This year, with England’s amazing and unexpected performance to remain in the tournament far longer than anyone could realistically have hoped, interest in the World Cup has been at an all-time high.
However, whatever team you are supporting, and even if you are not usually a big football fan, there is something about a World Cup final that transcends team loyalty, or even sport itself.
This is an event that will be witnessed by at least a billion people across the world, and it is something that only comes around every four years.
Whatever happens when France takes on Croatia in the final, you will remember where you were when the winning goal was scored. So why not do yourself a favour, and make it somewhere a little more interesting than the sofa in your living room?
Manchester has some great venues that will be showing the action, and it’s not too late to get along to one of them.
So put on your football shirt, log on to the SportyTrader website to place a bet on the outcome and settle down with a few hundred like-minded Mancunians to enjoy the best of the action. So what if football’s not coming home? That doesn’t mean you have to stay at home!
Nothing is Impossible
Given the twists and turns that this World Cup has produced so far, it seems stangely appropriate that the biggest screens are to be found at a bar and restaurant called Impossible.
Formerly known as Bar 38, this venue underwent a multi million pound makeover last year and has quickly acquired a reputation as being a trendy but friendly haunt for locals and visitors alike.
There’s always a convivial atmosphere, and there’s plenty of space. The huge outdoor screen means everyone is guaranteed a grandstand view. And if the weather turns, there are big screens inside too.
Watch in style at the King Street Townhouse
If you want to get away from the rabble and enjoy the final in select company and a cinema-like atmosphere, head over to the King Street Townhouse in the city centre.
They will be showing the game in their screening room, which is like a miniature cinema, complete with surround sound and plush seating. Just keep in mind that there are only 20 seats there, and they don’t take bookings – it is strictly first come, first served, so get there very early!
The venue has also indicated that it will be showing the game in their gorgeous South Terrace on the top floor, provided they do not receive any last minute private bookings.
Unbeatable atmosphere at Gorilla
This venue might be better known for its live music – Kylie played an intimate gig as a warm up to her stadium tour earlier this year and it went down a storm.
However, this month, they are all about the football. Free entry, a 13-foot screen and the best signature burgers and hot dogs you could wish for tick all the boxes.
The atmosphere will be amazing.
Pop in to the pop up in Altrincham
Prefer something a little more cosy? Then you might want to venture outside the city centre to Altrincham.
Football crazy beer lovers Paul Rooney and Ian Smythe launched their own pop up beer bar on Railway Street and it has been a massive success with locals throughout the World Cup campaign.
Even if you don’t know a soul there, you soon feel as if you are in an old fashioned bar with some of your best mates.
Catch it while you can, and soak up the atmosphere. Just remember, if you want to get a good view of the action, you’ll need to bag your spot early!
