Baizewick guide
English pool rules: eight-ball and blackball explained
In English pool you clear your group of seven reds or seven yellows, then pot the black to win. The rules vary more than most people expect, so agree them before you start.
The basics
English pool is played with seven reds, seven yellows and the black. Each player, or team, is given one group: reds or yellows.
You pot all seven of your group, then legally pot the black to win the frame. You strike the cue ball only with the tip of the cue.
Rule sets vary
Pub pool in the UK is played under several rule sets. The two families you are most likely to meet are:
| Traditional pub rules | Blackball rules | |
|---|---|---|
| After a foul | The opponent usually gets two visits | The opponent usually gets the cue ball in hand |
| Ball in hand | Usually from behind the baulk line | Usually anywhere on the table |
| Where used | Many pubs and casual games | Many leagues and competitions |
Details differ between leagues, venues and households. Agree the rules before the first break, especially what happens after a foul.
The break
The cue ball is played from behind the baulk line. The breaker must make a legal break as set out in the rules you are using.
That usually means hitting the pack and either potting a ball or driving a minimum number of balls to a cushion. If a ball goes down on the break, the breaker usually plays again.
Choosing groups
In most versions, the table is “open” after the break. The first player to legally pot a red or a yellow takes that colour as their group.
Some local rules assign groups differently, so check before you play.
Common fouls
- Potting the cue ball.
- Hitting the opponent’s ball or the black first (unless you are on the black).
- Failing to hit any ball, or failing to hit a cushion after contact, under rules that require it.
- Potting an opponent’s ball.
- Touching a ball with anything other than the cue tip on the cue ball.
- Playing with no foot touching the floor.
- Jump shots, where they are not allowed.
Shots that lose the frame
Under most rule sets, you lose the frame straight away if you:
- pot the black before clearing your group, unless the rules allow a re-rack on the break;
- pot the black and the cue ball in the same shot;
- pot the black off a foul shot.
Etiquette for home games
- Agree the rules and who breaks before you start. Many players alternate breaks.
- Call your pocket on the black if your rules require it.
- Chalk away from the table and keep drinks off the cushions.