As the oldest trophy in the history of English football, the FA Cup final is more than just a fun day out for the teams involved. And this year, it’s all about bragging rights, with an all-Manchester clash at Wembley Stadium primed for the afternoon of June 3.
Manchester United are looking to win their 13th FA Cup, but just as importantly, are looking to thwart their bitter rivals Manchester City in their quest to become the second team to win the treble (Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup). The only other team to do that? Their red-wearing opponents that they’re facing, who won’t be desperate to defend that legacy or anything, will they now?
It’s Pep Guardiola vs Erik ten Hag. It’s red vs blue. Haaland vs Rashford. It’s the FA Cup final, a Manchester derby, and, short of being at Wembley Stadium in the crowd, these London venues are some of the best spots to catch every bit of the action on June 3.
1. Skylight Tobacco Dock
If you’re disappointed not to be up in the gods at Wembley Stadium on FA Cup final day, then you can swap the red seats for a spot looking out over London’s skyline. Over at Skylight Tobacco Dock, there are five screens, plenty of beer and tasty food, including honey-glazed chicken wings, to ensure you can kick back and cheer on whichever team you so happen to be rooting for in the Manchester Derby. Find out more and book your spot at Skylight here.
2. Big Penny Social, Walthamstow
Big Penny, the giant beer hall in east London, are ramping up the ‘day out’ feel of the FA Cup final and hosting a Manchester-themed affair. Entry is completely free, and guests will be treated to an outdoor barbecue alongside their usual menu, with extra cheesy chips ready for the occasion. A raucous atmosphere with anthems from the DJ is expected at Big Penny, all the way up until the very last kick, be it a pass or a penalty, and the trophy lift. Book your place to watch the FA Cup final at Big Penny Social here.
3. Bar Kick, Shoreditch
The self-proclaimed ‘home of live sport in Shoreditch’ is an ever-lively space to watch the action unfold, with more than a dozen large HD screens and a swanky sound system to watch the clash between Erik Ten Hag and Pep Guardiola’s group of Manchester fighters. Before and after the game itself, fans can play table football while tucking into their selection of burgers and craft beers. Read more and book your spot at Bar Kick here.
4. Lalaland, Shoreditch
The grass-walled paradise that is LaLaLand in Shoreditch is your haven for watching the crunch tie between both sides of Manchester. With DJ sets to enjoy before and after the game, you’ll be able to dance with jubilance or a means to shake away the nerves/pain, depending on the result. Tasty scran is also at your fingertips all game long, with loaded fries, giant burgers, Yorkshire Buritto and more on hand to make sure you’re well-fed and ready for kick-off. Book your spot here.
5. Peckham Arches
The new neighbourhood cocktail and al fresco dining area is the perfect arena to watch Manchester United vs Manchester City in the FA Cup final on a sunny June afternoon. With seven screens peppered around the outdoor terrace, you can be sure to enjoy an excellent view of the action as you tuck into grub from the Middle Eastern-inspired menu and sip on a draft beer. Read more about Peckham Arches and book your place here.
6. The George, Fitzrovia
A historic pub is surely a fitting venue for a historic cup final. Watch Wan Bissaka try and take the ball from Grealish as you sip on a Jameson before enjoying a hearty portion of The George Burger. The FA Cup is one of 19 live sports matches being played throughout the month of June, and you can sift your way through their new menu at each one. Find out more about The George and book here.
7. Duke Of Edinburgh, Brixton
One of the top beer gardens in London for those wishing to catch all the drama of the FA Cup final while the sun is shining away and you’ve carried out a cold lager ready to devour ahead of the game. There are tables scattered across the giant garden and you can also expect tasty grub from Bodeans BBQ to enjoy alongside the action, which will keep you fuelled all the way through to extra time and beyond, should the cards fall that way. Book your spot at Duke Of Edinburgh here.