Where to watch the World Cup in Manchester: the fanzones
Five World Cup fanzones in Manchester to book before football fever hits
Published 26 May, 2026
The World Cup is about to start, and if you didn’t fancy a trip to Trump’s America to see it firsthand, it’s about now you’ll be deciding where to watch the England matches.
Judging by the number football-related press releases landing in my inbox, there’ll be no shortage of pubs and bars in Manchester showing the World Cup. But if you’re looking for something that recreates the feeling of being there live – the communal singalongs, the contagious excitement, the camaraderie – one of these fanzones could be your best bet.
These big-venue screenings really amp up the atmosphere with light shows, entertainment, DJs, and huge sound systems. It’s a party vibe and a great way to celebrate our country’s love of football with fellow fans. Better still, you won’t have to worry about your chosen pub being full by the time you arrive – handy if you’re heading out in a group.
Here we’ve picked out five World Cup fanzones in Manchester that you can book now. Unlike in America, ticket prices tend to rise as the tournament gets closer, so early booking is recommended.
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Book Now Manchester City CentreMore details
AO Arena
Road to Victory at AO Arena
The only Manchester fanzone that can offer a true stadium atmosphere, the AO’s massively popular Road to Victory events return for the World Cup 2026. There’ll probably be a bigger crowd here than in Dallas, and it’ll definitely be louder. The AO knows how to put on a show – expect world-class production coupled with all the facilities you need for big crowds (like loads of bars, tap-grab-go service, and plenty of toilets). Nobody wants to miss a goal because they were waiting to get served.
Cheapest pint: TBC but there’ll be deals to keep it on a level with other fanzones
Tickets: TBC
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St John'sMore detailsCourts Club
Summer of Sport at The Courts Club
The big draw here is there’s both outdoor and indoor screens so your watch party will be weatherproof, rain or shine. As well as the big screens, they’re promising live entertainment and quizzes. Food is designed for eating without taking your eyes off the action – think brioche hot dogs with home-made half-sour pickles, loaded fries, and chicken bites. Drinks-wise you’ve got draught beers, spritzes, cocktails and more.
Cheapest pint: Courts Club lager, £6
Tickets: £5 + booking fee for standing entry. Seats are first-come, first-served -
PiccadillyMore detailsDiecast
World Cup Nights presented by Coca Cola at Diecast
Diecast’s World Cup Nights start with a two-hour pre-match show to build the atmosphere before kick-off on the big screens. There’ll be a celebrity host, England legends, DJs, dancers, performances, quizzes and competitions. Fingers crossed, the England squad deliver a performance that lives up to the excitement.
Cheapest pint: Raintown fresh tank lager: £6.90Tickets: £10 + booking fee for standing entry
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Manchester City CentreMore detailsFreight Island
We Are Football Festival at Freight Island
Brought to you by the producers of The Warehouse Project, the 4TheFans We Are Football festival spreads across the cavernous settings of Depot Mayfield and Freight Island. Massive anti-glare screens, huge sound systems, DJs, light shows and special effects will bring the drama even to the dullest 0-0 draw. There’ll be Sky Sports presenters and football legends on stage, a Footy Fun Village with games and giveaways, plus family zones and VIP zones.
Cheapest pint: Freight Island lager, £5.70
Tickets: Currently £6 + booking fee for standing entry
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Victoria ParkMore detailsVictoria Baths
Victory at the Baths at Victoria Baths
The most leftfield setting for a fanzone award goes to Victoria Baths where they’ll have a big screen hoisted above the main pool area (it’s empty – no need to bring your Speedos). The second pool area will provide a more relaxed setting to watch with bars and street food stalls. There’s only 500 tickets available for each game so it’s a good choice if you want all the communal crowd vibes without the huge numbers.
Cheapest pint: Not sure but expect something cool and fresh from partners Manchester Union BreweryTickets: Currently £7 + booking fee for standing entry
