When you’re looking for a sports bars London, real pubs in London where fans gather to watch games, cheer loudly, and share a drink without pretense. Also known as football pubs, these spots aren’t just about TV screens—they’re where strangers become allies during a last-minute goal, and where the atmosphere turns electric when the match kicks off. Forget the chain pubs with plastic stools and overpriced lager. The best sports bars in London are the ones locals know by heart—the ones with sticky floors, mismatched chairs, and a wall full of team scarves that haven’t been taken down since 2012.
What makes a good London sports bars, venues in London designed for live sports viewing with strong beer selections, loud crowds, and a no-nonsense vibe. Also known as football pubs, they’re built for the game, not the photo op. It’s not just about having multiple screens. It’s about the sound of a hundred voices exploding when the ball hits the net. It’s about the barman who knows your name after three visits and remembers you always order a pint of Guinness during the second half. It’s about the guy next to you who doesn’t care if you support Arsenal or Chelsea—he just wants to see a good match. These places don’t need fancy décor. They need passion, beer on tap, and a crowd that shows up early.
You’ll find these spots clustered in neighborhoods where football runs deep: Islington near the Emirates, Brixton where the local team’s colors hang from every window, and Camden where the mix of fans turns every game into a festival. Some have outdoor seating for summer matches, others have private booths for groups who don’t want to shout over strangers. A few even serve proper pub food—bangers and mash, not nachos. The key? Go early. Get a table. Order a round. And let the game take over.
And if you’re visiting London and want to feel like a local, skip the fancy rooftop bars. Head to a real sports bars London, venues in London designed for live sports viewing with strong beer selections, loud crowds, and a no-nonsense vibe. Also known as football pubs, they’re built for the game, not the photo op.. Watch the match with people who care. Laugh when they groan. Cheer when they roar. That’s the real London nightlife—not the glitter and noise of clubs, but the raw, unfiltered energy of fans who show up, week after week, for the love of the game.
Below, you’ll find real stories from people who’ve found their favorite spot to watch a match in London—where the beer flows, the crowd roars, and the only thing that matters is what happens on the screen. Whether you’re here for the Premier League, the Champions League, or just a good pub with a decent TV, these posts will show you where to go, what to order, and how to blend in like you’ve been coming here for years.
Discover the best sports bars in London for football, rugby, UFC, and NBA fans. From iconic pubs with giant screens to 24-hour cocktail joints, this guide shows you where to watch, drink, and celebrate like a local.