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Thinking about adding a billiard or pool table to your home? You're not alone. A billiard table turns a spare room or basement into an instant social hub, mixing friendly competition with low-key style. Whether you're aiming for a family-friendly game room or a grown-up hangout, a pool table brings hours of entertainment, helps sharpen hand-eye coordination, and boosts the look of any space like a piece of classic furniture.
From compact table-top pool sets to full-size snooker tables, the UK market covers everything. High-street retailers stock casual and novelty options while specialist outlets offer pro-level tables and installation. If you saw the "Winning Table Top Pool" at Menkind, that’s a perfect example of a portable, fun option — great for tight spaces or for people who want instant play without a long-term commitment.
Table-top pool is one of the most versatile options if space or budget is tight. These sets sit on a dining table or counter and are usually a couple of feet wide and a few feet long — think 2 to 4 feet in length. They’re portable, lightweight, and perfect for casual play, parties, or kids learning the basics.
Convertible tables offer the best of both worlds: a dining table by day and a pool table by night. Compact versions commonly measure 5 to 6 feet, making them ideal for apartments or multipurpose rooms. If you want a table that doubles as furniture, look for sturdy conversion mechanisms and a durable finish.
For serious players, regulation tables are the go-to. Standard pool tables come in 7-foot, 8-foot, and 9-foot models, while full-size snooker tables are often 12 feet by 6 feet. These tables require space not only for the table itself but for cueing — plan for at least 5 feet clearance around a 7-foot table if you want comfortable play.
Menkind is known in the UK for quirky and fun gift ideas, gadgets, and games, and they often carry compact or novelty pool sets. The Winning Table Top Pool is a great example of what you can expect: quick setup, compact size, and that instant-play appeal. If you need a game that's easy to move and stores away neatly, a table-top set from Menkind can be a smart pick.
Table-top pools are ideal for social gatherings and beginner practice. They won’t replace a full-size table for pros, but they give you the feel of the game without the space or weight of regulation tables. Think of them as the travel-size version of billiards — the perfect starter kit or party trick.
Argos is a go-to for many Brits looking for affordable games and home leisure items. They stock a wide range of options from simple table-top sets to mid-size family pool tables. Argos often runs promotions and has a network of stores for easy click-and-collect, which is handy if you want the convenience of online ordering with quick local pickup.
John Lewis tends to focus on quality and customer experience. Their selection usually includes well-crafted tables that blend into home decor, plus accessories like quality cues and covers. If you want a table that looks as good as it plays, John Lewis is worth checking out for mid- to higher-end options.
Wayfair is a strong choice for variety. They list everything from novelty mini-tables to serious full-size pool and snooker tables. With customer reviews and detailed product specs, Wayfair helps you compare materials and brands without leaving your sofa.
Amazon carries a huge range and is excellent for read-ahead reviews and fast delivery. You’ll find everything from budget table-top sets to specialist cues and accessories. The breadth of options means you can shop by price, size, or customer rating to find a table that fits your lifestyle.
If you’re after a professional installation or a top-tier table, specialist shops are the way to go. Look for places like The Billiard Factory, Snooker Superstore, Oxford Billiards, and The Billiard Shop. These specialists provide expert advice, slate-bed tables, installation, and leveling — the crucial steps that make a high-end table play beautifully.
Specialist retailers often offer warranties, maintenance services, and bespoke finishes. They know the nuances between different felts, rails, and slate thickness — details that matter if you take the game seriously.
Before you buy, measure the room and think about the cue length you’ll use. Standard cues are often around 57 inches long, so allow at least 5 feet of clear space around a 7-foot table. For an 8-foot table, aim for about 5.5 feet of clearance so players can cue comfortably without hitting walls.
If you’re short on space, a 5- to 6-foot compact or a table-top version could be perfect. For a family room or dedicated games room, 7-foot or 8-foot tables are the most common choices. If you have the luxury of space and want true competition feel, a 9-foot pool table or a 12-foot snooker table is the top choice.
Square rooms make cueing easier, but a long narrow room can also work if you plan accordingly. Hard, level flooring is best for installation; carpet can be used, but you’ll want a solid base or a riser to support a heavy slate table so it remains perfectly level during play.
Build quality defines how a table will perform over time. Slate beds and solid hardwood rails are hallmarks of durability and better play characteristics. Cheaper tables often use MDF or veneer and may warp over time. Felt quality also matters: wool blends wear better and provide a truer roll than thin synthetic cloth.
Pay attention to how the rails are attached and whether pockets are leather or plastic. For serious play, slate beds, adjustable leg levelers, and professional felts are worth the extra investment.
Budget planning helps you avoid surprises. Table-top sets are the most affordable and offer immediate value for casual play. Mid-range tables give a balance of size and quality: solid construction without the full professional price tag. Premium, slate-bed tables and custom builds cost more but play and age far better.
Remember to budget for accessories: cues, chalk, a triangle, a cover, and possible professional installation for larger tables. These extras add up, but they also improve the playing experience and protect your investment.
Large slate tables are heavy — a slate section can weigh dozens of pounds — and often need professional assembly and leveling. For smaller or non-slate tables, DIY assembly is practical, but make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and check play level frequently.
Keep the cloth clean by brushing it in one direction to remove dust and chalk. Avoid placing drinks on the table; spills can stain cloth and damage wood. Rotate cushions and check for loose bolts or wear on pockets. A good cover protects the table when it’s not in use.
Higher-end tables may need periodic re-felting or cushion replacement after many years. Slate rarely needs replacement, but re-leveling and re-clothing can refresh a table’s performance. Specialist retailers often offer maintenance packages to keep your table playing like new.
Accessories can transform a casual setup into a proper game room. Quality cues, a cue rack, ball sets, a good triangle, chalk, and table lighting are all worth considering. Proper overhead lighting makes a big difference to play — aim for a consistent, glare-free light source placed about 30 inches above the table surface for the best visibility.
It pays to shop around. Use price comparison sites, retailer reviews, and specialist forums to compare models and read real-customer feedback. High-street shops like Argos and John Lewis often have seasonal deals, while online marketplaces such as Wayfair and Amazon can offer a wide selection and user reviews. For bespoke or high-end tables, specialist retailers can provide quotes and installation options so you can compare apples to apples.
Think beyond the table. Plan the room layout, invest in decent lighting, store cues properly to avoid warping, and keep a small maintenance kit on hand. Invite friends over, organize small tournaments, and use the table as the social centerpiece it’s meant to be. With the right choice, a billiard table becomes more than furniture — it’s a source of memories.
Buying a billiard table is a fun decision that blends lifestyle, space planning, and budget. Whether you pick a Winning Table Top Pool from Menkind for instant fun, a mid-size family table from Argos, or a slate pro-table from a specialist, match the table to your space and how you plan to use it. Do a little measuring, set a realistic budget, and enjoy the process — a great table brings years of entertainment and friendly rivalry.
Conclusion: Choose wisely, measure carefully, and treat your new table well — and you’ll have a home focal point that scores big on fun.
| Billiard Tables | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Winning Mini Table Top Pool | £ 30,- |
