It's fairly well known that the North of England is home to some of the most characterful and cosy pubs in the UK. Whether you’re after a traditional countryside retreat or a modern gastro experience, these pubs offer the perfect blend of local charm, excellent food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Here’s a look at some of the best pubs to visit in North England, complete with the nearest train stations and walking times.
Best pubs in Manchester
Freight Island
Train station: Manchester Piccadilly
Distance from train station: 5-minute walk
Located in the heart of Manchester, Freight Island has become one of the city’s most vibrant social destinations. Just steps from Manchester Piccadilly, this expansive food hall and entertainment space brings together street food vendors, bars and live events under one roof, making it a go-to spot for group gatherings and big occasions.
During the World Cup, Freight Island transforms into a buzzing fan zone, with giant screens showing every match and an electric atmosphere from kick-off to full-time. With a huge selection of global street food, craft beers and cocktails to enjoy, it’s the perfect place to soak up the action. Next time you're in Manchester, head down to Freight Island to catch the game and experience one of the city’s most exciting matchday venues.
Enjoy Europe's biggest World Cup fan park
The Lawn Club, Spinningfields
Train station: Manchester Victoria
Distance from train station: 12-minute walk
Set in the heart of Spinningfields, The Lawn Club is a lively outdoor bar and dining spot known for its laid-back vibes and vibrant city-centre atmosphere. Surrounded by Manchester’s buzzing business and social district, it’s a popular destination for after-work drinks, weekend catch-ups and big events.
During the World Cup, The Lawn Club comes alive with large screens showing all the live action, creating a buzzing fan zone in the middle of the city. With plenty of seating, sharing plates, cocktails and beers flowing, it’s the perfect place to gather with friends and soak up the atmosphere. Next time you’re in Manchester, head to Spinningfields and catch the match at The Lawn Club for a lively and sociable matchday experience.
Best Pubs in York
The Harry Hotspur
Train station: York Station
Distance from train station: 6-minute walk
Located inside York's historic city walls, The Harry Hotspur is a lively pub known from its welcoming atmosphere and characterful setting. A favourite with locals and visitors alike, it combines traditional pub charm with a modern, social feel, making it a great spot to relax after exploring the city.
During the World Cup, The Harry Hotspur becomes a buzzing matchday venue, with big screens showing all the live action and a lively crowd creating an electric atmosphere throughout the tournament. With a solid selection of drinks on offer, it's an ideal place to settle in and enjoy the game. Next time you're in York, make sure to stop by The Harry Hotspur for a memorable football-filled experience.
Enjoy great value at The Harry Hotspur
The Golden Fleece
Train station: York Station
Distance from train station: 15-minute walk
The Golden Fleece has a reputation, not only for being one of the best pubs in York, but also for being York’s most haunted pub. Situated across from the picturesque Shambles, this pub features four inviting rooms for visitors to choose from, each with its own unique charm, as well as a beer garden, so no matter the weather you can enjoy your time here.
Whether you’re looking for a cosy nook to unwind or a lively spot to mingle, The Golden Fleece promises a fun night of intrigue and ghost-spotting.
Best pubs in Newcastle
The Old George
Train station: Newcastle
Distance from train station: 6-minute walk
Situated in the heart of Newcastle’s historic centre, The Old George is one of the city’s oldest pubs, packed with character and charm. With its cosy interiors, traditional feel and central location, it’s a popular stop for anyone exploring the vibrant streets of the city.
During the World Cup, The Old George becomes a lively hub for football fans, with big screens showing all the action and a warm, welcoming atmosphere throughout every match. With a great range of drinks and classic pub favourites on the menu, it’s the perfect place to settle in and enjoy the tournament.
Enjoy live sport at Newcastle's oldest pub
The Strawberry
Train station: Newcastle Central Station
Distance from train station: 14-minute walk
Located at 7/8 Strawberry Place, The Strawberry in Newcastle is not only "the best pub in the toon" filled with a variety of beers and ales, it is also full of over 160 years of history. It is renowned for being the city's most iconic football pub, with the interior walls being littered with Newcastle United memorabilia.
As well as serving a variety of local drinks, it also serves traditional pub grub, both of which you can enjoy while sat in the rooftop terrace overlooking the stadium and the city. Football fans - this is one you can't miss!
Best pubs in Liverpool
BOXPARK
Nearest station: Liverpool Lime Street
Distance from train station: 26-minute walk
Located in the heart of Liverpool, BOXPARK is a vibrant food, drink and entertainment venue built from repurposed shipping containers, bringing together an exciting mix of street food vendors, bars and live events. Known for its energetic atmosphere and social buzz, it’s a go-to spot for big occasions and group gatherings in the city.
During the World Cup, BOXPARK Liverpool transforms into a lively fan park, with large screens showing every match and an electric atmosphere from start to finish. With a wide variety of global food, craft drinks and plenty of space to soak up the action, it’s the perfect place to watch the game with friends.
Teddy's
Nearest station: Liverpool Lime Street
Distance from train station: 9-minute walk
Located in the heart of Liverpool city centre, Teddy’s is a lively bar known for its relaxed atmosphere, great drinks and sociable vibe. Popular with both locals and visitors, it’s a go-to spot for casual nights out, group meet-ups and catching live sport in a central setting.
During the World Cup, Teddy’s turns into a buzzing matchday hotspot, with big screens showing all the action and a lively crowd building an electric atmosphere throughout the tournament. With a strong selection of beers, cocktails and bar food available, it’s the perfect place to settle in and enjoy every moment of the game.
Each of these pubs offers something special, whether it’s their food, their location, or their welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a day trip by train or a weekend getaway, these pubs are perfect for anyone looking to experience the best of Northern hospitality. Find deals on travel with us allowing you to get around with ease.
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