Best Board Game Cafes in London
- alanjohnjeffery
- Dec 5, 2025
- 8 min read
Updated: Dec 7, 2025
Why London’s Board Game Cafés Are Thriving
Forget stuffy pubs and overpriced cocktails—London’s latest social craze involves dice, meeples (miniature people), and a healthy dose of friendly competition. Board game cafés have transformed from niche hangouts into buzzing hubs where strategy meets snacks. Picture this: themed interiors that feel like stepping into a fantasy novel, craft cocktails named after your favourite games, and shelves stacked with everything from Catan to Cards Against Humanity. Whether you’re plotting world domination in Risk or just trying not to flip the Monopoly board, these cafés promise laughter, connection, and a break from screen fatigue. In short, they’re the ultimate antidote to London’s fast-paced chaos—one roll at a time.
Top Board Game Cafés to Visit
Draughts
Think of Draughts as the Buckingham Palace of board game cafés—grand, iconic, and brimming with loyal subjects (over 1,000 games) awaiting your command. Whether you’re conquering continents in Risk, plotting betrayal in Catan, or diving into quirky indie titles, this is where strategy meets indulgence. The vibe? Warm, lively, and just competitive enough to make you question your friendships—don’t worry, the churros and craft beers will smooth things over.
Why go?
Three prime locations: Waterloo, Hackney, and Stratford—perfect for pre- or post-adventure hangs.
A colossal game library: From classics to cult favorites, there’s something for every level of gamer.
Food & drink that deliver: Burgers, Korean fried chicken, loaded fries, and a rotating selection of draught beers.
Affordable fun: Sessions cost around £7–£9 per person for three hours, making it a budget-friendly way to spend an afternoon or evening.
Pro tip: Book ahead—especially on weekends—because this royal court fills up fast.
Draughts official site: www.draughtslondon.com
The Library Pot
If Hogwarts ever opened a café in Richmond, it would look like The Library Pot—a whimsical hideaway where magic meets meeples. Picture cosy corners draped in fairy lights, steaming bowls of Thai curry, and shelves stacked with games that make Monopoly look like an ancient relic. From Exploding Kittens to brain-bending strategy titles, this is the perfect spot to lose track of time—and maybe your dignity during a heated round of Dobble.
Why go?
Hundreds of games: From family favorites to niche gems, there’s something for every mood.
Eclectic menu: Think kimchi noodles, hearty chicken burgers, and comfort food with a twist.
Cocktails & more: Sip on inventive drinks while plotting your next move.
Affordable sessions: Around £6.50 per person, plus a minimum spend—worth every penny for hours of fun.
Pro tip: This place is as quirky as it is popular, so book ahead and bring your inner wizard.
Official Website: https://librarypot.uk/
Loading Bar
Ever wished your cocktail came with a side of nostalgia? Loading Bar is your cheat code for a night of pixel-perfect fun. This gamer’s paradise serves up themed drinks like Pokémon Go, Super Mario 3D Land, and other retro-inspired concoctions that taste as good as they sound. Between sips, you can dive into a mix of board games, arcade classics, and even modern console titles—all in a space that feels like your childhood bedroom levelled up.
Why go?
Two locations: Dalston and Stoke Newington—both buzzing with gamer energy.
Themed cocktails & craft beers: Drinks designed for geeks and gamers alike.
Affordable playtime: A pay-per-hour system at around £2/hr, so you only pay for the time you play.
Retro vibes: Neon lights, consoles, and a soundtrack that’ll make you want to dust off your old Game Boy.
Pro tip: Go with friends who appreciate a good throwback—and maybe brush up on your Mario Kart skills before you arrive.
Official Website: https://loading.bar/
Bad Moon Café
This is where the serious gamers gather—the kind who speak fluent Warhammer lore, duel over Magic: The Gathering, and dive into RPG campaigns that last longer than your commute. The vibe? Dim lighting, geek-chic décor, and a soundtrack of dice clattering on table tops. Every corner whispers, “Roll for initiative.” If you’re looking for casual Scrabble, move along—this is the big leagues.
Why go?
For the hardcore gamer: Perfect for RPG fans, table top tournaments, and miniature painting nights.
Community-driven events: Regular meetups, leagues, and workshops for those who want to level up their skills.
Fuel for the quest: Great coffee, hearty snacks, and a menu designed to keep you rolling through marathon sessions.
Immersive atmosphere: A space that feels like stepping into your favorite campaign setting.
Pro tip: Bring your army—or your imagination. And maybe clear your calendar, because you won’t want to leave.
Official Website: https://www.badmooncafe.co.uk/
The Ludoquist
Croydon’s crown jewel of cardboard kingdoms, The Ludoquist is where strategy meets sourdough. With over 1,400 games lining its shelves, this is a paradise for anyone who loves rolling dice, flipping cards, and debating the finer points of Terraforming Mars. The atmosphere is bright, welcoming, and family-friendly—perfect for both seasoned gamers and curious newcomers. And the food? Stone-baked pizza so good it deserves its own fan club, plus craft beers and cocktails to keep the good times flowing.
Why go?
Massive game library: From classics to cult favourites, you’ll never run out of options.
Delicious menu: Stone-baked pizzas, sharing platters, and drinks that pair perfectly with play.
Family-friendly vibes: Great for groups, date nights, or even solo adventurers.
Open daily until late: Plenty of time to squeeze in “just one more game.”
Pro tip: Book ahead—especially on weekends—and come hungry. You’ll want to try the pizza.
