The World Cup is taking place in North America this year (which most of us won’t be flying out to), but there are still plenty of ways to watch and get involved in Edinburgh this summer. It’s a historic World Cup campaign for Scotland, who have qualified for the first time in 28 years.
In true patriotic fashion, several pubs and bars across the city have attained special licenses to catch some of the event’s early hours kickoffs.
- The Pear Tree
A go-to for students regardless of whether the football is on or not, The Pear Tree will be showing all World Cup matches this summer. Fair warning: you do need to book a table in advance if you want to secure a spot there and enjoy the World Cup on the largest sport screens in the city. It definitely doesn’t hurt that the drinks here are pretty cheap.
- Union Social
Once again a familiar setting, Teviot’s Union Social will be screening all World Cup matches, even providing special pizza, pie, and pint deals too. The football will also be screened outside in Union Social Garden until 1am, with later matches shown inside only.
- The Southsider
A Super Bowl favourite for many in February, The Southsider is showing all of the tournament’s fixtures. Similarly to Pear Tree, it is operating on a booking basis — undoubtedly due to unprecedented demand. Make sure to snag your seat there to enjoy their new World Cup inspired dishes, including but not limited to Canadian loaded fries and specialty drinks.
- The Three Sisters
The Three Sisters always delivers an electric atmosphere, and this won’t differ as we enter World Cup season. Their massive screens make them a prime location to catch whichever matches you please, with sound on well into the wee hours!
- King Pins
King Pins at Waverley is offering something a little different to the traditional World Cup experience. They will be screening all matches, but alongside the late night football chaos, patrons can enjoy bowling, curling, darts, pool, ping pong, and even the arcade if they so wish. It’ll definitely be a great place to set up shop if you plan on watching multiple matches in a day; there’s plenty going on to entertain you and fill gaps between fixtures.
From this wide selection of pubs to choose from, you’re sure to never miss a match. The Scotland vs Haiti game takes place Sunday at 2 AM. See you there!
Photo by Alvaro Palacios on Unsplash is licensed under the Unsplash License.