Upstairs at the Prince Of Wales has been transformed into a female-friendly pub © Benefit UK 2014

Punters will be able to get a makeover from Benefit make-up artist, just like Samantha Barks did at the launch
© Benefit UK 2014

World Cup fever has officially hit London. Although we’re nearly 6,000 miles away from the action in Brazil, plenty of pubs and other venues are getting in on the action with screenings. Although it’s been a long time since football was just considered a game for men only, sometimes the viewing experience of the World Cup can be a bit… let’s say ‘uncouth’ for a finer breed of lady.

This is where Gabbi’s Head fills the void. The team behind cosmetics brand Benefit have opened a pop-up pub in the heart of London’s West End where women can enjoy the beautiful game in a pretty environment. Football fans and Benefit lovers will be able to watch the matches, while sipping beers or special cocktails. Benefit make-up artists will also be on hand to provide makeovers, including complimentary brow waxes, skin care sessions, tanning and make-uppers. Over the next few weeks, aside from all major World Cup screenings, there will also be wine tasting, bingo, comedy nights, poker and film screenings.

I was lucky enough to be invited to the press preview night of Gabbi’s Head this week and had a fabulous night. The venue looked like a fusion of members’ club-meets-traditional boozer, with celebrity guests Kirsty Gallacher, Diana Vickers, Samantha Barks and Matt Richardson, among others in attendance. With a mix of pink stools and plush sofas, there was plenty of seating to rest your derriere, or a pink table football game if you’re in a playful mood. Watching Brazil beat Croatia in the opening game of the tournament while sipping on cocktails such as the Rasp-Bene Mojito or Bene-Berry Bellini and nibbling on yummy canapés was a different from the usual football watching experience I’ve had. I’ll definitely be back for some football fun in the next few weeks.

• Gabbi’s Head, is open from 13 June- 13 July 2014. Located on the 1st floor above the Prince of Wales, 150-151 Drury Lane, Covent Garden, WC2B 5TD. Nearest tube: Covent Garden or Holborn. Free entry. For more information, visit the Benefit UK Facebook page.

Pull up a stool and order one of the special cocktails… or just a regular beer © Benefit UK 2014

For a guide to open-air World Cup and Wimbledon screenings in London this summer, click here.

For a guide to what else is on in London this month, click here.

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