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Dice are tiny powerhouses. They decide fate in roleplaying campaigns, settle arguments in family board games, and add a tactile thrill to strategy nights. But not all dice are created equal: weight, balance, material, and even the font of the numbers change the feel of the roll. If you’re in the UK hunting for a fresh set—be it a shimmering metal d20, a soft-touch resin family set, or an artisan, hand-poured polyhedral collection—knowing where to shop and what to look for makes a big difference. Think of buying dice like picking a pair of trainers: comfort and performance matter, but style and personality are the cherry on top.
Which dice do you need? It depends on what you play. If you’re a tabletop RPG fan you’ll want a full polyhedral set—d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, and d20—while board gamers often use standard six-sided dice. Consider material, too: metal dice feel satisfying and solid in the hand but can scuff table surfaces, whereas resin and acrylic are lightweight and come in endless colorways. Think about size as well; a typical d20 is around 5/8 inch in diameter, which sits comfortably in most hands. Finally, ask yourself whether you want a practical everyday set or a showpiece for special sessions—both choices are valid and fun.
Plastic and acrylic are the workhorses: affordable, durable, and available in every pattern imaginable. Resin pours allow for inclusions like glitter, tiny figures, or swirling color transitions, giving each die a small, frozen story. Metal dice deliver a satisfying heft and a unique click when they hit the table, but they can chip softer surfaces if you’re not careful. Specialty materials—wood, stone, or ceramic—offer artisanal charm and a tactile warmth that feels almost heirloom-worthy. Each material brings trade-offs in cost, durability, and sound; pick what matches your playstyle and budget.
Dice size affects readability and comfort. Most hobby dice are built around a 5/8 inch d20, which balances manageability and clear numbering. For a d6, around 5/8 to 3/4 inch cubes are common and comfortable for quick rolls during board games. Mini dice exist for travel or dexterity games, but they can be harder to handle. If eyesight or dexterity is a concern, go for larger faces and high-contrast numbering—big, bold numerals make rolls faster and more satisfying. Try holding a few sets in a shop if you can; it’s the best way to see what fits your hand.
The UK has a healthy mix of specialist retailers, toy chains, hobby stores, and online marketplaces that stock dice sets. Whether you want a boutique artisan set, a bulk bag of plain dice, or the latest limited-edition drops, there’s a store for every need. Below are reliable options that British gamers and families often turn to—each with its own sweet spot, from mainstream availability to niche speciality.
The Entertainer is a nationwide toy retailer that’s great for families hunting for classic board game dice, novelty sets, and affordable starter polyhedral packs. Its shops are easy to browse and often carry seasonal or branded dice tied to popular kids’ games, making it a handy stop for casual players or parents shopping for a fun stocking filler. Expect approachable price points and plenty of colourful options aimed at younger players.
Smyths is another high-street staple that stocks game accessories alongside toys and family games. Their selection usually includes standard dice for mainstream board games and occasional polyhedral kits for budding RPG fans. If you want convenience and a trusted retailer for a quick replacement set, Smyths is a solid choice.
Hobbycraft attracts crafters and hobbyists, so it’s a good place to look for dice if you’re interested in DIY projects, storage solutions, or creating custom dice displays. While their range may lean more craft than gamer-specific, you can often find plain dice in bulk, miniature dice for small projects, and supplies to build dice trays and organizers that make the rolling experience neater and more stylish.
If you play miniatures games, Games Workshop is an obvious stop. Known for Warhammer and other tabletop lines, the store stocks specialized dice themed to its universe—often heavier and designed to match the aesthetic of the models. These dice also appeal to collectors who like branded accessories that tie directly to their armies and campaigns. Expect premium prices for official merchandise, but also unique designs you won’t find everywhere.
Firestorm Games is a UK-based online retailer with a strong reputation among board gamers. They tend to stock a wide range of board games and accessories, including polyhedral sets, novelty dice, and storage solutions aimed at the serious hobbyist. If you’re looking for variety and a shop that understands gamer needs, specialty online stores like Firestorm often have curated selections and occasional exclusive drops.
Specialist dice retailers—like The Dice Shop (UK operations and similar niche sites)—focus almost entirely on dice and accessories. These shops are goldmines for collectors: artisan pours, metal editions, and bulk mixes are common, alongside dice trays, bags, and measurement guides. When you want depth over breadth, a specialist store offers the expertise and selection that general retailers can’t match.
