Rugby World Cup 2023: Manchester pubs and bars to watch England take on South Africa- including Freight Island

It’s a big day for England rugby fans, and Manchester is full of top venues where you can watch the action

By Patrick Hollis

Published 17th Oct 2023, 12:16 GMT

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England have reached the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup after a thrilling victory over Fiji. England will face current holders South Africa on Saturday October 21 in a repeat of the 2019 final.

The action will take place over in France, but there will be plenty of spots around Manchester to take in the atmosphere. A win for England would take them to the final for the second year running and set up a clash against either New Zealand or Argentina.

The match kicks off at 8pm, which is a time when many people will be in the midst of their Saturday night out. Many of the spots therefore require a booking and this is recommended to avoid disappointment.

Freight Island

The food and drinks hall on Baring Street has been a hub for the World Cup so far. Bookings are now open for the England vs South Africa match and the match will be shown at the Sports Bar within the complex.

Walkabout Printworks

The Australian themed bar has a huge range of food and drink options, and has shown all Rugby World Cup games so far. You can book your spot in the bar through their website.

Maro Itoje of England breaks through the tackle of Luke Tagi of Fiji during the Rugby World Cup France 2023 Quarter Final match between England and Fiji at Stade Velodrome on October 15, 2023 in Marseille, France. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Box Deansgate

The Deansgate bar has 25 screens showing the action and tables for food and drink can be booked now. The bar has a special World Cup burger called ‘The Scrumdown’.

The burger is special as it combines ingredients most associated with all the home nations at the tournament. It consists of Cumberland sausage patty, Monterey Jack, cheesy creamed leeks, haggis, fried egg, mayo, Guinness BBQ sauce, toasted brioche bun, and house fries.

O’Niell’s Printworks

Another option for those of you who are fans of Printworks, the Irish chain bar is open to bookings now. Well known for its good food menu and extensive food, it’s an ideal spot to watch the rugby and kick start a night out.

Director’s Box

A great spot on Booth Street for food and drink, the Director’s Box shows all sorts of sports. This of course means that the England vs South Africa match will be shown live. The action can be washed down with a range of drinks options.

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