BY Guest
30 Jun
The Definitive Guide to Manchester's Best Sports Pubs
You crave it. The roar of the crowd. The clink of pint glasses. The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat, all experienced in unison surrounded by fellow fans.
For the true sporting enthusiast, watching at home simply won't do. You need to be in the thick of it, in an establishment that lives and breathes sport just as much as you do. Luckily, Manchester is home to some of the UK's most greatest sports pubs, where passion for the game is always on tap.
Whether you're a football fanatic, cricket devotee or just in it for the atmosphere, here is your definitive guide to the best sports pubs in Manchester.
From historic haunts that have been fuelling sporting debates for over a century to state-of-the-art venues with screens as far as the eye can see, this list has everything you need to turn every match day into an unforgettable experience. The only question is, are you ready to join the action?
Top Sports Bars for Premier League Matches
The Sports Bar Mecca
When it comes to watching the beautiful game, Manchester is spoiled for choice. As the birthplace of two of the world's biggest football clubs, it's no surprise that this city is home to some of the best sports bars in the UK.
The Footage is a must for any self-respecting United fan. With over 20 TVs, including three huge projector screens, you'll never miss a kick. They open early for big Champions League nights and major derbies. Get there a few hours before kickoff to grab a good seat - this place fills up fast.
For City supporters, Mary D's is the place to be. They've got Blue Moon on tap and scarves and flags adorning the walls. The energy in this pub during a City match is electric. They show all the games on multiple big screens with the volume up loud, so you can hear every chant from the Etihad.
If you want to avoid the partisan crowds, head to The Piccadilly Tavern. They show matches from all the top leagues and competitions with a more neutral atmosphere. They've also got one of the best beer gardens in the Northern Quarter, perfect for catching some sun on weekends.
While old-school boozers have their charm, modern sports bars are stepping up their game. Upstairs at The Point is a stylish space with luxury seating, table service, and high-end bar snacks. They show every televised football match on ultra-high definition screens with surround sound. An upscale option for watching your team in style.
For any die-hard football fan visiting Manchester, your matchday experience isn't complete without finding the right sports bar to share the highs and lows with your fellow supporters. Luckily, this city has options galore, so you'll never have to endure a match alone again. The beautiful game is always better when watched together!
The Best Sports Pubs to Watch Manchester United
If you bleed red, there are a few must-visit pubs for watching the Red Devils in action.
The Bishop Blaize
This iconic pub has been a United supporters' hub for over 50 years. With multiple screens, real ales on tap and a buzzing atmosphere, you'll feel the passion of the faithful here. Near Old Trafford, this is the place to be before and after matches.
The Trafford Bar
Half a mile from Old Trafford, The Trafford Bar is a popular matchday venue for an authentic fan experience. This no-frills pub has a fantastic range of cask ales and shows the game on multiple HD screens. The atmosphere is always electric, especially for big European nights.
If you want to watch with a fun, rowdy crowd, head to O'Shea's. This Irish bar in the city centre has become a hub for United fans on matchdays. Get there early as it fills up fast. With Guinness on tap and live music, you'll have a cracking time at this red pub.
No matter which boozer you choose, you'll be surrounded by devoted United supporters. These venues capture the passion of true fans and the matchday buzz of following one of the biggest clubs in the world.
Old Trafford Area Pubs - Drink and Be Merry Before the Match
When the Red Devils take the pitch at Old Trafford, the area around the stadium comes alive with anticipation. Some of the best sports pubs in Manchester can be found here, perfect for pre-gaming with fellow fans.
The Trafford Bar
Just a stone's throw from Sir Matt Busby Way, The Trafford Bar is a popular spot for soaking in the pre-match atmosphere. This historic pub opened in 1935 and serves a great selection of local ales and hearty pub grub. Claim a spot in their beer garden, order up a pint, and debate the starting lineup with other supporters.
