The Best Cosy Board Game Pubs & Bars in London Perfect for Rainy Days & Nights

Board game bars in London are a welcome respite from the city’s notoriously dreary weather at different times of the year! Whether you’re looking to challenge friends to shuffleboard, darts, pool or classic board games, these venues offer the perfect blend of competition and socialising.

London is absolutely awash with fantastic games pubs in London, each with its own unique charm and offerings. While traditional pubs remain popular, these activity-focused establishments have revolutionised how Londoners enjoy their leisure time for nearly a decade. In fact, some venues boast truly impressive collections – Draughts, for instance, stocks more than 800 games, while Ludoquist offers a staggering 1,400 different options for just £7 per person.

We’ve scoured the city to find the cosiest, most entertaining board game pubs perfect for those inevitable rainy days and nights. From Shoreditch’s London Shuffle Club (the only UK venue with both lane and table shuffle under one roof) to Finsbury Square Garden where you can enjoy outdoor boules alongside platters and burgers, our guide covers the best spots to show off your skills while enjoying craft beers and good company.

Prince of Peckham

Unwind every Monday at the Prince of Peckham with Monday night games.

Mondays don’t have to be miserable… and they’re not – not at Prince of Peckham.

Come hang out, play some games, and ease into the week with fun vibes only.

We’ve got board games, table tennis, and a proper throwback setup with a Nintendo 64… perfect for a bit of friendly chaos.

Grab a drink, bring your mates (or make some new ones!!!), and let’s make Mondays fun again.

Draughts Board Game Café

Nestled beneath Waterloo Station in the famous Leake Street graffiti tunnel, Draughts has transformed an old railway arch into a haven for board game enthusiasts since its inception almost a decade ago. With a second location in Dalston’s Hackney, this pioneering board game café offers so much more than your typical games pub in London.

Draughts Board Game Café game selection

What truly sets Draughts apart from other board game bars in London is its astonishing collection of games. Both locations house an extensive library of over 1,000 unique titles, making it one of the largest board game collections available for public use in the capital. The selection caters to every type of player—whether you’re a casual gamer looking for familiar classics or a hardcore strategist seeking complex challenges.

The games are meticulously categorized, with an online catalogue sorted into niche categories such as ‘American Revolutionary War’, ‘Space Exploration’, and ‘Zombies’. You can even filter by number of players, which proves incredibly useful when planning your visit. Feeling overwhelmed by the options? The knowledgeable staff, or ‘game gurus’ as they’re affectionately known, are always on hand to recommend the perfect game based on your group size, experience level, and preferences.

For first-timers, I recommend trying games like Love Letters (an easy-to-pick-up game about wooing a princess), Codenames (a word-identifying challenge), or even Pandemic (the game that actually inspired Draughts’ founders to start the business). Additionally, Draughts maintains their games in excellent condition despite heavy use—a testament to their commitment to providing quality experiences.

Draughts Board Game Café food and drink

After intense gaming sessions, refuelling becomes essential. Fortunately, Draughts offers a delectable menu of elevated comfort food with global influences. Their food options range from giant nachos and pulled pork to Korean fried chicken and Buffalo cauliflower. Specifically, many visitors praise their halloumi fries, burgers, Baja fish tacos, and even their unique ice cream nachos.

What’s particularly noteworthy is their inclusivity regarding dietary requirements. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or require gluten-free options, Draughts has thoughtfully crafted menu items to accommodate everyone. They serve food from their menu until 10pm seven days a week.

As for drinks, Draughts lives up to its clever name with an impressive selection of draught beers, IPAs, and ciders. Furthermore, their wine list combines old and new world options, and they offer ever-changing cocktails. Particularly popular are their signature cocktails, including the cult favourite Caramel Popcorn Milk Happy HI-Ball and an excellent non-alcoholic margarita. The bar also serves Ozone coffee, Good and Proper Tea, and maintains a substantial low and no-alcohol selection.

Draughts Board Game Café pricing

Gaming at Draughts operates on a straightforward pay-to-play model. The admission fee grants you access to their entire game library for up to three hours. Prices start at £7.25 during off-peak hours, while peak admission costs £9.50 per person. Moreover, Draughts offers family-friendly pricing—children under 12 play for free, and teens aged 13-17 enjoy half-price admission.

For larger groups of 15 or more, Draughts provides several package options:

Players Bundle: £40 per person including food (choice of 2 bites & 2 bowls), dessert, and drinks (2 beers or half a bottle of house wine)
Victors Spoils: £65 per person including expanded food options (3 bites & 2 bowls), dessert, and more drinks (4 beers or a full bottle of house wine)
Power Play: £80 per person with the most comprehensive offering (3 bites & 3 bowls), dessert, and the same drink allowance as Victors Spoils

These packages require pre-payment of the gaming admission (or hire fee) and minimum spend, along with any additional pre-ordered items. For private events, minimum spend guarantees ensure your area remains exclusive to your group.

Draughts Board Game Café vibe

Upon entering Draughts, you’re immediately enveloped in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The Waterloo location spans two floors, while the Hackney venue features seven interconnecting rooms in a listed building—complete with surprises around every corner, from their massive board game collection to a cosy lounge, dive bar, full-size shuffleboard table, and spacious outdoor beer garden.

The tables are specially designed for board gaming, with clever storage spaces underneath for keeping cards hidden or temporarily stowing away food during crucial gaming moments. Despite the competitive nature of board games, the ambience remains friendly and inclusive—perfect for everything from nervous first dates to family outings.

Visitors consistently praise the staff for their friendliness, knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm for games. As one customer noted, “The team were so knowledgeable about the games and genuinely cared that you were getting on okay and enjoying yourself. Such a fantastic and different date night idea!”

Perhaps most importantly, Draughts achieves its founding mission of bringing people together through play. By creating spaces where people can connect in person and switch off from screens, it offers a refreshing antidote to our digital-heavy lives. The venues draw a diverse crowd, from avid gamers to complete newcomers, making them vibrant hubs of social interaction regardless of gaming experience.

