The usual government licensing extension does not cover Scotland’s group games, leaving supporters dependent on venues with special permission or existing late-night licences.
Reports say Club 360 in Tottenham will host Scotland fans for all three matches, with a licence running until 06:00, night Tube connections and a menu featuring Irn-Bru cocktails, Tennent’s, pizzas, pies and morning rolls. Tickets are already selling quickly.
The late starts are also changing the atmosphere. Rather than one central gathering point, fans will be spread across London, with venues adapting their schedules for a travelling support base that will be watching Steve Clarke’s side from the capital.
Several venues are offering different versions of the tournament experience:
Woodins Shades in Bishopsgate is also screening a broad selection of World Cup fixtures, offering another option for supporters in the City.
The spread of venues gives Scotland fans choice, but the late kick-offs will test transport, licensing and crowd management. Night Tube access could make Tottenham particularly attractive, while central venues may appeal to mixed groups of supporters.
The next major date is Scotland’s meeting with Brazil on 24 June. By then, London’s pubs will have their screens, kitchens and licences ready for one of the city’s most distinctive World Cup nights.