Pub bookings for World Cup already filling up fast - with two months left

Pub bookings for World Cup already filling up fast - with two months leftThe hard hit hospitality sector could be in for a big boost from the looming men's World Cup if early bookings are anything to go byCommentsMoneyGraham Hiscott Business and Consumer Editor14:45, 13 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesSome keen England are getting in early to bag a spot to watch Harry Kane and the rest of the England team in actionPubs have seen a rush of England fans snapping-up tickets to watch World Cup games - despite the tournament not starting for another two months.‌Those keen to get prime seats in front of big screens - particularly with large outdoor spaces or fan zones at popular venues - are getting in early. Some pubs say initial demand is stronger than at this point before previous tournaments.‌The scramble for tickets comes as the Home Office further eased licencing laws, allowing pubs to stay open later to show all England and Scotland matches.‌The World Cup is held across the United States, Mexico and Canada. England’s three group games start at either 9pm or 10pm, starting with Croatia on June 19.In a welcome boost for the beleaguered hospitality industry, the Home Office has given the green light for extended licensing hours across England and Wales for matches featuring England and Scotland in the knockout stages.View 3 ImagesMany fans are expected to head to the pub to celebrate - or drown their sorrows(Image: BENJAMIN CREMEL/AFP via Getty Images)‌Under the new rules, pubs will be permitted to serve until 1am for games kicking off between 5pm and 9pm - and until 2am for later fixtures starting between 9pm and 10pm.The announcement follows an adjustment to earlier proposals, ensuring fans watching evening knockout ties will also benefit from the extended hours.Shabana Mahmood, the home secretary, said: “If our boys are on the pitch, we want our fans to stay in the pub. We won’t have fans coming home before football does.”‌Big Penny Social, a large beer hall with a big o...