As the World Cup fever builds this summer, football fans across the UK are being handed the perfect excuse to stay out late, soak up the atmosphere, and cheer on the Three Lions with a pint in hand.
The government has confirmed a nationwide push to extend pub licensing hours, making it easier for venues to keep the drinks flowing and the screens glowing long after full-time.
Pubs could stay open until 2am for World Cup matches
Under the latest plans, pubs will be allowed to open later during key World Cup fixtures, particularly during the knockout stages. That means:
- Pubs can stay open until 1am for matches kicking off between 5pm and 9pm
- Late-night games starting between 9pm and 10pm could see last orders pushed back to 2am
It’s all part of a wider effort to ensure fans don’t miss a single moment or worse, get ushered out mid-penalty shootout.
Councils urged to back late licences and screenings
Communities Secretary Steve Reed is calling on local councils to fast-track applications from pubs looking to extend their hours or host special events, including outdoor screenings and beer garden viewings.
The message is clear: keep the atmosphere alive and avoid unnecessary red tape.
Reed said the “best World Cup moments are the ones we watch together”, urging local leaders to support pubs in creating buzzing match-day environments across the country.
Pavement pints and pub gardens get a boost
It’s not just about staying open later. The government is also looking to make it easier for pubs to serve food and drink outdoors, a move that will be welcomed during a summer tournament.
Plans include:
- Extending pavement licence durations
- Reducing the need for repeated applications
- Cutting down the £350 renewal costs that many businesses currently face
A boost for pubs and high streets
Beyond the football, the changes are also designed to support local businesses and revive high streets. The government says these measures build on wider regeneration efforts, including the £5.8 billion “Pride in Place” programme.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds also weighed in, encouraging councils to take a “common sense” approach particularly when it comes to noise restrictions during crucial matches.
If everything goes to plan, this World Cup could mean packed pub gardens, late-night celebrations, and a much-needed boost for the hospitality sector.
So whether it’s a last-minute winner or the drama of penalties, fans across the UK should be able to watch it all unfold exactly where it belongs surrounded by fellow supporters, with a drink in hand.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
“Nothing brings us all together like a World Cup summer and cheering on England in a packed pub with everyone glued to the game.
Red tape should not get in the way of fans enjoying the game with friends and local pubs doing a great trade too.
A pavement pint in the sunshine discussing the agony of penalties and soaking up the atmosphere is what pubs are all about and we are backing them.
Let’s hope we get a summer of fans enjoying great England wins on the big screen in packed pub gardens.”
