Watching your favourite football team play away from home doesn't just have to mean going to the match. Why not make a whole day of it and celebrate an away win or drown your sorrows with some great post-match entertainment?
It could be a trip to the theatre, going to the local pubs and nightclubs or perhaps a trip to the local casino. Let's take a look at what is on offer in some of the top cities in the UK?
A trip to the Etihad usually sees a few Erling Haaland goals scored. That's good news if you're a home fan living elsewhere but not such a happy time for supporters of the away side. But your trip to Manchester can be a lot more than just watching a football match. There's so much to do in the city when the sporting action is over.
Manchester is famous for its nightlife, from nightclubs and theatres to restaurants and casinos. Combine a delicious meal with a casino trip where, if you know your poker hand strengths, you might win cash to pay for your food!
The city of Manchester has several casinos that you can visit. For example, there's the Genting and Grosvenor Casinos where you can have a great time. It's not just about enjoying the casino games that are on offer. There's excellent food to enjoy, and you can watch some more live sport in the bar to ensure you have a great night out.
A trip to the Northern Quarter of the city is definitely recommended. It's packed with pubs and bars, especially Stevenson Square. The area has a European feel to it after being pedestrianised two years ago.
Then there's Deansgate, perfect for a post-match meal with restaurants aplenty. If you fancy a posh night out, then head for Spinningfields. A great view of the city can be seen if you pay a visit to 20 Stories. It's not about telling tales but a venue that is 20 stories high, allowing you to see the best that Manchester offers, including the canals.
A trip to Stamford Bridge or any other of the top London clubs can definitely just be a part of a big day out in the capital. It's almost a question of just where to start your night out with so much on offer.
How about a trip to the West End to enjoy one of the many excellent shows that are on? There's everything from 'Wicked' to 'Mamma Mia' and a last-minute reduced price ticket could be purchased if you're lucky. If your team loses, though, it's probably best not to go and see 'Les Miserables.'
Sightseeing is an excellent way to spend your time in London, with so much to see. There's so much to see, and if you get tired, there's certainly no shortage of pubs or restaurants you can visit.
You could have a night out at the cinema or perhaps visit Covent Garden. It has plenty of entertainment on show with everything from magicians to musicians. There's never really a dull moment in London, though fans of Chelsea might disagree with that comment.
Recent years have seen the Seagulls establish themselves in the Premier League. A trip to the seaside can be entertaining even during the winter months.
There will be a bit of travelling, though, once your visit to Brighton and Hove's Amex Stadium is over. The ground is situated in Falmer, a fair distance from the city centre and the seafront. Transport in the city is good, however, so it won't eat into too much of your post-match entertainment time.
The city centre is full of restaurants of all kinds and some excellent pubs to visit. Then there's the seafront with the famous Brighton Palace Pier to spend some time on. Whether it's time in the amusement arcade, their end-of-pier fair or tucking into some Fish and Chips, you'll have a brilliant time. Probably best to start here and then head for the pubs and clubs.
Taking my son to his first football match was one of the best experiences I've had as a father so far. I've written this article for Alex to read when he gets older.
My daughter's first ever football match - Orlando City v Atlanta United, August 2019. Written for Izzy to read when she gets old enough. Vamos Orlando
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