THE weekend is nearly upon us - and if you are a football fan, there are few better times in the year.

Euro 2020 begins this evening, and Wales first game is on Saturday at 2pm against Switzerland.

England start their campaign on Sunday at 2pm against Croatia.

Pubs like The Turf and Saith Seren in Wrexham are already booked up for Wales' opening fixture.

And in Flintshire, the Red Lion in Penyffordd is booked up for both Wales and England's games this weekend.

Site manager at the Red Lion Steve Saxon said Euro 2020 had come at a good time for many pubs now they are able to welcome customers both inside and out.

However, if you are searching for the best places to watch the Euros in Wrexham and Flintshire, then you have come to the wrong place.

This is a guide for people who want to get out to the pub this weekend, now lockdown measures have eased, but who want to avoid the football.

Carl Beecham, general manager at the Frisky Pudding in Wrexham town centre, said: ""There should be a space for people to just sit back and relax, and not have to have the football on. It's a complete escape from that - it's just nice food and atmosphere.

"We want to offer a safe place where people can come and enjoy themselves.

"We have live music seven nights a week between the two restaurants - the Frisky Pudding and Belushimo. We also have the courtyard out back with private booths, heating, and a private bar. There are quite a few choices for people.

"It's been stop start for us during covid, but we can see the end and people starting to brave the world again. It's been nice to see people getting back out there."

Assistant manager Mark Robinson said that the Glasfryn in Mold did not have televisions but he expected the pub to be busy over the weekend as it had been since pubs were able to reopen.

1. Frisky Pudding, Wrexham

Located in the beautifully restored and sophisticated former Barclays Bank on Wrexham’s High Street, Frisky Pudding has live music performances seven days a week. With an outside courtyard and the Belushimo Italian restaurant, Frisky Pudding is the perfect alternative to the football.

2. Glasfryn, Mold

The Glasfryn is a busy pub restaurant that draws people from far and wide, With fine food and drink, good company, and studding views of North Wales scenery from the terrace you won't even know there is a football tournament going on.

3. Trotting Mare, Overton-on-Dee

Uniquely placed on the border of Wales and England, you would think the Trotting Mare would relish both nations being in a football tournament. But for chef and owner Paul Slater the goal he wants to score is serving great food and atmosphere at the recently expanded restaurant. Be warned, there will be a television on showing the games for those wanting to keep an eye on the scores.

Do you have a favourite pub you'll be visiting this weekend? Let us know about it.