Start here
Your games room, step by step.
New to planning a games room? Work through these steps in order. Each one links to the guides and tools you need at that stage.
- 01
Measure the room
Work out the clear space you have, from obstructions rather than walls, and check what fits.
Room size checker →What fits which room →Layout planner →Pool table room size →Table tennis space →
- 02
Check the floor and the route in
Find the pinch points on the delivery route and check the floor can take the table, especially upstairs.
Delivery route checker →Delivery route guide →Slate vs MDF →Loft and upstairs rooms →Pinch point →
- 03
Prepare the room
Deal with damp, warmth, light and power before the table arrives.
Games-room flooring →Garage games room →Garden room games room →Games-room lighting →Table light height calculator →
- 04
Choose the games
Pick the games that suit the household and the space, including the ages of the players.
Family games room →Multi-game tables →English vs American pool →
- 05
Buy on specifications
Compare playing areas, beds, weights and delivery services, not labels and hype.
Pool tables →Used pool-table checklist →Snooker tables →Table tennis tables →Dartboards →
- 06
Kit it out
Get the cues, balls, rests, cover and light that make the table playable and protected.
Accessories checklist →Cue weight, length and tip →Choosing darts →
- 07
Set it up
Level the table, hang the dartboard at the right height and agree the rules.
Level a pool table →Dartboard height and distance →Snooker rules →English pool rules →
- 08
Look after it
Brush, cover and maintain the table and cues so they keep playing well.