Best pubs for football in Manchester

Watching the football out in Manchester is a sport in itself. Between United, City, and the constant rotation of Champions League and international fixtures, almost every pub claims to show the game - but only a handful actually get it right. These are the ones that consistently show the games, turn the sound on, and don't punish you for ordering a second round.

Smithfield Market Tavern on Swan Street is the Northern Quarter benchmark. Multiple screens, sound on for anything kick-off and above, rotating real ales from £4.20, and a crowd that knows when to shout and when to shut up. Get there 30 minutes before a derby or you're not getting a seat.

For a cheaper pint with the football still on the big screen, The Piccadilly on Piccadilly Approach is hard to beat. Wetherspoons pricing (around £3.50 a pint), at least four screens, and reliable Sky and TNT coverage. The downside is the volume - sound is rarely on, but the goals will be audible from the cheer next door.

If you want the matchday pub experience without the city-centre crush, The Bay Horse Tavern on Thomas Street shows most Premier League fixtures with sound, has a proper jukebox between games, and pours a £4.50 cask pint. The Castle Hotel further up Oldham Street is the same vibe - fewer screens, but a real pub feel rather than a sports bar.

Avoid: any chain sports bar on Deansgate during a derby (£7 pints, queues 20-deep at the bar), and any 'gastropub' advertising the game as an event - you'll be paying restaurant prices for a Carling. Stick to traditional boozers near Shudehill, the NQ, or Oxford Road and you'll have a much better afternoon.