Liverpool are the most successful English side in the history of the Champions League, boasting six titles after 2019's triumph, but they given they head into this week's round of 16 clash trailing, fans will be debating the future of the club in the pubs and bars on Merseyside.
The best pubs in Liverpool to watch football in are sure to be packed with supporters on Wednesday considering the stakes, and a whole host of spots around the city will provide a great matchday atmosphere as well as excellent service amidst the excitement and tension of the big game.
Arne Slot‘s Reds are set to face Turkish giants Galatasaray at Anfield, where they will fight to overturn the 1-0 defeat they suffered at RAMS Park in last Tuesday's disappointing first leg.
Former Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Mario Lemina scored the only goal of the game early on, and the likes of Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz and Mohamed Salah failed to respond. That being said, the Merseysiders could be at an advantage this time around with Gala's fans banned for the showdown.
Looking for somewhere to catch the action? Read on as Football Ground Guide takes a look at some of the best pubs in Liverpool to watch football in ahead of the Reds' round of 16 second leg against Galatasaray at Anfield.
Best pubs in Liverpool to watch football – Popular sports bars
If you want to watch football in Liverpool in and amongst other groups of football fanatics, then the following sports bars are all viable options.
Bierkeller/Shooters
One of the more popular destinations for fans to watch football in Liverpool is The Bierkeller. There are 20 HD TVs packed inside the venue, making it one of the most sociable environments to catch the live action.
At the Shooters Rack n Roll bar, games are displayed on a large projector screen and TVs. Guests enjoy German beers served in steins, paired with a variety of traditional Bavarian dishes. Additionally, the bar offers games like beer pong, pool, and darts for entertainment before and after the matches.
In terms of downsides to Biekeller, there really aren't too many, but if we were to offer one, then the prices of drinks in here are certainly on the high side compared to the rest of the city.
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Celebrations at the Bierkeller as the Red’s take home the Carabao cup!??#CarabaoCup #CarabaoCup #Klopp #LFC #VanDijk #CarabaoCupFinal #liverpoolfans #LiverpoolFC #Reds #football #sportsbar #liverpoolcity #Liverpool #bierkeller #YNWA pic.twitter.com/Cg5mOxbPcB
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The Long Shot
The Long Shot is another venue that would be worthy of a visit, with the sports bar a well known establishment in Liverpool. Located on Albert Dock, away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, this sports bar has two floors of seating, countless giant TVs, and darts boards and pool tables to keep you occupied in between matches and at half-time.
The Long Shot also importantly serves hot food and even transforms into a party venue at night when no live sport is on, meaning you can, in theory, spend an entire day and evening in here without even realising.
You are able to book tables well in advance at the Long Shoot, and for specific matches, too. Liverpool and Everton matches usually sell out quickly, so act fast to avoid disappointment.
McCooley's
McCooley’s, located on Mathew Street, is one of many Irish bars in Liverpool. There is no shortage of big screens showing the football, along with a variety of traditional pub food and drink choices.
Pubs in Concert Square to watch football
Another McCooley’s location can be found in Concert Square, making it a great spot to check out while you’re nearby. For a unique experience, consider visiting Einstein Bier Haus as well.
With 18 beers on tap and numerous large TV screens showing the football, this is one of the best places to watch matches in Liverpool.
On their website, they describe the venue as “Liverpool’s newest day-to-night venue in Concert Square. Set over two floors with hearty food, great bier, sport and live music.”
Watching the football in Concert Square does have its downsides, though. Locals consider this area of the city centre to be nothing but a tourist trap so if you want to enjoy a match with fellow scousers, then perhaps avoid Concert Square.
Hidden gems to watch football in Liverpool
The Small Hands Company refurbished Denbigh Castle in 2020, and it has since become a hidden gem in Liverpool. It opened in the 19th century but was renamed twice before it was reopened and restored to its original name in 2020.
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A big 4 years old todayThanks for all your continued love and support ? pic.twitter.com/cjS5GSOEV1
— The Denbigh Castle (@DenbighCastl) July 9, 2024
Inside, multiple TVs display Sky Sports and TNT Sport, complemented by British pub food, German lagers, and craft beers.
Gravity Max is a must-visit, featuring some of the largest screens in Liverpool. Alongside numerous tasty and fresh food options, there are also pour-your-own beer pumps to keep your drinks flowing during the match.