Matchday in Liverpool always begins long before you reach your seat in the Kop. The streets around Anfield fill slowly with colour, pub doors swing open to familiar chants, and the smell of fresh pies drifts from Walton Breck Road. For first-time visitors, the build-up can feel both exciting and slightly overwhelming. You want the right pub, you want decent food, and you do not want to spend half your day wandering between streets that look the same. 

That is why knowing exactly where to go before a Liverpool FC match makes a huge difference. With Celtic Horizon Tours handling your match ticket, hotel and travel from Ireland, you are free to focus on the only thing that matters. Enjoying Liverpool. The city is familiar, friendly and full of places where Irish supporters settle in before kick off. This guide shows you where those places are so you can walk into your first Anfield matchday with confidence. 

What Are the Best Pubs Near Anfield for a Pre- Match Drink? 

If you want pubs that are genuinely used by Liverpool fans, close enough to walk, and reliable for atmosphere without trouble, these are the places to know. All three are within a ten to fifteen-minute walk from the stadium and allow home colours. 

The Sandon 

This is one of the busiest pre-match pubs and a historic Liverpool FC venue. It is large, loud and known for early singing. Good for groups who want atmosphere and do not mind crowds. 

The Park Pub 

Opposite the Kop on Walton Breck Road. Ideal if you want to be in the middle of everything. It fills up fast, so early arrival helps if you want space. 

The Arkles 

A popular spot with travelling fans because it is slightly calmer while still being lively. It is one of the rare pubs that offers a mix of fans in a respectful, controlled way. Good for pints and pre-match chat. 

Where Do Irish Fans Usually Gather Before an Anfield Match? 

Many Irish supporters prefer pubs with a mix of locals and visiting fans. These spots feel welcoming and usually have space to sit or stand without being packed shoulder to shoulder. 

The Flat Iron 

A favourite of many Irish supporters because it is calm enough to enjoy a pint but close enough to walk to Anfield without rushing. 

Taggy’s Bar (near the stadium) 

Friendly, familiar and known for a pre-match buzz without being chaotic. Good for groups and families. 

If you prefer the city centre rather than the stadium area, Mathew Street is always busy on matchdays. However, it is better for an early afternoon build-up rather than the final hour before kick-off. 

Where to Eat Before a Liverpool Match? 

Most visitors choose quick, reliable food so they do not miss the warm-up or early atmosphere. These options are close, consistent and suitable for families or groups. 

Homebaked Anfield 

The community bakery is beside the stadium, and is good for pies, sandwiches and quick service. Ideal if you want to be at your seat early. 

Georgie Porgy Cafe 

Traditional English breakfast and simple hot meals. A good option for day travellers who arrive early from Ireland or North Wales. 

Food trucks on Walton Breck Road 

They serve burgers, chips and matchday favourites. The queues look long but move quickly. Perfect for a fast option before heading through the turnstiles. 

How Early Should You Arrive at Anfield? 

Visitors underestimate the pre-match congestion around Anfield. For weekend fixtures, the best approach is: 

• Arrive in the area two hours before kick off so you have time for food or a drink. 

• Enter the stadium at least forty-five minutes before kick-off to avoid long queues at the turnstiles. 

• Plan your route back because buses and taxis become very busy for at least forty minutes after the final whistle. 

Most first-time visitors think they will have more time than they actually do. Build in a buffer, and you will enjoy the afternoon more. 

Is It Safe to Wear Colours Near Anfield? 

Yes, if you are in the home supporters section and staying near the stadium. Wear your Liverpool scarf or shirt with confidence. Avoid rival colours in the home end, especially United or Everton shirts. If your match package seats you in the home section, keep to neutral colours if you support another team. 

Where Can You Join the Singing Before Kick Off? 

The Sandon and The Park are usually the loudest in the hour before kick-off. Around thirty minutes before the match, the singing shifts toward the stadium as fans start entering the Kop. If you want to hear the build-up, stand on Walton Breck Road between the Kop and The Park. The atmosphere builds naturally as groups move through the streets. 

Family Friendly Pre-Match Options 

If you are travelling with kids, keep the build-up simple and avoid the busiest pubs. These locations work well. 

• Homebaked for food 

• The Flat Iron for a calmer drink 

• Club shop and fan zone for pre-match excitement 

The family zone around the Kop often has live music or matchday activities. 

Why Irish Fans Feel So at Home in Liverpool? 

Liverpool has long-standing Irish roots. Many supporters travel from Dublin, Cork, Galway and Belfast for weekend fixtures. Pubs, staff and stewards are used to welcoming visiting Irish fans, and the atmosphere reflects that familiarity. The city centre and stadium area both feel friendly and easy to navigate, which makes the whole trip comfortable even for first-time visitors. 

Celtic Horizon Tours has been bringing Irish supporters to Liverpool for years. Match tickets, hotel accommodation and travel are handled, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the city. 

After the Final Whistle: Where to Go Post Match? 

If you want to continue the evening after leaving Anfield, choose from these practical options. 

City Centre:

Best for music, bars and late food.

Baltic Market 

Ideal for groups and families. Large space, independent food stalls and great atmosphere. 

Albert Dock 

Good for calmer drinks and a scenic walk, especially in the evening. 

Trains and buses get extremely busy for at least half an hour after the match. If you are heading back to the hotel, give yourself some time. 

Finally,

A Liverpool matchday is more enjoyable when you know exactly where to go and when. Choose pubs and food spots that match the atmosphere you want, arrive early to avoid queues and plan your return route before the game. Celtic Horizon Tours ensures that tickets, travel and accommodation are taken care of, which gives you the freedom to enjoy Liverpool like a local supporter. With the right plan, you can make the most of every hour leading up to kick off.