Optimise your World Cup experience
Get ready for World Cup action - from high-definition TV to where to get cheap England kits.
On 11 June the month-long tournament begins to see who will claim the most coveted prize in football.
JP Morgan crunched the numbers and has tipped England for glory in South Africa. Goldman Sachs, using their own method, put their money on Brazil.
Regardless of who you are supporting, the World Cup is the greatest show on earth – so make sure you are prepared.
Games in HD
As the anticipation for the World Cup intensifies, be sure to maximise your viewing experience.
According to Digitalchoices.co.uk, HD enquiries have risen sharply in the lead-up to kick-off as consumers prepare for the World Cup. Customers who are unsure of what is required for optimum service should check their postcode as a number of HD services are area-dependent.
Are you in the market for a TV upgrade? If you plan on watching the on-field heroics in the best possible way, you have the option to choose from a number of High Definition packages.
At £249 each, the 1TB Sky+ HD boxes can store up to 240 hours of HD recordings, which is ideal for the matches scheduled at12:30pm and 3pm. Sky will broadcast through the BBC HD and ITV HD channels.
Virgin Media, Freeview, Freesat, and Sky will provide World Cup match coverage through BBC HD and ITV HD.
It is after all, the closest you are going to get to the pitch in this World Cup.
England kit
Whether you’re making the trip to South Africa or watching the games on HD you’ll need to be equipped with the latest England Kit, lest anyone think you’re cheering for another country.
If you are shopping online you can get a 15 per cent discount on all purchases at the official England Online Store when using your Official England Mastercard.
JJB Sports is offering free printing on home and away shirts when you order online.
Where to watch
If you want a change from the crowded pub, the Everyman Hampstead and Screen on the Green are showing some of the group games as well as the final. Enjoy lunch and a cold beer while watching the games on the big screen. It may be a good idea to book in advance as space is limited. Take a look at their Beer and Food package for £12.
The Sports Café in Haymarket is another option, although you will most likely find enormous crowds in front of the giant screens. Jetlag in Fitzrovia is a slightly more upscale choice with a screening lounge equipped with a high definition projector and surround sound that puts you in the heart of the action.
If you live in the Midlands you can watch the opening game on a giant screen in Kettering’s Market Square.
For those who prefer the atmosphere of a cozy pub, check the schedule of games and secure a spot at your local to watch the game with fellow supporters.
If you are not sure who is showing the games check out sportspubs.co.uk to see where you can watch them.
Of course, there is always the option to invite a few friends round, get some drinks and have a BBQ.
**This material is for information purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. We strongly encourage our readers not to rely solely on this content, but to seek independent advice when making financial decisions.**