Bad Moon Cafe

For over six years, Bad Moon Cafe has been fostering London’s tabletop gaming community from its home in Borough. Located at 159A Great Dover Street, just a 10-minute walk from London Bridge and Elephant & Castle stations, this venue stands out among games pubs in London with its specialised focus on role-playing adventures.

Bad Moon Cafe RPG and D&D focus

Unlike many board game bars London offers, Bad Moon Cafe primarily caters to role-playing game enthusiasts. Although they maintain a library of over 150 traditional board games, their true claim to fame lies in their extraordinary RPG and Warhammer facilities. The venue boasts 15 custom gaming tables, each an impressive 6 feet long and featuring specially built thematic terrain designed to bring role-playing adventures vividly to life.

First-time visitors should keep an eye out for their “Learn to Play Dungeons & Dragons” events, which offer an excellent entry point into the world of RPGs. Beyond D&D, Bad Moon runs weekly meetups for most tabletop games, supporting various systems including Warhammer and Magic the Gathering.

What makes this venue particularly appealing is how they’ve created a dedicated space for both casual and serious RPG players. Their custom tables provide ample room for miniatures, character sheets, and dice collections – essentially everything needed for an immersive gaming session. Even if you’re unfamiliar with RPGs, the friendly staff can recommend appropriate games based on your interests.

Bad Moon Cafe drinks and snacks

Though their gaming facilities take centre stage, Bad Moon Cafe certainly doesn’t neglect refreshments. Their food offerings focus on convenient, tasty options that won’t interrupt your gaming adventures. The menu features sandwiches, pizza from nearby Basilico, and various snacks. Vegetarians and vegans needn’t worry – plant-based options abound, including clearly labelled vegan pizzas, chocolates, and snacks.

The drink selection deserves special mention. Coffee and tea (with oat milk available) provide caffeine boosts for afternoon gaming sessions, whilst craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate their local brews. Perhaps most intriguing is their selection of mead – reportedly the oldest form of alcohol, according to staff who are happy to share their knowledge.

What stands out about their refreshment approach is how it complements rather than distracts from gaming. As one visitor noted, “I really enjoy the cheap and good quality drinks on offer”, highlighting that value hasn’t been sacrificed for convenience.

Bad Moon Cafe pricing

Bad Moon keeps their pricing straightforward and affordable, especially considering London standards. Table reservations cost £5 per adult, with all tables requiring pre-booking for gaming. This fee grants access to their extensive facilities, making it reasonable value compared to other entertainment options in the capital.

The drinks prices remain “reasonable” according to visitor reviews, and food options maintain good quality without breaking the bank. This pricing structure reflects their mission statement of creating “an inviting, comfortable and enjoyable experience for tabletop gamers”, prioritising accessibility over profit maximisation.

For corporate events or team-building sessions, the venue offers customised packages, though specific pricing for these services varies based on group size and requirements. Consequently, larger groups should contact them directly for quotes.

Bad Moon Cafe atmosphere

Perhaps the most frequently praised aspect of Bad Moon Cafe is its welcoming atmosphere. Unlike the often dark, cramped spaces stereotypically associated with gaming venues, Bad Moon offers a “light, airy and spacious” environment. Multiple reviews mention excellent lighting, good heating in winter, and fans for summer comfort.

The venue successfully balances being a serious gaming space with maintaining a relaxed, inclusive vibe. One visitor commented, “I would definitely return for the friendly and relaxed vibe”, whilst another noted that despite being in London for three years, this was “the place that started to make me feel at home”.

The community aspect remains central to their identity. Regular events foster connections between gamers, and the staff contribute significantly to the welcoming atmosphere. Furthermore, the diverse clientele ranges from dedicated Warhammer enthusiasts to casual visitors “sharing good laughs and wine over a game of Carcassone”.

One important note: the venue maintains an 18+ policy for unaccompanied minors. A group of 17-year-olds reported being refused entry when arriving without an adult, so families should plan accordingly.

Overall, Bad Moon Cafe has established itself as a vital hub in London’s gaming landscape, catering particularly well to RPG enthusiasts whilst remaining accessible to board game novices. Their combination of specialised gaming facilities, reasonable pricing, and genuinely welcoming atmosphere explains why they’ve built such a loyal following among tabletop gamers throughout London.

Player’s Social

Located in the heart of Elephant & Castle, Player’s Social has quickly established itself as one of the premier board game bars London has to offer since opening in 2021. This vibrant gaming venue occupies a spacious 7,500 square foot area spanning two floors, creating an impressive playground for both casual and serious gamers alike.

Player’s Social board games and activities

What immediately distinguishes Player’s Social from other games pubs in London is its extraordinary variety of gaming options. The venue houses over 500 board games, carefully curated to suit different skill levels and interests. From timeless classics like Monopoly and Scrabble to modern strategy games such as Catan and Ticket to Ride, their collection caters to every taste.

Beyond traditional board games, Player’s Social offers an array of interactive experiences that set it apart. The venue features state-of-the-art shuffleboard tables, providing a refreshing alternative when you need a break from seated games. Additionally, they host several gaming pods equipped with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles, perfect for digital gaming enthusiasts.

What I find particularly impressive is their dedicated RPG room, designed specifically for Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. With atmospheric lighting and specially designed tables, this space creates an immersive environment for role-playing adventures. Furthermore, Player’s Social regularly organises tournaments and themed gaming nights, including their popular monthly “Novice Night” where beginners can learn new games in a supportive setting.

Most noteworthy is their unique approach to game selection—each table includes a QR code linking to their digital catalogue, allowing you to browse games by duration, player count, and difficulty level. Once you’ve made your choice, simply press the call button, and a knowledgeable “Game Guru” brings your selection directly to your table, often including a quick rules explanation.

Player’s Social food and drink options

The culinary offerings at Player’s Social complement their gaming focus perfectly. Instead of traditional pub fare, they’ve developed a menu centred around shareable plates that can be easily enjoyed whilst gaming. Their signature “Game Night Platters” feature combinations of nachos, sliders, wings, and vegetable crudités designed to minimise greasy fingers touching precious game components.

