From historic pubs to hot tubs on the Thames, we round up the best places in London to watch England, Wales, Scotland, France, Italy and Ireland battle it out in the Men’s 2023 Guinness Six Nations.
Sports fans won’t need telling that the Six Nations, one of the most anticipated events in men’s international rugby, kicks off this weekend, with Wales versus Ireland at 14:15 on Saturday (4 February). Afterwards, England and Scotland go head-to-head for the Calcutta Cup at Twickenham, before Italy host the 2022 Grand Slam champions France in the Italian capital the following afternoon. If you’re in London during this year’s Six Nations tournament and looking for a great spot to pitch up in for an afternoon of rugby, then we’ve got you covered. Between family-friendly options and delicious pub grub, here are the best places to watch the Six Nations in the capital this year.
North London: The Faltering Fullback
If you’re up in North London this weekend then head over to The Faltering Fullback, a lively, well-revered sports pub in Finsbury Park. Known for its quirky indoor and outdoor spaces, most notably the exotic foliage surrounding its heated beer garden, the ‘FF’ is a crowd favourite.
Grab a table in the designated sports room at the back, which has been affectionately dubbed the ‘sin bin’, and settle into the game accompanied by some lip-smacking Thai food and local ales. Faltering Fullback is walk-ins only, so get in early to secure a spot by one of several large TV screens.
North London: Valderrama’s
Situated on the bustling Upper Street, Valderrama’s will soon become your go to for all sporting events, with regular screenings of the Premier League and Women’s Super League, as well as the Six Nations. Grab your pals and head down to watch the games at the bustling North London spot, and order a range of delicious fried chicken burgers, wings and dirty hashbrows for the ultimate game day feast. In true Six Nations style, Guinness is available on tap, but for those who would prefer another tipple, frozen margaritas and Beavertown beers will also be available.
East London: The Princess Of Wales
In 1871, England players gathered at the Princess of Wales in Blackheath before the first ever international rugby match. And although current England captain Owen Farrell is unlikely to feature for a peptalk and an IPA, the pub’s sporting history ensures its ambiance.
Pre-order a special Six Nations food package to get snacky while the game gets scrappy. Wash things down with a drink or two; highlights from the Princess’ craft beer selection include Siren Yulu, an intricate mix of Earl Grey and citrus notes, and Brewgooder Tropical Pale Ale, an easy drinking mango and passionfruit brew (like a J2O for adults). The pub is dog- and family-friendly, but they ask that you include the number of children in the party when making a booking. Tables can be reserved here.
South London: The Merchant Of Battersea
Steaming with steaks, pies and the cheesy draft of gooey nachos, this Clapham favourite is known for its hearty comfort food and locally sourced craft beers. But be warned — the desserts are enticing and enormous.
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The Merchant has claimed the right to call itself ‘a sports venue with a proper atmosphere’. Three large projector screens and a load of TVs mean you won’t have to try hard to catch any TMO action. It also means that you can still get involved from a quieter corner if you’re watching with children. Book a table here.
West London: The Cabbage Patch, Twickenham
A short walk from Twickenham Stadium, The Cabbage Patch has weathered all sorts of storms: England’s loss to South Africa in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final; and perhaps most regrettably, a handful of French victories in London. Throughout, it has been the classic port of call for fans before and after every English Home win, loss and draw. This famous allotment is adorned with shirts and rugby balls signed by a variety of players, the most renowned of which is Jonah Lomu. Its decor and atmosphere make the Cabbage Patch the perfect place to watch the Six Nations. Book a table or private room here.
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Try something different: Skuna Boats’ Six Nations Hot Tub Boat Experience
Head to Canary Wharf to get heated with Skuna Boats’ Six Nations Hot Tub Boat Experience. Picture the scene: a fleet of private, moored hot tub boats under a garrison of 55in screens; the cacophonous noise of a stadium on large outdoor speakers, while you enjoy a soothing soak on the Thames. The hot tubs can fit groups of seven and the £225 fee covers the tub from 15 minutes before kick-off until full time, toilets, lockers, changing facilities and one round of drinks. Towels are available for hire, but you can bring your own.
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