England are in the semi-finals of the World Cup for the first time since 1990, thanks largely to three world-class saves from ex North-Ender Jordan Pickford.

Pickford’s man of the match display helped the Three Lions over the line in Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Sweden.

There’s been much speculation since as to whether it’s coming home. Like much of the country, Preston seems to think it is.

We’ll find out if Gareth Southgate’s men can take the next step in the semi-final against Croatia on Wednesday (11 July) at 7pm, and below are some of the best places in Preston to catch the action.

You can also view our previous suggestions from the Sweden match.

Baffito’s at the Waterfront

With surround sound and seven large HD screens, you should be immersed in the action at Baffito’s.

Drinks promotions will be on offer, including buckets of four bottled beers for £10. As well as the usual Italian menu of pizzas, pastas, steaks and burgers, Baffito’s are bringing out the big guns with new special bar food, including hot chicken wings, BBQ ribs, and pulled pork and cheese-topped fries. Let’s just hope England bring out the big guns too!

New Continental

A massive 16 foot cinema screen is up in the Conti’s air-conditioned event space for the match. Around 120 people watched England beat Sweden in there on Saturday. There’s also a TV in the snug if you prefer a more intimate setting.

You can go a cut above the usual football burger and dine from the Conti’s spring/summer menu, which includes delights such as roasted cod loin. They’ll even suggest what drink will go best with your meal from their large wine and beer selection.

Read more: Plug and Taps bar opens in Preston city centre – we went to visit

The Plungington Hotel

We’ve heard that some people aren’t bothered about watching England’s historic and momentous semi-final appearance.

If you should know any such individuals, the Plungy could be a good shout for all of you to have a drink on Wednesday. They can stay inside, where there are no screens, while you head outside to the “World Hut”. There’s a screen and seating for 40 people out there, with some standing room around the edges. The food menu is on from 5pm, and there’s table service while England are playing.

Winedown

If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em! Previously a football-free zone, Winedown has changed tack to embrace England’s success, albeit in quite a chilled and sophisticated manner.

As well as the game being on, there will be a mini football quiz at half-time with free cheesy nachos (topped with local English cheese of course) and vegan nibbles. When the match is finished there will be a slightly shorter version of the normal bi-monthly quiz. It seems there will be only one question to be answered at that point: “Is it coming home?”

Read more: A new England World Cup song performed by Penwortham teachers

Yates

The self-proclaimed number one party venue in Preston has been going all out for England’s World Cup matches and the semi-final is no different.

You can reserve a booth with a minimum spend of £80 that can be put to pre-bookable packages and/or a bar tab. The sports party package gets you two pints of Carlsberg or Strongbow and your choice of a cheese and bacon beefburger, veggie burger or chicken burger. And if you don’t think a normal-sized beer will be enough for the celebrations/commiserations, you can also book a beer tower.

Is it coming home? Let us know in the comments below.