In terms of main dishes, Player’s Social serves stone-baked pizzas with imaginatively named gaming-themed toppings like “The Monopoly” (loaded with properties—or rather, a variety of meats) and “The Catan” (featuring ingredients representing the game’s resources). Vegetarian and vegan options abound, including their popular “Plant-Based Player” menu section.

The drink selection deserves special mention, with their signature cocktails drawing particular praise. Each named after famous games, options include the “Scrabble Scramble” (a word-jumbling gin concoction), “Jenga Tower” (a dramatically layered cocktail), and “Checkmate” (their potent chess-inspired bourbon blend). For non-drinkers, their “Power-Up Mocktails” provide equally creative alternatives.

Beer enthusiasts will appreciate their rotating selection of craft options, featuring local London breweries alongside international favourites. Meanwhile, their coffee bar serves excellent specialty brews throughout the day, making Player’s Social as suitable for afternoon gaming sessions as evening gatherings.

Player’s Social pricing and offers

Player’s Social operates on a straightforward pricing model designed to balance accessibility with maintaining their extensive facilities. Their standard gaming fee is £6 per person for a two-hour session during weekdays, rising to £8 during peak weekend times. This fee provides unlimited access to their board game library, with extended sessions available at a reduced hourly rate.

Regular visitors should consider their “Player’s Pass” membership scheme, which costs £49 annually and offers significant benefits:

Waived gaming fees Sunday through Thursday
Half-price gaming fees on Fridays and Saturdays
10% discount on all food and drink
Priority booking for special events
Free entry to monthly members-only tournaments

Students receive a 20% discount on gaming fees with valid ID, whilst family sessions (Sunday mornings) offer special pricing with children under 10 playing free when accompanied by paying adults. Additionally, their “Happy Hour Gaming” runs Tuesday through Thursday from 4-6pm, featuring both discounted drinks and reduced gaming fees.

For private events, Player’s Social offers several package options, including their popular “Tournament Package” which includes dedicated Game Gurus to organise competitive play for your group. Corporate team-building events have become a significant part of their business, with bespoke packages tailored to group size and objectives.

Player’s Social stands out amongst London’s gaming venues through its combination of extensive game selection, thoughtfully designed food and drink options, and strategic pricing structure. Whether you’re seeking a rainy day refuge or planning a competitive night out with friends, this Elephant & Castle gem delivers a gaming experience that balances casual accessibility with depth for dedicated players.

Loading Bar

As one of London’s pioneering board game venues, Loading Bar has been welcoming gamers through its doors since 2010. With no entry fee required, this established haunt offers a refreshingly accessible approach to gaming entertainment, setting it apart from many other board game bars London boasts.

Loading Bar game variety

The gaming collection at Loading Bar impressively spans both digital and analogue worlds. Upstairs, board games and card games are stacked from floor to ceiling, giving players abundant options regardless of their gaming preferences. The venue thoughtfully stocks multiple copies of popular games—typically three or four of each title—ensuring you’re rarely left waiting to play your preferred choice, even during busier periods.

Beyond traditional board games, Loading Bar truly excels with its digital offerings. The downstairs area houses modern consoles including Xbox One X, PS4, and Nintendo Switch. Retro gaming enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either, with N64 consoles available for nostalgic gaming sessions.

What truly distinguishes this venue from other games pubs in London is its impressive arcade section. The “classic arcade den” features authentic cabinets including Jurassic Park Safari, Judge Dredd Pinball, Point Blank 2, and 18 Wheeler. Furthermore, these arcade games are available to play completely free of charge while you purchase drinks—a rarity in London’s gaming scene.

The venue’s gaming infrastructure spans two separate bars, each with a 100+ capacity, ensuring ample space for various gaming styles. Additionally, a table football setup provides yet another gaming option for those seeking something different.

Loading Bar drinks and cocktails

Perhaps most notable about Loading Bar is its imaginative approach to beverages. The bar has developed an entire menu of game-themed cocktails that demonstrate both creativity and genuine gaming knowledge. Among their standout offerings is the “Alien: Inebriation,” uniquely served with a Kinder egg nestled in a shot glass.

Other signature concoctions include the “G&T Virus,” inspired by Resident Evil and dramatically served with syringes. This creation came about after Capcom directly approached the bar about creating a themed drink for their franchise—a testament to Loading Bar’s reputation within the gaming industry. Similarly, the “Elderflower Scrolls Skyyrum” pays homage to the endlessly re-released Skyrim, whilst the “Pokémon Sloe” cleverly reimagines the classic Bramble cocktail with berry sweets as a nod to Pokémon Go’s gameplay mechanics.

Underneath these creative presentations lies genuine mixology expertise. The cocktails aren’t merely novelties but well-crafted drinks balancing flavours appropriately. As one reviewer noted, they had “an awesome cocktail” while visiting. The bar additionally serves a good range of beers alongside their signature creations.

Their drinks menu extends beyond alcohol, however, with coffee and non-alcoholic options available throughout operating hours. This thoughtful approach ensures the venue remains accessible to non-drinkers without compromising on flavour or presentation.

Loading Bar ambiance and crowd

The atmosphere at Loading Bar strikes that perfect balance between energetic and relaxed—ideal for rainy London days. Visitors consistently describe the venue as having a “chill atmosphere” that appeals to adult gamers primarily, though welcomes all gaming enthusiasts. The space feels designed specifically for socialising through gaming, encouraging interaction between friends and occasionally strangers united by common interests.

Unlike venues that feel exclusionary to gaming novices, Loading Bar creates a welcoming environment regardless of your gaming experience. As one patron observed, the bar “brings gamers out of their room and helps them socialise with their friends while playing games and having a pint of beer”—precisely what a good games pub should achieve.

