Where to take... a rugby fan

The Rugby World Cup can work up a thirst in anyone - and what better way to enjoy a match than to pop down the pub? We hunt down some of the best boozers to head for to get some match practice.

The Larrik **, 2 Crouch Hill, N4 (020-7272 5395).

Alcohol and food at the crack of dawn as all eyes will be on England v Australia as the action unfolds - and some of them will be very bleary. This North London sporty pub has two large screens and will be opening early for the duration, with a full licence and cooked breakfasts.

The St Margarets Tavern ***, 107 St Margarets Road, Twickenham, Middx (020-8892 2369).

Fine beers in a fine setting Even though the action is taking place at the other side of the world, people still like to be near the spiritual home of rugby in Twickenham. The devilishly handsome St Margarets Tavern will be the place for an early-morning libation and a spot of breakfast. Four plasma screens have been installed for the duration of the tournament and the place will open early for all the home nations' games.

Cask ales include Bombardier and Deuchars IPA, and bottled delights include the Belgian classics such as Mort Subite, Brugs and Judas.

The Sports Cafe **, 80 Haymarket, SW1 (020-7839 8300).

24/7 rugby and drinking Now here's a result we've all been waiting for. The Sports Cafe has been granted a 24-hour licence for the duration of the World Cup, meaning that you can eat and drink whilewatching the games at even the most unsavoury hours of the day. Corporate bookings are already being taken, so hurry.

The Walkabout **, Temple Pier, Embankment, WC2 (020-7395 3690).

A huge five-metre TV screen This might be London's biggest sports bar, and it's certainly a rowdy one. Although it has an antipodean focus, they will also be opening early in the morning for all the Brit games. Breakfast and a full licence will be offered. The Walkabout has a giant five-metre screen. Other Walkabouts in London will be offering a similar deal. Go to www.walkaboutinns.com for your nearest location.

The Fulham Tup **, 268 Fulham Road, SW10 (020-7352 1859).

Rugby a la Francaise The French community of South Kensington and Chelsea has taken over this exuberant sports bar and claimed it as its own. The bar will open early for all the home games, and matches involving France will be shown with a French commentary.