Marketplaces are unbeatable for sheer choice. Amazon and eBay list thousands of dice sets across price ranges, while Etsy offers hand-crafted and custom options from independent artists. Marketplaces are ideal when you’re shopping by budget, searching for obscure designs, or looking to commission a personalised set. The trade-off is that quality varies—so check photos, descriptions, and seller feedback carefully before buying.
Forbidden Planet and local independent game stores often carry a curated mix of dice for fans of comics, sci-fi, and niche hobby gaming. Independents tend to stock unique or boutique sets, and the staff can recommend products based on local trends or the kinds of games people in your area play. If you prefer a personal touch and the chance to hold dice before you buy, indie stores are worth visiting.
Shopping in-store lets you feel the weight, check the printing, and try a roll on real surfaces, which is priceless for tactile buyers. But online shops and marketplaces offer unmatched selection and often better value on bulk buys or rare limited editions. If you’re after something specific—like a heavy steel set or a limited colorway—online specialists will likely have it. If you want to test which dice feel right in your hand, head to a local store. It’s the difference between trying on shoes and reading a product page; both have their place.
Different games call for different dice personalities. For RPGs, look for a full polyhedral set with a clear and readable d20; metals or high-quality resin options elevate special sessions. For family board games, durable acrylic d6s with clear pips work best. If you host casino-style game nights or dexterity challenges, consider weighted, oversized, or novelty dice that change the dynamic. Party games often favour quirky shapes and bright colors to keep the mood light—think of dice as mood music for the gaming table.
Seek consistent balance and legible numbering. A good polyhedral set should roll fairly and be comfortable to handle for extended sessions. Many UK retailers offer starter bundles for newcomers and premium artisan lines for collectors. Consider carrying a spare set in your bag—dice have a way of walking off when snacks are involved.
For family and strategy board games, durability and clarity matter most. Look for strong edges and durable prints that won’t fade after a few plays. Bulk packs are great for hobbyists who run events or need replacements for multiple games. Keep a cheap set in a travel case for holiday trips—lightweight dice make packing easier.
Dice are small, but their care extends playtime and keeps them looking great. Use padded trays to protect them from scratches and chipping—especially for metal sets. Store delicate or artisan dice in soft pouches or foam-lined boxes to prevent rattling and color fade. Avoid leaving resin dice in direct sunlight for long periods; UV can dull vibrant swirls. A gentle wipe with a soft cloth will remove oil and grime after long sessions—treat them like tiny trophies that deserve a bit of TLC.
Prices vary widely. Budget sets—simple acrylic or plastic polyhedral packs—can be quite affordable and perfect for newcomers. Mid-range options, often cast in higher-quality resin with better numbering, offer great value and durability. Premium metal or artisan hand-poured sets command higher prices due to craftsmanship and materials. Consider your use: if you play nightly, investing in a nicer set makes sense; if you play occasionally, a less expensive set can still bring plenty of joy.
Look for clean, readable numbers, consistent edges, and a feel that matches the material advertised. For polyhedral dice, check balance by trying a few rolls—no die should favor a particular face consistently. Inspect photos or request close-ups if buying online; you want to see the numbering and seams. Reviews from other buyers are valuable—pay attention to comments about durability and readability over time. Finally, don’t underestimate presentation: a lined pouch or a wooden box might cost a bit more, but it keeps your dice safe and makes them feel special.
Want dice that tell your story? Custom options let you pick colors, inclusions, and even custom fonts or engraved symbols. Many UK artisans and small shops accept commissions, producing one-of-a-kind sets that can match a campaign theme or commemorate an event. Custom work can be pricier and takes longer to produce, but the result is a set that’s truly yours—like commissioning a piece of jewelry for your gaming table.
Buying dice in the UK is fun and flexible—whether you shop a high-street chain for convenience, a specialist store for depth, or an artisan for that showstopper set. Know your needs: choose materials that match your budget and play style, consider ergonomics and readability, and don’t be afraid to mix and match sets for different games. Dice are more than tools; they’re companions to stories, strategies, and laughter. So pick a set that makes you smile when you open the pouch—that’s when the magic truly begins.
