The 2023 Rugby World Cup has seen some thrilling, frustrating and foul play in the group stages, resulting in an exciting quarter-final lineup.

Lucky for the rugby fans among us, Oakham brags a range of top local sports bars where you can catch the games.

The Rugby World Cup is a men's rugby union tournament contested every four years between the top international teams.

The tournament is administered by World Rugby, the sport's international governing body. The winners are awarded the Webb Ellis Cup, named after William Webb Ellis who, according to a popular legend, invented rugby by picking up the ball during a football game.

England last won the tournament in 2003, when Jonny Wilkinson kicked England to victory against Australia.

A number of Leicester Tigers players were selected for the world cup. Image credit: Nub News.

First up in the semi-finals, Argentina will face New Zealand at 8pm on Friday 20 October.

This follows what was, for some viewers, a surprise defeat by Argentina of Wales in their quarter-final game last weekend, in which the score was 17 - 24 to Argentina.

Next up, on Saturday 21 October, South Africa will come up against England at 8pm.

The winner of each of these games, which is predicted to be South Africa and New Zealand, will come fact to face in the Rugby World Cup final in Paris on Saturday 28 October.

Who do you think will be heading through to the grand final and lifting the trophy?

You can watch the upcoming games with a cold beer, Guinness or soft drink at The Crown Tavern, Crown Walk, Oakham, LE15 8BZ. Call Lindsay on 07769 680641 to book a table. 

Alternatively, Bill's Bar on Oakham High Street, who are offering two beers for £7 during all Six Nations matches, and The Grainstore by Oakham Station, Station Approach also shows games.

Ovation on Gaol Street will also be showing the games all weekend.

Finally, The Fox and Hounds in Knossington will also be showing the matches. Call 01664 452129 to book a table, especially if you want to indulge in some seasonal food from their varied menu.

Enjoy a nice cold pint with the game at The Fox and Hounds in Knossington. Image credit: Nub News.

Alternatively, head to our What's On page to find out about other family-friendly events going on this weekend.

If you have any local sports fixtures to tell us about, or news to share from your local, grassroots team, get in touch by emailing [email protected].

We look forward to hearing from you.