The staff contribute significantly to this welcoming atmosphere, being described as attentive and friendly. Their gaming knowledge proves particularly valuable when recommending titles from the extensive collection. The crowd typically includes a mix of dedicated gamers, couples on dates, and casual visitors simply seeking an alternative pub experience.

Opening hours extend from 6pm until 2am, making Loading Bar perfectly suited for evening gaming sessions. Notably, the venue occasionally hosts special events including karaoke nights, Beyblade tournaments, and wrestling watch parties, adding variety to their offerings beyond everyday gaming.

Their pricing structure remains straightforward—there’s no charge for your first hour when purchasing drinks, after which it’s merely £2 per person per hour to access their extensive gaming library. This approach ensures the venue remains accessible whilst maintaining their impressive collection of games and equipment.

The Crown and Two Chairmen

Tucked away in the bustling heart of Soho, The Crown and Two Chairmen offers a refreshingly traditional approach to board gaming compared to other board game bars London houses. This handsomely restored Georgian-style pub combines classic British hospitality with gaming entertainment, creating an ideal hideaway when rain patters against its windows.

The Crown and Two Chairmen board game selection

Unlike dedicated gaming cafés with extensive libraries, The Crown and Two Chairmen takes a more casual approach to board games. Their collection focuses on beloved classics that perfectly complement a lazy Sunday afternoon. Visitors can enjoy familiar favourites including the Logo Board Game, Scrabble, and Monopoly, typically brought out alongside their popular Sunday roasts.

What makes gaming here distinctive is the relaxed, pressure-free environment. Typically, games appear on Sundays when the pub transforms into a cosy retreat where visitors linger over home-cooked meals and friendly competition. This traditional pub creates an atmosphere where games feel like a natural extension of socialisation, straightaway transporting you back to comfortable family game nights rather than structured gaming sessions.

The Crown and Two Chairmen food and drink

The culinary offerings at this establishment firmly embrace traditional British pub hospitality. Their menu features hearty classics executed with care:

Weekday deals at £13 include deep-fried whitebait and mac ‘n’ cheese
Their popular Sunday roasts (£12.50 for chicken) come with Yorkshire puddings
Additional options range from pork and chorizo burgers to cider and tarragon-battered hake

Drink selections prove equally impressive, with Meantime and Camden beers headlining a substantial lineup of quality draught brews. Guest ales rotate regularly, whilst their wine selection caters thoughtfully to the mid-market metropolitan crowd. Presently, cocktail enthusiasts find themselves well-served by a skilled bar team capable of crafting both classic and contemporary creations.

Admittedly, drinks come at standard “London prices,” nevertheless the food remains reasonably priced, offering good value within central London. Their Sunday roast at £12.50 represents a particularly good deal considering the generous portion sizes noted by regular patrons.

The Crown and Two Chairmen cosy pub vibe

The atmosphere here epitomises what makes traditional British pubs enduringly appealing. Recently refurbished yet retaining character, the space balances contemporary touches with historical elements. Downstairs, tattered red leather banquettes and red-beaded lampshades create a distinctly intimate ambiance, subsequently enhanced by low lighting perfect for those seeking respite from Soho’s frenetic pace.

Incidentally, the quirky décor includes amusing touches like signs stating “Beer tastes better in a plastic glass” for outdoor drinkers. Bar stools positioned strategically at windows allow solo visitors to observe central Soho’s vibrant street life, whilst couples gravitate toward the darker, quieter areas at the back.

The clientele typically consists of a fascinating mix of “slumming-it business types and self-consciously bohemian media workers,” creating a buzzing yet comfortable environment. Evidently, the pub excels at maintaining an “effortless, comfortable cachet” without feeling pretentious.

On Mondays, the pub hosts a popular quiz night beginning at 7pm, offering another reason to visit beyond their gaming options. This combination of traditional pub elements with gaming opportunities makes The Crown and Two Chairmen a distinctly different proposition from other games pubs in London – less focused on gaming variety, hitherto more concerned with creating a warm, authentic British pub experience where board games enhance rather than dominate the social atmosphere.

Four Quarters

The UK’s original arcade bar, Four Quarters has established itself as a gaming institution across London since opening its first venue on Peckham’s Rye Lane in June 2014. Unlike traditional board game bars, Four Quarters offers a unique blend of retro arcade machines and console gaming that transports visitors back to the golden age of video games.

Four Quarters retro arcade and board games

Four Quarters stands out among games pubs in London with its impressive collection of lovingly restored arcade cabinets. Their Hackney Wick location boasts 20 beautifully maintained original arcade machines, offering everything from Space Invaders and vintage Pacman to Street Fighter and Time Crisis. Meanwhile, the Peckham venue features 15 original cabinets ranging from 70’s classics to 2000’s favourites.

Beyond the arcade machines, Four Quarters elevates the gaming experience with dedicated console booths. These popular spaces allow groups to battle it out on vintage systems including Super Nintendo, Sega Dreamcast, Nintendo 64, PlayStation 2, and GameCube. At the Peckham location, you’ll even find an upstairs space with 10 retro consoles available for booking.

What makes Four Quarters particularly special is their commitment to authentic gaming experiences. All games run on genuine American quarters, purchased at the bar, adding to the nostalgic feel. Furthermore, they encourage social gaming the old-school way – no headsets or online play, just friends competing side-by-side on the same screen.

Four Quarters drinks and food menu

Four Quarters pairs gaming with an impressive selection of drinks and food options. Their bars feature an enviable range of craft beers from various breweries, including local offerings from Jubel and Hackney Brewery. Additionally, their cocktail menu includes both classics and creative house specials with gaming-inspired names like “Rainbow Road” and “Yoshi Sour” at their Hackney Wick location.

For those seeking food alongside their gaming session, Four Quarters offers different options depending on the venue. The Hackney Wick location serves pizza (including vegan options), whereas the Elephant Park venue offers burgers and hot dogs. Accordingly, this makes Four Quarters an ideal spot for an entire evening of entertainment without needing to venture elsewhere.

House doubles are available all day, every day for £8 at their Peckham location, plus they offer various drink promotions including student discounts and cocktail deals daily, plus 5 shots for £15 at Hackney Wick.

