch-time games too.
20-26 Worship Street, EC2A 2DX, longarmpub.co.uk
