A Guide to Sky Sports for Pubs UK
5th of February 2025
5 minute readRunning a pub in the UK? Whether you’re a seasoned pub owner or just starting out, offering Sky Sports is a great way to attract customers. We’re here to guide you on how to set up, maintain, and optimise Sky Sports for your pub, so you can make the most of this popular service.
Sky Sports for pubs UK is an essential service for attracting sports fans. To set it up, you’ll need the correct commercial subscription, appropriate TV setups, and must comply with licensing rules. This guide walks you through everything you need to know.
Keep reading to discover how you can set up Sky Sports in your pub, manage subscriptions, and provide an exciting experience for your customers. We’ll also cover the benefits, pricing options, and additional tips to make your pub the go-to spot for sports fans.
Bring the best live sports to your pub. Click below to learn how Sky Sports can attract more customers and keep them coming back.
What is Sky Sports for Pubs UK?
Sky Sports for pubs is a special commercial subscription designed for hospitality venues like bars, pubs, and clubs. It allows you to show live sporting events from a wide range of sports including football, rugby, tennis, cricket, and more. With the right equipment and subscription, you can provide a premium viewing experience for your customers.
Sky Sports has been one of the leading sports broadcasters in the UK for decades. Their coverage includes high-profile leagues like the Premier League, F1, and international events such as the Rugby World Cup. For pubs, this means an opportunity to bring in a steady stream of customers, especially during peak sports seasons.
What’s Included in Sky Sports for Pubs?
When you sign up for Sky Sports for pubs, you gain access to a comprehensive package of live sports. This includes football matches from the Premier League, EFL, and international fixtures, along with other popular sports like tennis, golf, cricket, and rugby. Here’s a breakdown of the key features:
- Premier League Football: Watch all the key matches of the UK’s most popular football league.
- International Sports: Includes coverage of top international events like the World Cup, Euros, and major rugby and cricket tournaments.
- Formula 1 and Golf: Show major sporting events that appeal to a wide range of sports enthusiasts.
- Flexibility: Different subscription packages cater to your pub’s size and the sports your customers prefer.
How to Set Up Sky Sports for Pubs in the UK
Setting up Sky Sports for your pub is straightforward if you follow the necessary steps. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to do:
- Commercial Subscription: First and foremost, you’ll need to subscribe to Sky’s commercial service. Sky offers a variety of packages tailored to the needs of different sized venues. Prices vary depending on your pub’s location, size, and what content you wish to offer. You’ll need to contact Sky’s commercial sales team to discuss the best options for your pub.
- Equipment Setup: Once you’ve got the subscription in place, it’s time to set up the equipment. You’ll need a Sky box and a satellite dish installed. The installation process typically requires a professional to ensure everything is connected properly. Additionally, you’ll need TVs or projectors that are capable of showing Sky Sports in high-definition, so make sure your pub is well equipped for a premium viewing experience.
- Licence to Show Sports: You must ensure your pub has the proper public viewing licence. This is necessary to legally broadcast Sky Sports to your customers. The Public Performance Licence (PPL) is required to cover the broadcasting of live sports in public spaces. You can usually obtain this from PPL or PRS for Music.
- Plan Your Sports Schedule: Once everything is set up, planning your schedule is the next crucial step. If you have a customer base that loves football, for example, you can focus on showing major football matches. However, you might also want to rotate in different sports to cater to a broader audience. Sky’s interactive sports guide makes it easy to see upcoming events and plan accordingly.
Sky Sports Subscription Plans and Pricing for Pubs
Sky offers a range of commercial subscription packages tailored to the needs of pubs and other hospitality venues. These packages vary in terms of content, equipment, and pricing. Below is an overview of the typical plans available:
- Sky Sports Essential Package: This package includes access to the core Sky Sports channels, covering major sports like football, cricket, and golf. It’s ideal for venues looking to offer a broad range of sports content without extensive additional features. Pricing starts at approximately £200 per month.
- Sky Sports Premium Package: For pubs seeking a more comprehensive sports offering, this package includes all Sky Sports channels, plus additional features such as enhanced coverage of specific sports and events. Pricing begins around £300 per month.
- Sky Sports Plus Package: This package offers an expanded selection of sports content, including exclusive events and additional channels. It’s designed for venues aiming to provide an extensive sports viewing experience. Pricing starts at approximately £400 per month.
Please note that pricing for Sky Sports for pubs can vary based on location, size, and additional services, such as equipment and extra channels. The prices listed above are approximate and can change, so it’s always a good idea to contact Sky’s commercial team to get an accurate quote tailored to your pub’s needs. The pricing can also depend on any special events or seasons, so seasonal promotions and packages may also affect the cost.
The Benefits of Having Sky Sports for Your Pub
Investing in Sky Sports for your pub can significantly increase foot traffic and customer loyalty. Here’s how it benefits your business:
- Attracts Sports Fans: Offering Sky Sports ensures that sports fans will choose your pub to watch their favourite teams or athletes. Major sporting events often draw crowds, and your pub could become the go-to location for these events.
- Increase Sales: With Sky Sports, your customers are more likely to stay longer and spend more on drinks and food. The excitement of live sports encourages people to gather with friends, increasing your overall sales.
- Promotes Customer Loyalty: Regularly showing live sports events helps build a dedicated customer base. Fans often return to watch their team play, and if they associate your pub with great sports coverage, they’ll keep coming back.
- Seasonal Sports Events: Major sporting events like the World Cup, Wimbledon, or the Grand National can bring a boost to your business. Offering these events helps keep your pub in high demand.
Do You Need Extra Equipment for Sky Sports in Your Pub?
While the basic setup includes a Sky box and TV, some pubs may choose to invest in additional equipment to enhance the viewing experience:
- Large Screens: For big crowds, consider installing large screens or even projectors to provide the best viewing experience for your customers.
- Sound Systems: Invest in a good sound system to ensure that customers can hear commentary clearly, even when there’s a lot of background noise.
- Multiple Screens: Many pubs choose to have multiple screens to show different sports simultaneously. This can help cater to a variety of sports fans, from football enthusiasts to those who prefer rugby or tennis.
Want to get started with Sky Sports for your pub today? Click the link below to find out more about subscription options, pricing, and equipment packages that will best suit your needs.
FAQ
Can I show Sky Sports in my pub without a commercial subscription?
No, you need a commercial subscription to legally show Sky Sports in your pub. A regular Sky subscription for personal use does not cover public broadcasting.
How much does Sky Sports for pubs cost?
The cost of Sky Sports for pubs depends on several factors including your pub’s size and the type of package you choose. It’s best to get in touch with Sky’s commercial team for an accurate quote.
Can I show Sky Sports in a small pub?
Yes! Sky offers various packages to suit different pub sizes, so even smaller venues can take advantage of this service.
Do I need a special licence to show sports in my pub?
Yes, you will need a Public Performance Licence to show Sky Sports in your pub. This can be obtained through PPL or PRS for Music.
What if my pub isn’t equipped with the right TV setup?
If your pub doesn’t have the necessary TV equipment, you can easily upgrade your system by purchasing larger screens or projectors to enhance the viewing experience.