Sam Platt's
A popular pre-match spot, Sam Platts is a historic pub dating back to the 1800s and a second home for United fans. This family-run institution is only 300 yards from the stadium and opens at 9 am on match days. Enjoy their delicious homemade pies and locally-sourced sausages while reviewing the latest transfer rumors. With scarves and other memorabilia adorning the walls, you'll feel the passion of the fans who have gathered here over the decades.
The Bishop Blaize
The Bishop Blaize is a classic backstreet boozer just a short walk from Old Trafford. This traditional pub is over 200 years old but remains a popular pre-match destination. Grab a pint of crisp Boddingtons or Timothy Taylor's and debate tactics with fellow fans at the bar or out in the beer garden. The Blaize opens at noon on weekends, so arrive early to snag a good spot.
With these fantastic sports pubs nearby, the only thing left to decide is where to start. No matter which one you choose, you'll be surrounded by fellow United supporters and steeped in the atmosphere of match day at Old Trafford. Drink up, cheer loud, and make sure to save your voice for singing at the top of your lungs once inside the stadium!
Experience the Manchester Derby in One of These Lively Venues
When the Manchester derby is on, there's no better place to watch than at one of Manchester's liveliest sports pubs. These venues are packed with passionate City and United fans alike, creating an electric atmosphere that's second only to being at the Etihad or Old Trafford.
The Miter
This iconic pub has been showing the derby for over a century. With numerous screens and projectors, you'll have a prime view of the action no matter where you stand. Pre-game songs and chants echo through the spacious rooms and outdoor beer garden. No one does derby day like The Miter.
Calling all craft beer and footie fans - The Footage is for you. Their 20 taps feature local and imported brews to keep you cheering on your team. Shareable bar snacks like Scotch eggs, pork pies and cheese boards will fuel you for the full 90 minutes. With retro decor and an all-around chilled vibe, The Footage provides a more relaxed way to take in the derby drama.
No matter which side you're on, experiencing the thrills of derby day at an iconic Manchester pub creates memories that will last long after the final whistle blows.
So grab your colors, pick a pub, and get ready to feel the buzz of this city united by football.
Hidden Gems: Manchester's Best Sports Pubs
As experts in live sport, FANZO knows Manchester's pub scene inside and out. We've uncovered some of the city's best hidden gems for watching live sports. These pubs fly under the radar but offer an unbeatable combination of multiple screens, great atmosphere, and real ale on tap.
The Wharf
Tucked away down a cobblestone street, The Wharf is a dimly lit, wood-paneled pub showing matches on 10 HD screens. They have a killer beer selection with local craft ales like Cloudwater and Marble. When there's a big match on, the energy is electric. Arrive early to snag a booth-you'll want to stay for the whole game.
The Castle
In a city chock-full of sports bars, The Castle stands out. They show matches on 20 TVs with two mega-screens for the main event. The laid-back, welcoming vibe makes it easy to chat with other fans. Their homemade Scotch eggs and sausage rolls are legendary. For weekend matches, get there before noon to beat the crowds.
The Northern Quarter
Tucked away in the trendy Northern Quarter, this pub is popular with students and young professionals. They show matches on 15 TVs and often blast the audio throughout the bar. While not a traditional sports pub, the cool, industrial decor and craft beer list attract a stylish crowd. Arrive early as seating is limited, but the energy is always buzzing.
These hidden gems prove that Manchester's pub scene offers something for every sports fan. So download FANZO, the free pub finder app, and discover where to catch your next match. We'll point you to the nearest pubs showing your game and help you beat the crowds. Let's go find your new local.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, sports fans - the definitive guide to watching your favourite teams battle it out over a pint in Manchester.
Whether you're a diehard Red Devils or Cityzens fan, a rugby fanatic, or just fancy catching a bit of cricket during the Ashes, this list has you covered.
No more wasting time on Google trying to find a pub that's actually showing the match or dealing with crowds of tourists drinking overpriced lager.
All that's left for you to do is grab your mates, pick a pub, claim a table and cheer on your team to victory.