The FA Cup: Where to watch it and where to avoid it
The FA Cup final is just around the corner, and if you know your red cards from your yellows, you've probably been counting down the days until the kick-off. But for those of you who don’t like talking about offside and penalties, it's a day to steer clear of the football frenzy altogether. Lucky for you, all across the UK, there are tons of cool places to catch the game - and plenty of cool places to avoid it too. Whatever you're in the mood for, DesignMyNight's got you covered.
The Best Places To Watch The FA Cup Final
The Star By Liverpool Street - London
Are you a football fanatic who also loves to belt out a tune or two? Well, you're in luck. The Star at Liverpool Street has got you covered for the FA Cup Final with the ultimate double whammy. Not only are they fully geared up for the football, but they've also got five karaoke rooms with unique themes, perfect for a post-match singalong. Their Hotbox selection of comfort food will blow your mind too. We're talking smoked pork ribs, bao buns and mac and cheese balls that are guaranteed to score points with your tastebuds.
The Beeston Social - Nottingham
Who says watching live sports has to involve dodging beer-soaked t-shirts and elbowing your way through bustling crowds? The Beeston Social is an absolute stunner for plant lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike, *and* it doubles as an incredible spot to catch the football. You'll definitely want to snap a few pics of the gorgeous surroundings but when it's time for kick off, head up to their lounge bar for prime viewing. After the final whistle blows, make your way to their retro arcade for some old-school fun.
Peppermint - Cardiff
Instead of heading to your local to watch the final, why not catch the game somewhere with a bit of a boujee edge? Not only is Peppermint one of the best spots in Cardiff to grab a cheeky cocktail, it’s also great for watching the footy. They’ve got an epic line-up of drinks (think chocolatey concoctions and candy floss garnishes), ample screens and plenty of space to sprawl out. You won’t miss a beat of the action. But if you need a breather, just mosey on out to their stunning outdoor terrace and savour a sip or two.
Three Mile - Newcastle
Newcastle is known for its unmatched nightlife scene, but what if you’re just wanting somewhere to watch the football with a pint (or cheeky cocktail) in hand? Well, that’s where the award-winning Three Mile comes in. This fabulously chic pub in the heart of Gosforth offers tasty pub grub, alongside delicious pizzas from their New York-style restaurant. You can catch all the big games in their beer garden too. If the weather plays ball, there’s no better place to soak up some rays whilst cheering on your fave team.
Nursery Tavern - Sheffield
Known lovingly as ‘Tav’ by the locals, the Nursery Tavern is branded as the best pub in Sheffield. It’s great if you love a classic pub look with a contemporary twist, boasting photo-ready neon signs to the funkiest artwork that would look right at home in your living room. The beer garden is also incredible and not just for basking in the sun might we add. It's got giant screens that are on standby to show live sporting fixtures making it a no-brainer for the FA Cup Final. All you need to do is book your table.
Where To Avoid The FA Cup Final
Sunset By Australasia - Manchester
For many, Sunset by Australasia’s beauty is one of its best qualities. But for some Mancunians, it’s that fact that even if it were the end of the world, you wouldn’t find it screening the football. This insanely Instagrammable cocktail bar is a vision in pink, boasting some of the sexiest decor in the city and it’s a great place to dodge the FA Cup Final. Their cocktail menu is a winner (the frozen pornstar martinis are a right of passage) and their exotic afternoon tea is one of the most unique in the city.
The Florist - Liverpool
Hold onto your fairy wings because The Florist is the ultimate spot for a tranquil escape in Liverpool. It's like stepping into an enchanted forest, but instead of singing Disney princesses, you're surrounded by boozy cocktails. Don't forget to snap some pics with the squad before sinking your teeth into one of their legendary hanging kebabs - trust us, they taste even better than they look. You can also quench your thirst by sipping on one of their botanically-inspired cocktails that are sure to bring some serious floral flair to your day.
The Wiremill - Newchapel
If you travel just an hour outside of London, you’ll come across the absolute gem that is The Wiremill. This hidden treasure comes with a view of the lake and it’s so far from the hustle and bustle of the city you’d swear you’re in the Lake District. But don’t just take our word for it, go and book a table and experience the views for yourself - top tip, they go nicely with a glass of sauvignon. You can also book into one of the six en-suite hotel rooms for the ultimate luxury stay if you don’t fancy driving back to the Big Smoke straight away.
Peachy Queen - Bournemouth
Have you been actively looking for an excuse to wear your brand-new River Island outfit? Well now you can. Peachy Queen is the ultimate girly fantasia that’s been plastered from head to toe in pink. These guys are known for their themed bottomless brunches, ranging from Spice Girls to Grease, as well as their tasty cocktail menu (definitely try out the ‘tropic like it’s hot’). Forget the footy and book in for bottomless brunch which includes pizza, bubbles and all the pop tunes you could ask for. Promise you won’t regret.
Pawsitive Cafe - London
Get ready for cuteness overload. Pawsitive Cafe in Notting Hill is a dog-friendly cafe where everyone who walks through the door has a chance to share in their love and appreciation for our four-legged friends. Sounds so much better than watching the football, right? Bring your dog along to this gorgeous spot, where you can spoil them with their very own puppy afternoon tea while you tuck into succulent burgers, chicken katsu and all kinds of brunch dishes.
For more info on the best sports bars in London, visit DesignMyNight.com and follow us on Instagram and Facebook; @DesignMyNight.