AW Arena, a soft play centre in Ellesmere Port, Chester, has gained attention for hosting late-night World Cup viewing parties until midnight, allowing families to watch matches together. The venue, owned by Chris Aldcroft, features a 250-inch screen, an alcohol license with bottled drinks at £3 and draft beer at £4, and free entry during fixtures. Local mum Chloe Gallagher attended with her three children aged 10, nine, and five, calling it 'absolutely brilliant' after watching England vs Norway. She has already booked for the Argentina match.
Community spirit and late-night fun
AW Arena, which stands for All Weather Arena, includes an indoor football pitch, darts, and pool tables. Aldcroft opened for major matches to bring the community together, despite the license not permitting the full Mexico game. The venue hosted around 200 people for England's last match, with foghorns and England tunes creating a noisy but positive atmosphere on an industrial estate. The kitchen serves late-night food like chips, burgers, and nuggets.
Parent reactions and social media buzz
Chloe Gallagher posted a video on Instagram @thetravelmum.neurodiverse, which received 22,000 likes. Most commenters called the idea 'genius', especially since children are banned from most pubs after 9pm. Some sceptics questioned children's tiredness, but Gallagher managed with strategic naps and snacks. Aldcroft, who left school with no qualifications and signed a 10-year lease to start the business, hopes for a win against Argentina. Entry is free but tables must be booked online in advance.
