Looking for an activity in Leeds with a big ol’ dose of healthy competition? These board game spots have you covered.
From strategising with Settlers of Catan to trying to survive Pandemic and whizzing into adventure with Ticket to Ride, board game cafes in Leeds have it all. If you’re looking for a place to kick back, enjoy a good drink and try your best to beat your friends, then it’s hard to go wrong with these fun-filled venues. Cards, strategy, role-play, they’re all here, and then some. There’s only one rule – no flipping the board!
Chance & Counters
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When it comes to board games, no one does it quite like Chance & Counters. Step inside and you’ll find a gaming paradise, with over 700 games spread over two floors. There are nine categories to go at, from quick games to hard strategy, with something for everyone. They’ve even got dedicated board gaming tables with shelves underneath, so you can stow away the box while you play! Throw in comfort food and an epic drinks menu, and you’re set for the night.
Where? Chance & Counters, 6-8 Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PQ.
How much? £2.50 per person per hour off-peak or £3.50 per person per hour during peak time.
When it’s open: 12pm to 11pm Tuesday to Thursday, 12pm to midnight Friday and Saturday, and 12pm to 9pm Sunday. Closed Monday.
Find out more: chanceandcounters.com
Cards or Die
Credit: Ann Jones
Board games are a great way to bring people together, and that’s the ethos of Cards or Die. The brainchild of teacher and board game enthusiast Ann Jones, Cards or Die is a series of pop-ups held in venues across Leeds and beyond. Turn up to one of their events and you can play a range of retro favourites and modern classics, with Ann on hand to guide you every step of the way. Like what you see? You can even book them for your own event – including weddings!
Where? Cards or Die, Newlay Wood Fold, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4HJ.
How much? No hourly booking fee and many events are free to attend.
When it’s open: Varies depending on event.
Find out more: cardsordie.com
Outlaws Yacht Club
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Outlaws is a jack of all trades. Not only is it a fantastic bar, but it’s also a record shop, cafe and even a hairdressers – and a great place to play board games. You’ll find a well-loved stash of popular games to challenge your mates at, with everything from Boggle and Scrabble to Cluedo and Ludo. Grab yourself a cosy sofa, order a round of drinks and you’ve got the perfect way to spend an afternoon. If you get peckish, their grilled cheese is loved far and wide.
Where? Outlaws Yacht Club, 38 New York Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7DY.
How much? No hourly booking fee.
When it’s open: 11am to 11pm Monday to Wednesday, 11am to midnight Thursday to Saturday, and 1pm to 9pm Sunday.
Find out more: outlawsyachtclub.com
Water Lane Boathouse
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Another bar in Leeds that comes with a modest but mighty selection of board games is Water Lane Boathouse. Head in and grab a table – preferably one with a stunning view over the river – then choose what you want to play. You could be supping on cocktails with Cluedo, chowing down on cheesy slices with Scrabble or just lazing around with a pint as you enjoy a round of The LOGO Board Game. Plus, there’s also regular quiz and bingo nights if you want to up the ante even more.
Where? Water Lane Boathouse, Canal Wharf, Holbeck, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 5PS.
How much? No hourly booking fee.
When it’s open: 11:30am to 11pm Monday to Thursday, 11:30am to midnight Friday and Saturday, and 11:30am to 10pm Sunday.
Find out more: waterlaneboathouse.com
Travelling Man
Credit: Travelling Man
Not only is Travelling Man one of the best places to buy comic books in Leeds – it’s also a haven for board games. They stock everything from strategy games to card games, role-playing games to miniature games, alongside a huge selection of merchandise. With an absolutely mind-blowing back catalogue, it’s the perfect place if you’re looking to try something new. Cockroach poker, anyone? Keep an eye out for their special events and yard sales, which always draw a crowd.
Where? Travelling Man, 32 Central Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DE.
How much? No hourly booking fee.
When it’s open: 10am to 6pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 5pm Sunday.
Find out more: travellingman.com
