The Launch of Crossbar: The UK’s First Women’s Sports Bar

Crossbar, the UK’s first dedicated women’s sports bar, opened its doors in early February 2026 in Brighton. Co-owners Lucy and Pippa Tallant conceived the idea after years of discussing the need for a female-centric space that supports women’s sports. Lucy, who has a background in coaching women’s football, noted a recurring issue where fans often struggle to find venues that adequately showcase women’s sports. This frustration, particularly highlighted during the 2025 European Championship, prompted them to take action.

The Guardian

The couple discovered an empty bar on Upper North Street, which they felt had the potential to become their vision. Pippa described the venue's features, such as deep green tiles and hardwood floors, as having the right "bones" for their concept. Despite Pippa's initial hesitance—she was not a regular football viewer—the pair recognized the importance of creating an inviting atmosphere for fans of all genders.

The Guardian

Crossbar aims to be a safe space for anyone interested in sports, with a particular focus on women’s sports. The bar will not exclusively show women’s events; however, it prioritizes them in its programming. The tagline, “The best place to watch women’s sport, and the best place for women to watch sport,” encapsulates this mission. The venue has already secured a late license to screen major events, including the Super Bowl and the upcoming World Cup.

The Guardian

The opening night of Crossbar was met with enthusiasm, selling out tickets within four minutes. Patrons expressed excitement about having a dedicated space for women’s sports. One visitor, Popsy Greader-Palme, emphasized the importance of a supportive environment for female fans, while another, Serena Ferguson, highlighted the appeal of a more welcoming atmosphere compared to traditional sports bars.

The Guardian

The Tallants financed the bar through personal means, with Pippa using her inheritance from her late mother. She reflected on her mother’s philosophy regarding money, stating, “Don’t sit on it, do something.” This personal investment underscores their commitment to creating a space that resonates with the community.

The Guardian

Lucy and Pippa are acutely aware of the responsibility they hold in catering to a community eager for a space like Crossbar. Lucy expressed a desire for patrons to feel well cared for and that the bar reflects their expectations. The couple's journey is not just about establishing a business but also about fostering a supportive environment for women and sports enthusiasts alike.

The Guardian

• “I’ve been waiting for a place that really focuses and appreciates women’s sport because I’m a huge fan of women’s football,” — Popsy Greader-Palme, Patron

The Guardian

• “I feel like this space is the perfect place for people like me, who want a nicer environment to enjoy the sport instead of going to a shitty bar where there’s a load of lads waiting for the game to be turned over so they can get what they want on.” — Serena Ferguson, Patron

The Guardian

• “We want the community of people that are already excited about the bar to feel well looked after and like it’s how they wanted it to be,” — Lucy Tallant, Co-owner

The Guardian

Crossbar represents a significant step towards inclusivity in sports viewing, aiming to create a vibrant community space for women and sports fans.

The Guardian