Four Quarters pricing and group size

The gaming experience at Four Quarters operates on a simple token system. All arcade machines run on US Quarters which can be purchased at the bar for £1.50 for 4 quarters or £5 for 15 quarters. Alternatively, you can buy them for £2.50 for 4 or £10 for 18 quarters. Most standard games require just 1 quarter per play, though light gun games, driving simulators, and pinball machines typically need 2 quarters per credit.

The popular console booths can be booked for exclusive use, perfect for small groups or parties. During peak hours (Thursday through Saturday), these booths cost £9 per hour with a 5-person minimum, whereas they’re available for £6 per hour at all other times with a 4-person minimum during weekdays. Tables can be booked for free subject to availability.

For larger gatherings, Four Quarters offers private hire options with varying minimum spends depending on the venue, day, and time. At Hackney Wick, whole venue hire ranges from £2,500 minimum spend on Mondays to £10,000 on Saturdays. They also provide various party packages:

Package	Price Per Person	What’s Included
Value	£11	8 quarters + 2 beers per person
Standard	£18	8 quarters + 3 drinks per person
Premium	£33	12 quarters + 4 premium drinks + prosecco on arrival
VIP	£44	Unlimited quarters + 4 premium drinks + prosecco cocktail on arrival

For families, Four Quarters welcomes under-18s before 7pm if accompanied by a responsible adult, though they note they’re not suitable for birthday parties for children under 7 years old.

Four Quarters nostalgic vibe

The atmosphere at Four Quarters perfectly captures the nostalgic joy of arcade gaming. Visitors consistently praise the venue for its unique combination of retro games and quality drinks that creates an unmistakable vibe. One TripAdvisor reviewer described their experience as “spending the whole evening in the Four Quarters in Elephant. Really nice beer, great atmosphere, lots of friendly people out enjoying the nostalgia!”

Their canal-side Hackney Wick location offers a sun-drenched beer garden, ideal for summer afternoons, whereas the Peckham venue has established itself as one of South London’s best music venues with regular DJ sets in their basement bar on weekends.

The staff receive frequent mentions in customer reviews, with one visitor noting, “Super friendly staff! Such good fun, great place to come as a couple or with friends. Good drinks and food, we had a mint time”. Another highlighted, “The staff are so friendly particularly calling out Eli whose customer service was amazing. Pizza and games were top notch”.

What truly sets Four Quarters apart from other board game bars in London is its commitment to authentic gaming experiences. Rather than focusing solely on modern board games, they’ve recreated the classic arcade scene while pairing it with quality food and drink options. This unique approach has earned them recognition from Time Out, which awarded their Hackney Wick location 4 out of 5 stars and crowned it ‘Bar of the Week’.

D20 Board Game Bar

With passionate gaming communities at its heart, D20 Board Game Bar offers a welcoming haven for tabletop enthusiasts in both Watford and Uxbridge. Established by gaming enthusiasts Michelle, Mario and Page in 2017, this cosy establishment has quickly become a cherished destination for both casual and competitive players alike.

D20 Board Game Bar game nights and tournaments

D20 prides itself on hosting diverse regular gaming events that cater to various interests and skill levels. On alternating Wednesdays, their Lorcana leagues run at both locations, featuring drafts and constructed tournament events with official prizes and promotional items. For Pokémon enthusiasts, the Watford branch hosts monthly gatherings on the last Thursday, plus Wednesday events at Uxbridge, complete with a recently established Pokémon league.

Marvel Champions players can join the small yet dedicated community at Uxbridge most Mondays, making it an excellent entry point for those new to card games thanks to its cooperative, beginner-friendly nature. Beyond these, D20 regularly hosts Yu-Gi-Oh tournaments and Dungeons & Dragons sessions that welcome newcomers to the classic role-playing game.

For those seeking more unique gaming experiences, D20 offers Blood on the Clocktower – an intriguing bluffing game for 5-20 players divided into teams of Good and Evil, with participants trying to identify and eliminate demons before being outnumbered. These sessions happen monthly at each café, providing a refreshing alternative to traditional board games.

Perhaps most impressive about D20’s gaming culture is how they’ve created a community beyond just playing games. As one reviewer noted, “D20 has a really relaxing atmosphere and my partner and I felt very at home there. It was really nice to see that pronouns were respected, LGBTQ+ people were welcomed and the local community had pulled together”.

D20 Board Game Bar drinks and slushies

The beverage selection at D20 offers something for everyone, from teetotalers to those seeking stronger refreshment. Their drinks menu boasts an array of options including wines, beers, coffees, and their much-praised slushies. Their milkshakes deserve special mention, with options like the “Shake it (Bisc) Off deluxe shake” receiving particular acclaim – even available with add-ons like Fireball Cinnamon Whisky for those wanting an adult twist.

On the food front, D20 punches above its weight despite operating from a modest kitchen space. “With such a small kitchen this place does amazing and food never takes long to appear,” noted one satisfied customer. The menu features casual comfort food including burgers (the vegan “Clucks of Quedlinburger” chicken burger being a highlight), quesadillas, chilli, salads, and falafel. Their homemade cakes have also earned a stellar reputation.

Notably, D20’s Uxbridge location is fully vegan, offering clearly labelled plant-based dishes alongside dairy-free milkshake options. This commitment to inclusive dining has garnered praise: “Their food was absolutely delicious, and they seemed to have something for everyone, whether you prefer mock meats or whole foods”.

D20 Board Game Bar pricing and events

D20 operates on a straightforward pricing system for casual gaming:

Gaming Type	Standard Price	Concession Price (children under 12, students, OAPs)
Board games	£2 per person, per hour (4th hour free)	£1 per person, per hour
Own games	£1 per person, per hour	–

For those participating in their league nights, there’s a £5 fee that includes promotional items and prizes. Constructed tournaments range from £10-£15 with participation packs, while drafts cost between £25-£30 depending on the specific event.

