London pubs will be permitted to remain open until 5am for England's World Cup round-of-16 match against Mexico, following a government U-turn on licensing laws. The game kicks off at 1am BST on Monday July 6 at the Azteca Stadium, with the Three Lions seeking a quarter-final berth after a narrow victory over DR Congo in the previous round.
Government Relaxes Licensing Laws
Initially, it appeared that venues would not be allowed to stay open for the late-night fixture. However, the government reversed its position, granting a special exemption to allow pubs to serve until the final whistle and beyond. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 'Football might be coming home but we're making sure fans don't have to. Pubs staying open till the final whistle is good news for supporters and good news for the pubs and venues that bring our communities together. The whole country will be backing the team. Come on England!'
Venues Showing the Match in London
A wide range of venues across the capital will be screening the match, from outdoor hubs to dedicated sports bars and entertainment complexes. Below is a non-exhaustive list of confirmed locations.
Flat Iron Square
Located near The Shard, this venue features large outdoor screens and heaters to keep fans warm through the early hours. Address: 45 Southwark St, SE1 9HP.
The Garden Vauxhall
Offering three massive LED screens and a lineup of food stalls for midnight snacks. Address: 6A South Lambeth Pl, SW8 1SP.
Pop Brixton
Free tickets are available for the match at this Brixton venue, but they are expected to go quickly. Address: 49 Brixton Station Rd, SW9 8PQ.
Big Penny Social
Open from midday on Sunday with pre-match entertainment, remaining open continuously until the final whistle on Monday morning. Address: 1 Priestley Way, E17 6AL.
Clapham Grand
The game will be shown on a 24ft cinema screen and additional plasma TVs, with live music, DJs, and classic highlights before kick-off. Address: 21-25 St John's Hill, SW11 1TT.
TOCA Social
For a more refined experience, book a booth at TOCA Social in the O2 or Westfield White City, featuring football-themed dining and interactive games. Addresses: Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX and Westfield London, Ariel Way, W12 7GF.
Boxpark
Venues in Camden, Croydon, Wembley, and Shoreditch will all show the match, promising 'a special surprise or two' alongside food and drink. Addresses: 192–198 Camden High St (NW1 8QP), 99 George St, Croydon (CR0 1LD), Olympic Way, Wembley (HA9 0JT), 2–10 Bethnal Green Rd (E1 6GY).
Kick Off Club Fan Zones
Three fan zones are operating under the Kick Off Club banner, each with a distinct theme:
- Electric Brixton – Britpop soundtrack and 90s aesthetic. Address: Town Hall Parade, SW2 1RJ.
- Colour Factory – Lasers, smoke, club lighting, and DJ sets between play. Address: 8 Queen's Yard, White Post Ln, E9 5EN.
- Outernet – London's largest indoor screen with surround sound. Address: Charing Cross Rd, WC2H 8LH.
Bat & Ball
Two locations: Covent Garden and Westfield Stratford City, where 23 screens are available across the complex. Addresses: 50 Earlham St, WC2H 9LJ and Unit 1110/11, Westfield Stratford City, Montfichet Rd, E20 1EJ.
Bar Kick at the Shoreditch Arms
Showing the match on 4K screens across two floors. Address: 127 Shoreditch High St, E1 6JE.
Infernos
The Clapham nightclub will feature a massive screen for the game. Address: 146 Clapham High St, SW4 7UH.
Rae's Summer Sports Lounge
Offering table service, a club-level sound system, an all-weather roof terrace, eight big screens, DJs, and live entertainment. Address: 6 O'Meara St, SE1 1TE.
The Dial – Home of Meantime
This North Greenwich pub has 13 screens broadcasting the match. Address: Unit 3, Green Place, Peninsula Square, SE10 0PE.
Impact and Community Response
The relaxed licensing laws are expected to boost late-night trade for pubs and bars, many of which have faced economic pressures. Fans who cannot attend the match in Mexico will have ample opportunity to watch collectively across the capital. The game is anticipated to draw large crowds, with many venues requiring advance booking or free ticket registration.
