Golf fans heading to Royal Birkdale for the 2026 Open Championship could be in for one of the greatest sporting weekends of the year.
As the world’s best golfers battle for the Claret Jug on the Southport links, the World Cup will also be reaching its conclusion. And who knows, England might have a claim at having a winner in both.
Whether you’re looking to cheer the Three Lions on, or doing the complete opposite, there will be plenty of golf fans on the hunt for somewhere to catch the action. England face Argentina on Wednesday, July 15, at 8 pm, and could have a World Cup final date on Sunday, July 19.
Some spectators may be staying in Southport, camping near Ainsdale, based in Formby or heading into Liverpool city centre after a day at the northwest links. Here are some of the best places to soak up the World Cup atmosphere wherever you’re heading come Wednesday evening, and maybe even Sunday evening.
1. The Southport Coaster
Just a short drive from Royal Birkdale, The Southport Coaster is one of the town’s go-to sports pubs. With multiple televisions dotted around the pub and plenty of seating, it’s perfectly set up for major sporting events.
If you’ve spent the day following the action at The Open, this is one of the easiest places to get to. It’s only a six-minute drive from Birkdale.
2. The Southport Tavern
Another hugely accessible boozer as it is conveniently located near Southport train station. This central location makes it ideal if you’re staying in one of the town’s many hotels or guest houses.
3. Connolly’s Irish Bar
Who doesn’t like an Irish pub? We couldn’t possibly make this list without including one. In typical Irish fashion, Connolly’s offers a welcoming and relaxing place to enjoy live music, a Sunday roast, a pint of Guinness and the World Cup.
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As you would expect, there are big screens and plenty of televisions throughout the bar. All in all, this is a great place to watch the biggest games in football.
4. Maverick’s
Another option for those staying in Southport for Open Week is Maverick’s. An American-themed sports bar that feels particularly fitting for this year’s competition.
Maverick’s features multiple screens around the venue and offers a different atmosphere from the traditional pub scene, making it a great option for groups in particular.
5. The Cross House
The Greene King pub is well equipped for live sport, showing matches across Sky Sports and TNT Sports on multiple big screens, with table bookings available for major fixtures.
Add in a spacious beer garden, classic pub food and a family-friendly atmosphere, it quickly becomes the ideal place to unwind after a day walking around Birkdale before settling in for the evening’s football.
6. The Freshfield
Again, if you’re staying closer to Formby, The Freshfield is one of the area’s best-known pubs.
Popular with both locals and visitors, it’s a comfortable spot for post-golf food and drinks. The nearby train station also makes travelling back towards Southport or Liverpool straightforward.
7. The Long Shot
If you’re heading back into the city centre after the conclusion of golf’s oldest major, then The Long Shot should be high on your list.
Located at the Royal Albert Dock, it’s purpose-built for live sport with huge screens, excellent food and an atmosphere that ramps up for major tournaments. A real party venue. Booking ahead is recommended during World Cup knockout matches.
8. The Bierkeller Liverpool
Another sports bar, this is one of Liverpool’s most famous venues to watch sport. Long communal tables and giant screens; there is an energy of a German beer hall to the place.
9. O’Neill’s
For those coming over the Irish Sea and are looking for a bit of home, O’Neill’s is the gaff. Expect a lively crowd, plenty of food and drink options, and an atmosphere that builds as kick-off approaches.
It is located in the heart of the city and is accustomed to hosting its fair share of sporting events on its multiple screens all year round.
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LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK
Will you be heading to Royal Birkdale for the 2026 Open Championship? If so, will you be rushing out to watch the World Cup semi-finals and final at one of these England football pubs? Let us know by leaving a comment or by getting in touch with us on X!
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