What truly sets D20 apart from other board game bars in London is their extensive calendar of social gaming events designed to help players expand their gaming circles. Their Gaming Social events occur every Tuesday at Watford and every Monday at Uxbridge, charged at the concession rate. These gatherings are perfect for solo visitors or small groups looking to meet like-minded players.

D20 has also created some wonderfully inclusive specialised events. Their monthly LGBTQIA+ “Quingle” takes place on the first Thursday at Watford, offering a safe space for gamers to connect. Similarly, their vegan gaming meetup happens every second Saturday of the month at the Uxbridge location. Homeschool families can also enjoy special gatherings every other Monday at Uxbridge.

For frequent visitors, D20 offers a membership programme that provides free access to all their social events, presenting excellent value for regular patrons. Securing a spot is straightforward – “We always recommend booking as it can get quite busy. We will always do our best to accommodate walk-ins. For our events we ask that you always book as spaces are limited”.

D20 welcomes families with some considerations – children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and those under 14 need adult supervision during events. They serve alcohol and operate a “Look 25” policy, yet maintain a welcoming atmosphere with genderless toilets and accommodation for personal assistants, who don’t pay cover charges. Even four-legged friends are welcome – “Well-behaved pooches are welcome!”.

The Den at St Martins Lane

Tucked away in the heart of Covent Garden, The Den at St Martins Lane offers a distinctly upscale twist on the board game bar concept. This oak-panelled snug within the stylish St Martins Lane Hotel combines British elegance with playful touches, creating an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and approachable.

The Den at St Martins Lane board game offerings

Unlike venues focused exclusively on gaming, The Den takes a more casual approach to board games, integrating them as part of a broader sophisticated experience. The venue maintains a thoughtfully curated selection of board games and activities available for guests to enjoy while relaxing in the comfortable leather sofas. This collection makes The Den an excellent choice for a night out with friends looking to socialise over games in a more refined setting.

Backgammon features prominently among their offerings, perfectly matching the elegant surroundings. Moreover, the relaxed atmosphere encourages leisurely gameplay without the pressure of time limits or gaming fees commonly found at dedicated board game cafés. Subsequently, this creates an environment where both casual players and board game enthusiasts can feel equally welcome.

What sets The Den apart from other games pubs in London is how the gaming experience complements rather than dominates the space. Games here serve as conversation starters and social lubricants, fitting seamlessly into the venue’s sophisticated identity rather than defining it entirely.

The Den at St Martins Lane food and drink

The Den’s culinary offerings surpass typical pub fare, with an all-day menu featuring a range of sophisticated options. Among the standout dishes are the Tamarind Octopus and the Classic Club Sandwich, with thoughtful vegan alternatives available for plant-based diners.

Their beverage programme is equally impressive, featuring inventive cocktails inspired by the artwork adorning the walls. Cocktail enthusiasts might appreciate signature drinks like:

The Free Bird – a creative twist on a classic Vesper Martini featuring clarified yellow tomato juice
The Opera Singer – a homage to famed opera singer Miss Mamie combining ten-year-old Glenmorangie, creme de fraise liqueur, rose liqueur, and Earl Grey syrup
The Over and Under – made with Sipsmith Sloe Gin, Fever-Tree Tonic, fresh lime and raspberry

Perhaps most notable is their Modern British Afternoon Tea, which runs daily from 12 pm to 4 pm. This isn’t your standard tea service—each element tells a unique story connected to St Martins Lane, from a Croque Monsieur resembling the hotel’s revolving doors to an elderflower and gold dust tea symbolising the entrance to their hidden speakeasy.

The pricing structure for afternoon tea offers several options:

Afternoon Tea Option	Price
Standard Afternoon Tea	£29.50 per person
With Gin & Tonic	£39.50 per person
With Champagne	£42.00 per person

For evening visitors, The Den transforms into “EllaMia After Dark,” serving delicious bites and cocktails in a space that brings a slice of Los Angeles’ craft coffee culture to London.

The Den at St Martins Lane elegant atmosphere

The moment you enter The Den, you’re embraced by its warm, inviting atmosphere. The space expertly balances classic British elegance with contemporary touches—oak panelling and plush leather sofas create a cosy environment, while the warm lighting sets a relaxed mood perfect for unwinding after exploring the bustling streets of London.

What truly distinguishes the décor are the playful art pieces adorning the walls. These surreal and witty works riff on classic British scenarios, bringing the room to life with a touch of British eccentricity. These artistic elements have earned recognition beyond mere decoration—The Den’s artwork recently won two D&AD awards in Brand Expression and Graphic Design categories.

The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and accessibility. As one reviewer noted, “The lighting is low, the walls are clad in oak panelling and grand paintings hang on the wall. Any pomp is undercut, however, by the slightly skewed paintings and welcoming staff”. This combination of elegance without pretension creates a uniquely comfortable environment.

Essentially, The Den functions as a decompression zone from London’s hectic energy. The space includes access to a private terrace—ideal for summer months—and features comfortable furniture that encourages visitors to linger. Additional amenities include mood lighting, background music, air conditioning, and natural light, all contributing to the venue’s appeal.

The staff consistently receive praise for enhancing the experience, described as “brilliantly funny and friendly” and attentive to guests’ needs. One visitor highlighted how their server Manuel “was very friendly & attentive—he told us about the meaning of each of the items we had for the afternoon tea after showing us around the reception area and even the secret bar”.

Overall, for those seeking board game bars in London with a touch of refinement, The Den offers a distinctive alternative to the more casual gaming venues across the city. Its combination of games, exquisite food and drinks, and sophisticated yet playful atmosphere makes it a perfect rainy-day retreat in central London.

Spit & Sawdust

When the skies turn grey, Spit & Sawdust in Borough becomes a sanctuary for those seeking shelter from London’s notorious rain. This craft beer haven doubles as a gaming retreat, making it an essential stop on any board game enthusiast’s London itinerary.

