- Play Hard
- 14th Jul 2026
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Walk ins welcome: where to watch the England vs Argentina match
Left sorting your semi-final plans until the last minute? Don’t panic. We’ve rounded up the best pubs and bars across the North East where you can simply walk in, grab a pint and soak up the atmosphere, no ticket required.
Kick-off is at 8pm, so get there early, wear your red and white with pride and get ready to sing ‘Hey Jude’.
The WonderBar
Where: The Gate, Newgate Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 5TG
Home to some of the biggest screens in Newcastle, The WonderBar promises an incredible HD viewing experience and an electric match-day atmosphere. With plenty of seating, a wide selection of drinks and a buzzing crowd.
Three Bulls Heads
Where: 57 Percy Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RN
Cold pints, American-inspired food specials and all the atmosphere you could ask for. This city-centre pub is a great place to catch all the action.
Shearer’s
Where: St. James’ Park, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4ST
With more than 50 screens showing every minute live, you won’t miss a single goal, tackle or controversial VAR decision. Add in a menu inspired by footballing nations from Canada to Scotland and you’ve got one of the region’s best places to watch the match.
The Alchemist
Where: 5 Grey’s Quarter, Eldon Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7AP
Walk-ins are welcome, so simply turn up, grab a bucket of beers and enjoy the game. The Alchemist offers the perfect mix of match-day atmosphere and stylish surroundings.
Keel Square
Where: High Street West, City Centre, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR1 3DZ
A free city-centre fan zone complete with a giant screen, street food vendors and a fantastic atmosphere. Pre-match coverage starts from 7pm, so arrive early if you want a seat.
The Saltgrass
Where: Ayres Quay, Hanover Place, Sunderland SR4 6BY
A Sunderland favourite with a huge marquee, a big screen and one of the city’s best football atmospheres. Expect a lively crowd from well before kick-off.
Barge & Barrel
Where: 3-4 Burdon Road, Sunderland, SR1 1QB
If you’re watching in Sunderland city centre, Barge & Barrel is a great shout. Expect good-value drinks, a friendly crowd and plenty of football banter throughout the evening.
The Sheepfolds Stables
Where: Easington Street, Monkwearmouth, Sunderland SR5 1BA
Outdoors, a big screen and bench seating, what more could you want for night of football? Seating in The Sheepfolds courtyard is first come first serve, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.
The Half Moon Inn
Where: 86 New Elvet, Durham, DH1 3AQ
A popular Durham pub with a welcoming atmosphere, The Half Moon Inn is a great option for anyone wanting to enjoy the game away from the city crowds. Grab a pint, find a spot in front of the screen and settle in for what promises to be a huge night of football.
Black Bull Benton
Where: Front Street, Benton, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7XE
An unforgettable match day experience with unbeatable food and drink offers. With multiple screens around the pub, booking is not a necessity – just show up and be ready to cheer (we hope).
Champ’s Sports Bar & Grill
Where: Dunnock Drive, Washington NE38 0EF
If you’re after the full sports bar experience, this is hard to beat. With one giant screen and 38 TVs throughout the venue, you’ll have no trouble finding a great view of the action while soaking up the atmosphere.
Molly Ferry
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