Official Website: https://theludoquist.com/
The Arcanist’s Tavern
Step inside and you’ll swear you’ve wandered into the pages of a medieval fantasy novel. Candlelight flickers against stone walls, cloaked servers glide between tables, and the air hums with the sound of dice rolls and whispered incantations. This isn’t just a café—it’s an experience, designed for adventurers who want their gaming served with a side of magic. Whether you’re battling dragons in D&D, weaving spells in a card duel, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, The Arcanist’s Tavern is a portal to another world.
Why go?
Themed décor: Think tavern tables, gothic chandeliers, and props that make you feel like you’re in a campaign setting.
Immersive events: Regular RPG nights, live storytelling sessions, and fantasy-themed tournaments.
Menu fit for adventurers: Hearty platters, medieval-inspired dishes, and drinks with names straight out of a spell book.
Perfect for role-players: A haven for D&D fans, LARPers, and anyone who loves a good quest.
Pro tip: Dress the part—costumes are welcome and often encouraged. And if you’re new to RPGs, the staff are happy to guide you through your first adventure.
Official Website: http://www.arcaniststavern.uk/
Otter Chaos
Brixton’s quirkiest hideaway, Otter Chaos is where cosy chaos reigns supreme. Picture this: shelves stacked with 500+ board games, the aroma of sourdough pizza wafting through the air, and cocktails that pack a punch. It’s intimate, vibrant, and just unpredictable enough to feel like playing Uno with an actual otter (minus the wet fur). Whether you’re here for a quick game or an all-night marathon, expect laughter, friendly rivalries, and glorious mayhem.
Why go?
Community-driven vibe: A welcoming space that feels more like a friend’s living room than a café.
Solid game selection: From party favorites to strategy-heavy titles, there’s something for every mood.
Great food & drinks: Sourdough pizzas, hearty snacks, and cocktails that deserve their own leader board.
Perfect for groups: Bring friends, bring appetite, and prepare for an evening of fun that might get loud.
Pro tip: Weekends can get busy—book ahead and come hungry. The pizza is worth the hype.
Official Website: https://www.otterchaos.co.uk/
RPG Taverns
If you’ve ever dreamed of slaying dragons in a Shoreditch basement, this is your quest. RPG Taverns isn’t your typical café—it’s a portal to another realm, where ticketed Dungeons & Dragons sessions come fully equipped with detailed maps, painted minis, and professional Game Masters who know how to spin a story that’ll keep you hooked for hours. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious newcomer, expect epic battles, clever puzzles, and plenty of laughs along the way. And yes—snacks and drinks are part of the experience, because even heroes need fuel.
Why go?
Dedicated D&D venue: No distractions, just pure role-playing immersion.
Expert hosts: Professional GMs who craft unforgettable campaigns.
All the gear provided: Minis, maps, dice—just bring your imagination.
Snacks included: Because adventuring on an empty stomach is never wise.
Community vibe: Meet fellow adventurers and maybe form your next party.
Pro tip: Sessions are ticketed and fill up fast—book early and prepare to roll for initiative.
Official Website: https://rpgtaverns.com/
Rogues Quarter
Nestled in the heart of Soho, Rogues Quarter is where strategy meets theatreland swagger. This isn’t just a gaming spot—it’s a stage for epic campaigns, dramatic dice rolls, and the occasional monologue when someone loses at Gloomhaven. The vibe is classy chaos: sleek interiors, buzzing tables, and a crowd that takes their games seriously (but never themselves). Whether you’re plotting in Twilight Imperium, role-playing in an RPG session, or just soaking up the geek-chic energy, this is where big plays and bigger personalities collide.
Why go?
Hardcore strategy heaven: Perfect for fans of deep, complex games and RPG nights.
Central location: Right in Soho, surrounded by bars and theatres—ideal for a full night out.
Community feel: Expect lively banter, friendly rivalries, and maybe a few theatrical flourishes.
Food & drink: A curated menu of snacks and drinks to keep you fuelled through marathon sessions.
Pro tip: Book ahead for RPG nights—they’re popular and often themed. And bring your A-game; this crowd loves a challenge.
Official Website: https://www.roguesquarter.com/
The Treehouse
Crouch End’s answer to cosy gaming bliss, The Treehouse is the kind of place where deadlines disappear and laughter takes over. Think plush seating, shelves lined with indie gems and party favourites, and cakes so photogenic they could start their own Instagram account. Whether you’re sipping a latte over a quick round of Dobble, diving into a quirky card game, or just catching up with friends, this spot is all about light-hearted fun in a relaxed, welcoming space.
Why go?
Relaxed atmosphere: Perfect for casual gamers, families, and anyone who wants a stress-free escape.
Coffee & cakes that wow: Seriously, the desserts here are worth the trip alone.
Party games galore: From quick-fire card games to laugh-out-loud classics, ideal for groups.
Community vibe: Friendly staff and a space that feels like home—minus the washing up.
Pro tip: Pair your game session with one of their signature cakes and a flat white. You’ll thank yourself later.
Game Over? Not Quite.
London’s board game cafés aren’t just about rolling dice—they’re about rolling out good times. Whether you’re plotting world domination over pizza, sipping a cocktail named after your favourite video game, or diving headfirst into a D&D dungeon, these spots prove that fun doesn’t need a screen. So grab your crew, pick your poison (game or drink), and let the meeples fall where they may. After all, in London, the only thing better than winning is laughing while you play.
Ready to Roll?
Don’t just read about London’s best board game cafés—experience them! Grab your friends, pick your favourite spot from this list, and let the dice decide your destiny. Share your gaming adventures with us in the comments or tag #AlsGuideToLondon on Instagram. Got a favourite café we missed? Tell us—we’re always looking for the next great game night!
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Great suggestions