Spit & Sawdust retro board games

Unlike venues focused primarily on modern board games, Spit & Sawdust offers a nostalgic journey with its treasure trove of retro games. I’ve found this spot ideal for bringing friends to relive youthful gaming memories, especially on those classic rainy London afternoons. Their collection invites casual gaming in a relaxed environment where the focus remains on socialising as much as competition.

What sets Spit & Sawdust apart from other games pubs in London is their authentic shuffleboard – a traditional game that perfectly complements the pub’s unpretentious atmosphere. This classic offering provides a refreshing alternative to the digital and complex tabletop games found elsewhere, inviting even newcomers to join in without intimidation.

The pub wisely maintains an arsenal of board games available for customers, creating an environment where you can easily lose track of time across multiple games and rounds. Their selection caters to varied interests and skill levels, making it suitable for both casual players and those seeking more strategic challenges.

Spit & Sawdust craft beer selection

Beer enthusiasts will find themselves spoilt for choice at Spit & Sawdust. The pub maintains twenty dedicated craft lines that regularly rotate, ensuring return visitors always discover something new. Their commitment to craft beer quality is evident in how they collaborate with leading independent breweries.

“We choose to work with the leading and most innovative independent breweries in the UK, particularly London, to ensure a range like no other pub in the area,” notes their website proudly. This dedication to local brewing talent means you’ll find an impressive selection of beers from breweries practically on their doorstep.

For those preferring wine over beer, Spit & Sawdust offers an affordable wine list – a thoughtful inclusion that ensures everyone in your group finds something to enjoy regardless of beverage preference.

The pub’s approach to drinks mirrors the broader trend I’ve noticed among board game bars in London, where quality beverages enhance rather than merely accompany the gaming experience. With twenty craft beer and cider lines to choose from, it’s virtually impossible to make a disappointing selection.

Spit & Sawdust casual pub setting

The atmosphere at Spit & Sawdust epitomises the cosy, welcoming vibe that makes British pubs perfect refuges from London’s weather. Their tiered beer garden offers a scenic leafy sun trap available for private hire during daytime hours until 10pm, complete with heaters for those cooler evenings.

Regular events keep the calendar lively, including:

The Big Fat Pub Quiz every Tuesday
Live music nights throughout the week
‘Disco Saturdays’ for those seeking weekend entertainment
Live sporting events screened for fans

For groups looking to make an occasion of their visit, Spit & Sawdust offers versatile private hire options. Their unique upstairs space is available for exclusive bookings throughout the week, featuring flexibility in how it’s arranged. You can opt for a fully stocked bar with dedicated bartender service or pre-order your selection to serve yourselves.

The pub demonstrates thoughtful attention to convenience – “We can offer a selection of food and drinks ready for your arrival including growlers of our craftier products from local breweries to save taking the stairs”. This consideration extends to music arrangements as well, allowing groups to play their own selections via personal devices.

Food options complement the drinking and gaming experience, with tasty tacos and Mexican cuisine available to sustain longer gaming sessions. The combination of quality food, exceptional drinks, and engaging entertainment creates an environment where hours pass pleasantly, regardless of the weather outside.

Located at 21 Bartholomew St in SE1, this Borough-based establishment delivers the quintessential board game pub experience – convivial atmosphere, excellent refreshments, and engaging entertainment options, all wrapped in an unpretentious, authentically British pub setting.

Ludoquist!

Boasting one of the largest board game collections in London, Ludoquist! stands as a true paradise for tabletop enthusiasts willing to venture to Croydon. This award-winning board game café has established itself as a destination worth the journey for serious gamers and casual players alike.

Ludoquist! board game collection

The heart of Ludoquist! is undoubtedly its impressive library of over 1,400 games, ranging from simple stacking games for toddlers to complex strategy games with hundreds of pieces. What makes this collection special is its thoughtful organisation—games are arranged from the most accessible options at the front to more complex titles toward the back. For those overwhelmed by choice, friendly “Games Gurus” are available to help select the perfect game based on your preferences and experience level.

Ludoquist! food and drink options

Beyond gaming, Ludoquist! offers a surprisingly robust menu. Their hand-stretched stone-baked pizzas receive consistent praise, with one co-founder proudly claiming they’re “probably the best in Croydon”. Indeed, this quality was formally recognised when the café won a Good Food Award Blue Ribbon in November 2023. The food menu includes paninis and various vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone in your group can find something satisfying.

The drink selection is equally impressive, featuring locally roasted coffee, craft beers, wines, and cocktails. This combination of quality refreshments and extensive gaming options creates an environment where you can comfortably spend hours without feeling rushed.

Ludoquist! pricing and value

Ludoquist! operates on a straightforward pricing model:

Days	Adults	Under 16s
Monday-Sunday	£8	£4

Sessions typically last three hours during busy periods, although there’s no time limit for sessions starting after 6pm until closing time. This pricing structure offers excellent value considering the vast collection available—certainly more economical than purchasing even a fraction of these games for personal use.

Ludoquist! location and accessibility

Located at 63-67 High Street in Croydon (CR0 1QE)[252], Ludoquist! is accessible via multiple transport options. The café sits approximately 284 metres from George Street tram link, 341 metres from Church Street tram link, and 487 metres from Wellesley Road tram link, making it reasonably accessible despite being outside central London.

Their opening hours accommodate both daytime and evening gaming sessions:

Monday-Thursday: 12pm-10pm
Friday: 12pm-11pm
Saturday: 11am-11pm
Sunday: 11am-8pm

The café’s inviting atmosphere has been compared to “Central Perk” from Friends, creating a space where people sometimes visit just to enjoy the ambiance without necessarily playing games. As co-founder Carrie Smith explains, “The idea was to make an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone”, resulting in a venue that avoids the stereotypical “geeky hangout” vibe in favour of something altogether more approachable.

