Bars in London 🍸

Most board games bars in London charge a small cover fee per person, usually between £3-£5. This often covers access to their entire library. Some places waive this if you're ordering food or multiple drinks. Roll For Truth, for example, has a £5 cover charge which gets you access to hundreds of games.

Avoid Saturday nights if you want a table without a long wait. For the best chance, aim for a weeknight, especially Tuesday or Wednesday, before 7 PM. If you're set on a weekend, try to arrive right when they open around 5 PM or call ahead to see if Meeple Mayhem takes reservations for larger groups.

Some of the larger board games bars do take reservations, especially for groups. The Wardrobe Game Bar often recommends booking ahead, particularly for weekend evenings. It's wise to check their individual websites or give them a quick call. For smaller, more casual spots, it's often first-come, first-served.

Expect casual pub grub and a decent selection of beers, ciders, and some basic cocktails. Think pizzas, burgers, and sharing platters rather than fine dining. Prices for drinks are standard London pub prices, with pints ranging from £5-£7 and cocktails around £12-£16. Some places, like Roll For Truth, also offer specialty themed drinks to match game nights.

Yes, many are accessible via the Tube. Meeple Mayhem is a short walk from Elephant & Castle station. In Shoreditch, Roll For Truth is accessible from Old Street or Shoreditch High Street Overground. Always check TFL for service updates before you travel, or use the Seeker Social app (Android / iOS) to find places near your current location.

Absolutely. Most board games bars are geared towards casual play, with games ranging from simple party games like Cards Against Humanity to more complex strategy titles. Staff are often happy to recommend games based on your group size and experience. Don't be afraid to ask for suggestions; they want you to have fun!

The main difference is the focus. While a regular pub offers drinks and maybe a quiz night, a board games bar has a dedicated library of hundreds of games readily available for patrons to play. The atmosphere is generally more relaxed and interactive, encouraging social engagement around the table, unlike a typical neighborhood bar.