Every major international football tournament attracts great interest, but there’s an extra buzz around Euro 2024. Maybe it’s because England are the clear favourites to win it, after coming so close to glory last time around.
It’s also a time when pubs and sports bars around the UK take advantage of a major competition. Watching games with friends has become an event, and there are many bars in and around York looking to provide an unforgettable experience.
England Expects
With a strong squad heading to Germany, current online betting markets show Gareth Southgate’s England side as favourites to win Euro 24. Many of the squad that reached the final of the previous tournament are included, with much depending on the country’s record goal scorer Harry Kane.
England are drawn in a tough group alongside Denmark, Serbia and Slovenia, so every game is going to be unmissable. Here are the top places in York to catch the action.
Old White Swan
Part of the Nicholson’s chain of pubs, the Old White Swan is located in York’s historic city centre. Because of its convenient location, it gets busy for the big match days, but it is also set to provide one of the best atmospheres for Euro 24.
It is possible to book a table at the Old White Swan, but customers will need to get in early for such a major competition. The location promises new drinks packages for the Euros, and every game will be shown live and in HD.
Cock and Bottle
All pubs in the city centre are set to be busy across the upcoming tournament, so if you want something quieter, it may be wise to look away from the main streets. In Skeldergate, the Cock and Bottle shows all the big live games, and it’s a lively pub with activities throughout the week.
One potential issue with the Cock and Bottle is that it doesn’t take reservations, so if you’re looking for a table, you may struggle during England matches. However, its location on the outskirts of the city means that it may be quieter than those in the centre.
O’Neill’s
The O’Neills chain of Irish pubs is renowned for its approach to entertainment and sports. There’s often live music to be found, along with the best in major sporting events.
York’s version of O’Neills is situated on Low Ousegate. Once again, it’s likely to be a busy venue, but there is the possibility of booking a table for Euro 24 games. Special events and promotions are also likely in one of the most popular sports bars in the city.
Cross Keys
A historic Victorian Pub, the Cross Keys is now the first choice for lovers of craft beer. There are plenty of ales, ciders and other drinks too, in a location that sits in the shadow of York Minster.
While there are no official fan parks in York, the Cross Keys is a good option for those who want an outdoor experience. The bar has a large “urban outdoor seating area,” which will undoubtedly offer a lively atmosphere across all games.
Stone Roses Bar
The Stone Roses were a Manchester band, but they clearly had a loyal following in York. The bar which is named after them, is a haven for lovers of the Indie genre, with great music and memorabilia within its four walls.
Along with the music, this venue is also known throughout York as one of the best places to watch live sport. The Stone Roses bar is a large city centre location, and while it will be busy during the Euros, the extra space will make it more likely that you’ll find a table here.
The Priory
Anyone travelling into York will find the Priory a convenient place to enjoy live sport. It’s situated close to the city’s railway station, and it’s one of the biggest and most accommodating places for major football matches.
The Priory has several TV screens, so you’ll be able to catch the action from wherever you happen to be. It also has a large beer garden, which is set to have additional screening for the European Championships. With a great choice of beer and food, the Priory will be one of the most popular destinations for locals, students and tourists alike.
The good news is that there is so much choice when it comes to watching Euro 24 in York. It’s advisable to book in advance where possible and to arrive early for the bigger games, including all of England’s matches.
If one location is full, that huge choice means that there should be at least one more venue with empty seats or standing room. These are the best options for football lovers, and it promises to be a great occasion with an incredible atmosphere at all of these top bars.