Comparison Table

Venue Name	Location	Game Collection	Entry/Gaming Fee	Notable Features	Food & Drink Highlights	Special Offerings
Draughts Board Game Café	Waterloo & Hackney	Over 1,000 games	£7.25 (off-peak), £9.50 (peak)	Two-floor venue in Waterloo, seven interconnecting rooms in Hackney	Global comfort food, signature cocktails, craft beers	Family pricing (under 12s free), group packages from £40pp
Bad Moon Cafe	Borough (near London Bridge)	150+ board games	£5 per adult	15 custom 6ft gaming tables, specialised RPG/Warhammer facilities	Sandwiches, pizza, craft beers, mead	Weekly RPG meetups, “Learn to Play D&D” events
Player’s Social	Elephant & Castle	500+ board games	£6 (weekday), £8 (weekend) per 2 hours	7,500 sq ft space, gaming pods with PS5/Xbox, dedicated RPG room	Gaming-themed pizzas, sharing platters, themed cocktails	Annual membership scheme, student discounts
Loading Bar	Not specified	Multiple copies of popular games + arcade machines	Free first hour with drinks, £2/hr after	Digital & analogue games, retro consoles, free arcade games	Game-themed cocktails, craft beers	Special events like karaoke nights, Beyblade tournaments
The Crown and Two Chairmen	Soho	Classic board games (limited selection)	Free	Traditional Georgian-style pub setting	British pub classics, Sunday roasts (£12.50), rotating guest ales	Monday quiz nights

Venue Name	Game Offerings	Food & Drink Options	Pricing	Location/Atmosphere	Special Features
Four Quarters	20 arcade machines (Hackney), 15 arcade machines (Peckham), Retro consoles	Craft beers, cocktails, pizza, burgers, hot dogs	£1.50 for 4 quarters, £5 for 15 quarters; Console booths £6-9/hour	Multiple locations (Peckham, Hackney Wick, Elephant Park); Retro arcade atmosphere	Console booths, DJ sets, beer garden in Hackney
D20 Board Game Bar	Board games, card games (Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh, Lorcana), D&D sessions	Vegan options, milkshakes, slushies, wines, beers, coffees	£2/hour for board games (£1 concession), £1/hour for own games	Watford and Uxbridge locations; Relaxed, inclusive atmosphere	Regular tournaments, LGBTQIA+ events, gaming socials
The Den at St Martins Lane	Curated selection of board games, backgammon	Modern British afternoon tea (£29.50-£42), cocktails, sophisticated dining menu	Not mentioned for games	Covent Garden; Oak-panelled, sophisticated setting	Afternoon tea service, private terrace, artistic décor
Spit & Sawdust	Retro board games, shuffleboard	20 craft beer lines, wine list, Mexican cuisine, tacos	Not mentioned	Borough; Traditional pub setting	Beer garden, live music, pub quiz, private hire options
Ludoquist!	Over 1,400 board games with Games Gurus assistance	Stone-baked pizzas, paninis, craft beers, cocktails, coffee	£8 adults, £4 under-16s for 3-hour sessions	Croydon; Welcoming café atmosphere	Award-winning food, extensive game collection, inclusive environment

London certainly offers an impressive array of board game havens for those dreary, rain-soaked days that define some of the British weather!

Each venue we’ve explored brings something unique to the table – from Draughts’ extensive 1,000+ game collection to Bad Moon Cafe’s specialised RPG facilities, Player’s Social’s gaming pods, Loading Bar’s free arcade games, and The Crown and Two Chairmen’s traditional pub charm.

These board game establishments have transformed how Londoners socialise, creating spaces where friendly competition thrives alongside good food and drink. Their popularity speaks volumes about our collective desire to disconnect from screens and reconnect through face-to-face play. The diversity of options means everyone can find their perfect gaming spot, whether you’re a hardcore strategist seeking complex challenges or simply fancy a casual game of Scrabble with your Sunday roast.

Price points vary significantly across venues, with some charging entry fees while others offer free gaming with purchases. This accessibility ensures board game entertainment remains available regardless of budget constraints. Additionally, most venues have gone beyond merely stocking games – they’ve created complete experiences through themed cocktails, knowledgeable staff, and carefully designed spaces that enhance the gaming experience.

Those seeking another gaming adventure should check out Monday Night Games at the Prince of Peckham pub in South London, where weekly gaming sessions add yet another option to London’s thriving board game scene.

Though digital entertainment dominates modern leisure time, these board game pubs demonstrate the enduring appeal of analogue play. Their cosy atmospheres, combined with London’s notoriously dreary weather, create the perfect recipe for memorable gaming sessions. Therefore, next time rain clouds gather over the capital, grab your friends and head to one of these welcoming venues – your next gaming adventure awaits, alongside excellent drinks, delicious food, and most importantly, genuine human connection.

FAQs

Q1. What are some of the best board game pubs and bars in London? Some top options include Draughts Board Game Café, Bad Moon Cafe, Player’s Social, Loading Bar, and The Crown and Two Chairmen. Each offers a unique gaming experience with different game selections, food and drink options, and atmospheres.

Q2. Do I need to pay an entry fee to play board games at these venues? It varies by location. Draughts and Player’s Social charge gaming fees, while Loading Bar offers the first hour free with drink purchases. The Crown and Two Chairmen typically doesn’t charge for casual gaming. Always check with the specific venue for their current pricing policy.

Q3. What types of games are available at these board game bars? The game selection varies widely. Draughts boasts over 1,000 titles, Bad Moon Cafe specialises in RPGs, Player’s Social offers both digital and analogue options, Loading Bar features arcade games, and The Crown and Two Chairmen focuses on classic board games. Most venues cater to various skill levels and interests.

Q4. Can I get food and drinks while playing games at these places? Yes, all the mentioned venues offer food and drink options. Many have specially crafted menus designed for easy eating while gaming, ranging from sharing platters to full meals. Most also feature unique game-themed cocktails and a selection of beers and wines.

Q5. Are these board game pubs suitable for beginners or casual gamers? Absolutely. While some venues cater to more serious gamers, all welcome beginners. Many offer ‘game gurus’ to explain rules, host beginner-friendly events, and maintain a relaxed atmosphere. The Crown and Two Chairmen, in particular, offers a very casual gaming environment perfect for novices.