Walkabout - Manchester

You're walking into controlled pandemonium at Walkabout—the kind of place where every surface has a screen showing sport, and the energy ramps up about ten minutes before kick-off. It's housed in The Printworks, that converted Victorian print factory on Withy Grove that's become Manchester's go-to for drinking and dining, which means you've got decent transport links and plenty of other spots nearby if you want to bar hop. The vibe is unapologetically laddish and fun: Australian-themed décor, tiki torches, happy crowds who actually know their way around a rugby ball or football pitch. Staff are quick, the beer selection is solid, and they do proper pub food that won't embarrass you. It's not fancy or quiet—this is where you come when you want atmosphere that matches the occasion.