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London Pubs & Football

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Take in an English soccer game aka a footie at one of the many London stadiums followed by a hearty meal and a pint at a local pub.

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Author: Erin

Day 1 - London

Experience England's pastime with an exciting football (soccer) match preceded/followed/both by a pub visit. London is home to several Premier League teams with the two most famous being Arsenal and Chelsea. Finding tickets to the posh Chelsea match may be a bit difficult, while tickets are easier to come by at the new 60,000 seat Emirates Stadium for Arsenal fans. For families, head to Craven Cottage at the edge of Bishop's Park on the Thames for a Fulham game where tickets are more affordable. The Johnny Hayes stand have cool views of the River Thames. If raucous and rowdy is more your speed, try Tottenham or West Ham. To get in the spirit, check the teams' websites for the designated pre-match pub to learn a few team songs and enjoy a pint ... or two. Insider tip on supporting a team: opposing fans must sit in designated areas and will not be able to mix with the home crowd. Also be mindful of your attire, taking note of the team colors. Then off to the pub! Part of the English way of life, pubs provide a place to socialize, watch sports and spend a pleasant evening away from home. Now there are many types of pubs ... some are just for drinking despite having a food menu & there is the gastropub, meaning your meal is thoughtfully created by a proper chef. A few notable public houses are The Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street, The Dove in Hammersmith (which claims to be the oldest along the Thames) & The Lamb on Conduit Street, complete with screens to separate the commoners from the affluent. For gastropubs I quite like The Swan in Chiswick and The Only Running Footman in Mayfair (isn't that a great name?). Most pubs are not open to children; however, some may allow kids for lunch or in the garden.

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