Merlin's Sports Bar
Great Yarmouth's premier sports bar with seafront views, competitive gaming, and live sporting action.
A lively sports bar located on Great Yarmouth's seafront, Merlin's offers an energetic atmosphere for watching live football, Formula One, and cricket. The venue features an extensive selection of pool and snooker tables, a conservatory with beach views, and affordable drinks. With friendly staff and a welcoming environment, it's a popular gathering spot for both locals and holidaymakers seeking competitive gaming and sporting entertainment.
A brief summary to Merlin’s Sports Bar
- 38 Apsley Rd, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2HB, GB
- +441493856150
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-12 am
- Tuesday 10 am-12 am
- Wednesday 10 am-12 am
- Thursday 10 am-12 am
- Friday 10 am-12 am
- Saturday 10 am-12 am
- Sunday 10 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during major football matches or Formula One races for the most energetic atmosphere, but arrive early to secure good seating near the screens.
- Ask staff about upcoming pool competitions and league play if you're interested in competitive gaming; regular tournaments run throughout the year.
- The conservatory offers a quieter vantage point with beach views—ideal if you want to watch sports without the main bar's intensity.
- Consider lifetime membership if you're a regular visitor; the application process is straightforward and available at the bar.
- Drinks prices are notably more affordable than many comparable venues in the area, making it excellent value for extended visits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Merlin’s Sports Bar location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Merlin’s Sports Bar
A Seafront Sports Haven
Merlin's Sports Bar sits prominently above the amusements of Great Yarmouth's bustling seafront, offering visitors and locals alike a vibrant escape dedicated to sport and entertainment. Positioned at 38 Apsley Road, the venue commands an excellent location within easy reach of the beach and the town's main attractions. The bar's elevated position provides a unique vantage point over the seafront, making it a distinctive landmark in the area.Gaming and Competition Culture
The heart of Merlin's lies in its extensive gaming facilities. The venue boasts numerous pool and snooker tables, establishing itself as a hub for competitive play throughout the year. The bar operates multiple pool and darts teams, alongside a dedicated snooker team, with a trophy cabinet displaying years of competitive success. Regular pool competitions are held throughout the year, attracting players of varying skill levels. For those interested in joining the competitive scene, staff can provide information about upcoming tournaments and league play.Premier Sporting Events
Merlin's has earned its reputation as a premier destination for watching live sports. The venue broadcasts major football matches, with a particularly strong focus on EFL Championship and League One fixtures. Formula One racing features prominently during the championship season, with staff available to confirm race dates and times. Cricket enthusiasts can enjoy England's international matches, including Test series and one-day competitions. The atmosphere during matches is notably energetic, with the cosy pub setting and quality beer selection enhancing the viewing experience.The Conservatory Experience
A standout feature is the conservatory area, which overlooks the beach and seafront. This space provides a more relaxed setting while maintaining views of the sporting action, offering visitors a choice between the main bar's vibrant energy and a slightly quieter environment. The conservatory's beach-facing windows create a distinctive ambiance that combines indoor comfort with coastal scenery.Membership and Community
Merlin's welcomes both casual visitors and long-term members. Lifetime membership is available for over-18s, with a straightforward application process at the bar. Holidaymakers can opt for seasonal membership, and many return visitors have transitioned to lifetime status over the years. Younger family members are welcome when fully supervised. Manager Paul Hogg and his team actively encourage visitors to explore the facilities and experience the atmosphere before committing to membership, fostering a genuine sense of community within the venue.Atmosphere and Service
The venue is consistently described as welcoming and cosy, with staff known for their friendly and attentive service. The combination of affordable pricing, quality drinks selection, and engaging entertainment creates an environment where regulars and visitors alike feel at home. The bar's commitment to maintaining a positive atmosphere has made it a reliable destination for those seeking both competitive gaming and social sporting enjoyment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
Anchor Gardens
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Joyland
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Lord Choo Choo Land Train's Ltd (Britannia Pier - Haven, Seashore Holiday Park)
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A charming miniature train ride on Great Yarmouth’s historic Britannia Pier, perfect for family fun and seaside nostalgia.
Hippodrome Circus
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St George's Park
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Britannia Pier
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The South East Tower
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Great Yarmouth Row Houses
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Essential places to dine
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Gilfreds Restaurant
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Strollers Restaurant
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Alexandra Restaurant
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HMS Hinchinbrook great Yarmouth
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The Courtyard Italian Restaurante
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Quayside Plaza
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Dead Good Shop
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Barkers
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The Smugglers Cove
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Life's A Beach
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Vogue
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Cottage Jewels
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Merlin’s Sports Bar
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Great Yarmouth's premier sports bar with seafront views, competitive gaming, and live sporting action.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
