Five Best Scottish Pubs to Watch World Cup and Cheer on Tartan Army
Five Best Scottish Pubs to Watch World Cup and Cheer Tartan Army

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here, and excitement has reached fever pitch across Scotland. It has been 28 long years since Scotland last qualified for the tournament in 1998, and fans are eager to cheer on the national team as they face Haiti on June 14. While watching at home is an option, nothing beats the electric atmosphere of a pub filled with fellow supporters. The Daily Record has rounded up five of the best pubs across Scotland where you can soak up the action and support the Tartan Army.

1. Cold Town House, Edinburgh

Cold Town House is a craft beer pub located on Edinburgh's iconic Grassmarket, known for its roof terrace with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. Named the "best beer destination" in Scotland at the 2025 Scottish Beer Awards, this three-storey venue will screen all of Scotland's matches, along with England's games, the semifinals, and the finals. To celebrate Scotland's return, Cold Town House will serve a limited-edition World Cup beer. The venue promises "the biggest football atmosphere Grassmarket has seen in years." Arrive early to secure a spot.

2. The Horseshoe Bar, Glasgow

The Horseshoe Bar on Drury Street in central Glasgow boasts a grand Victorian bar that is reportedly the longest in Europe at 104 feet and three inches. With 11 screens, it is a popular sports-watching destination. During the World Cup, the bar will show all matches live, offering "big games, big screens, and even bigger atmosphere." While bookable space is limited, fans can still enjoy the action by arriving early. The Horseshoe Bar encourages fans to "grab your mates and get ready for a summer of goals, drama, and unforgettable moments."

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3. The Ivy Lodge, Aberdeen

The Ivy Lodge is an award-winning bar in Shiprow Village, Aberdeen, featuring a spacious bar and a large heated outdoor beer garden that seats up to 300 visitors. Starting June 14, every Scotland match will be shown live on large TV screens, with tickets available online. The venue offers match-day drinks offers, pre-match music, and an "electric fan-zone atmosphere," encouraging fans to wear Scotland colours. VisitAberdeenshire promises "full match-day atmosphere, drinks deals, music, and fans from across the city."

4. Platform 8, Inverness

Platform 8 in Inverness, just steps from the train station, offers traditional pub plates, cocktails, and draft beer in a family-friendly setting. With seven TV screens, including an 86-inch screen, it is an ideal spot to watch the World Cup. The venue offers a free drink to anyone who books a table for the first match on June 11. The menu includes hearty pub classics and a half-time burger. Platform 8 promises "a great atmosphere, big screens, cold pints, and a warm Scottish welcome."

5. The Camperdown Elm, Dundee

The Camperdown Elm is a traditional pub in Dundee with a spacious pub garden and plenty of indoor seating. It will show Scotland matches live, along with other major fixtures. The pub offers a family-friendly environment and a menu featuring family favourites, handheld options, and special limited-edition World Cup burgers: the Hat-Trick and the Vindaloo. The venue promises a relaxed setting for everyone, with World Cup events and pre-match build-up adding extra fun around the big games.

These five pubs offer the perfect setting to cheer on the Tartan Army and enjoy the World Cup with fellow fans. Whether you prefer a rooftop terrace, a historic bar, or a family-friendly garden, there is a venue for every supporter. Let us know where you plan to watch the action!

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