Catch The Action: Where to watch the Rugby World Cup 2023 in Cardiff

Friday 6 October 2023

It’s that time again, where our national sport unites the nation, with one of the most anticipated sporting competitions. So, whether you’re a die-hard rugby fan or just looking to enjoy a night out with friends, there are plenty of pubs and bars in Cardiff city centre to watch the Rugby World Cup matches and soak up the atmosphere.

The Best Sport Bars

TEMPLE BAR

A firm favourite with locals, Temple Bar is based on the iconic Dublin public house, with large screens, barrel tables and booths for bigger groups, is a great place to watch the rugby in atmospheric setting. Book your table in advance online.

RUGBY FANZONE MARQUEE

Cardiff Rugby are hosting their own fanzone at the Arms Park for the Quarter Final matches on Saturday 14th October where Wales take on Argentina, while Ireland face up against New Zealand. With a meal and 2 pints included for £20, this is a great value way to be part of the action surrounded by fellow rugby revellers. Booking is essential.

THE PHILHARMONIC

One of Cardiff’s biggest venues is showing all the Wales games on large screens across different floors, so join in the action and pre-book your space to watch at the Philly.

PROUD MARY

With its grand opening last year, the party bar Proud Mary have opened up in the heart of the Welsh capital, after building a solid party reputation across Scandinavia. Watch the game here and soak up the atmosphere.

BREWHOUSE 

Across the road from the Philharmonic, you can catch all the world cup matches at the Brewhouse, this large and lively pub is a perfect place to watch the game with other fans.

THE PONTCANNA INN 

A short stroll from the city centre, the Pontcanna Inn promises great food, plentiful drinks, and a great spot to watch all the best action of the World Cup.

DEPOT

Cardiff’s self-proclaimed, most original venue is showing all the Wales matches, be part of the atmosphere when their iconic warehouse location broadcasts the games. Pre-booking is essential.

THE BOTANIST

Celebrate in style, this might be one of the most unique venues to watch the games, but you’ll be in good company with a vibrant atmosphere, enjoy a range of beers and cocktails while you fuel up with rotisserie and BBQ influenced dishes.

O’NEILLS & LITTLE O’NEILLS

Cardiff’s resident Irish bar on Saint Mary Street has built up a reputation as a place to watch live sports and generally have a great time with friends. Also, worth a visit is the Little O’Neill’s, which is at home on Trinity Street.

COYOTE UGLY

One of the most recognisable bar brands in the world have found a home on Cardiff’s Saint Mary Street. Coyote Ugly definitely know how to put on a show. Pre-book your table to watch the game on the biggest screen in Cardiff and get a bottle of prosecco on the house.

THE OLD ARCADE

A friendly local in the city centre that’s full of atmosphere, so don your jersey and join your fellow Welsh rugby comrades at this passionate and patriotic public house.

QUEENS VAULTS

A traditional, well-maintained and welcoming pub, sitting a stones through away from the Principality Stadium. It’s built up a reputation as a place to be before, during and after a sports match, helped by its wide selection of beers, ales and spirits, alongside reasonably price pub meals.

DUKE OF WELLINGTON

The red brick watering hole is placed proudly in the heart of the city centre, the Duke invites you to soak up the rugby atmosphere with a refreshing Welsh ale while you cheer on the team.

ELEVENS

Identifying as Cardiff’s ultimate sports bar, its passion comes from owner and football legend Gareth Bale, creating a haven for fans of all sports. This high tech sports bar promises a great experience to watch the Welsh rugby games in 4K with surround sound that aims for a stadium atmosphere.

THE DOCK

Escape the city because its time for a day down the Bay, and where else to watch the match than in the Dock. Showing the games live with commentary, on large screens with a selection of beers, snacks and a beautiful backdrop.

GLASSWORKS

This city centre watering hole, just a stones throw from the Principality, with large screens showing the games, is another great place to catch the match.

WALKABOUT

Be part of a Welsh fan takeover of this bold, Aussie-themed sports bar. With cold pints, juicy burgers, and large television screens throughout, pre-book to be part of the atmosphere.

OWAIN GLYNDWR

One of the larger pubs in the city centre, Owain is showing the matches on large screens across the venue.

YATES

At the centre of Greyfriars Road, Yates is proudly showing all the games on their fifteen 4K televisions and four large projectors, so you won’t miss a moment of the action.

Don’t Be Daff’

Make sure you get the chance to pick up a souvenir daffodil hat, a Welsh toy sheep, or even a toy dragon to ensure Wales has a roaring victory. You can also pick up a scarf to commemorate the game and get your face painted for the occasion.

For Welsh rugby shirts and souvenirs, there are a number of shops to have a browse in, including the official WRU Store on Westgate Street.

Now you know some of the best sporting pubs and bars across the city, where are you heading? Don’t forget to tag us in your matchday pics, we’re @visitcardiff #visitcardiff