The Freemasons Arms, in Covent Garden, claims a unique place in soccer history – that it was here in 1863 that the Football Association was founded.  This claim is debatible as some sources claim the Football Association was founded in the Freemasons Tavern - where now the Grand Connaught Rooms (a conference centre) is located - at 61-65 Great Queen Street.  Also nearby is Freemasons Hall - possibly connected in some way - also on Great Queen Street.  The current pub, the Freemasons Arms, is close to the location of the old Tavern, but it is located at 81-82 Long Acre.   Whether here or there, the Freemasons Arms lays claim to being the site where a series of meetings led to the formation of Football Association rules and the split from rugby football rules in 1863.  In the downstairs bar, the pub boasts a fine array of soccer memorabilia - perhaps after a few drinks the exact location becomes less significant.  Food is served and, as expected, TVs show most live football matches.

Closest tube: Covent Garden