Hotels for Nations Championship: England v Japan

Fixtures against Japan bring a different rhythm to autumn rugby, with the visitors' offloading game and pace at the breakdown testing a home side more used to European power sets. A November Saturday afternoon kick-off means fans gather early, with pubs and green spaces around the ground filling up well before the teams emerge.

Expect a full house in good voice, especially if the forecast stays dry, and a match that tends to open up more than the average northern hemisphere contest.

The home of English rugby, Twickenham is the sport's largest dedicated stadium and the thunderous backdrop to internationals and, in summer, major concerts. Its leafy southwest London setting is all Victorian streets, riverside pubs and the genteel calm of Richmond nearby. Mainline trains from Waterloo run to Twickenham station, a short walk from the ground, though matchdays bring famously heavy crowds. Booking a room locally lets you enjoy a proper pre-match pint and stroll back without battling for a rammed train.