Outdoor Games

Best Outdoor Games in the UK: Menkind, Tyres.net and Top Picks for Backyard Fun

Why outdoor games still rule backyard gatherings

Remember the crackle of grass under your shoes, the sun on your face, and a simple game turning an ordinary afternoon into something memorable? Outdoor games do that—fast, social, and often delightfully silly. Whether you're planning a family barbecue, a kids' party, or a friendly competition with neighbours, a well-chosen game turns underused outdoor space into a stage for laughs and memories. In the UK, several retailers stock ready-made games while giving you ideas for DIY fun, so you don't need Michelin-star planning to create a great day outside.

How to pick the right retailer for outdoor games

Choosing where to buy comes down to three things: selection, durability, and budget. Some shops specialise in novelty and themed sets; others focus on sports-grade equipment. Look for retailers that describe materials (wood, weather-resistant plastics, rope) and recommend ages. If you want quick delivery and wide choice, national shops are handy. If you prefer quirky or novelty items, specialist stores often win. Combining a buy-from-store approach with a DIY hack—like turning an old tyre into an obstacle—is a smart way to balance cost versus character.

Menkind: novelty and family-friendly outdoor games

Menkind is known for fun, offbeat gifts and garden games that make a statement. Their range often includes compact sets that are easy to store and transport—ideal if your garden is cozy or you plan to take games to the park. Menkind leans into design and novelty, offering items that are Instagram-friendly and surprisingly playable. If you're hosting a mixed-age group, their offerings tend to have broad appeal, from cheeky challenge sets to classic lawn games with a twist.

Winning Ring Toss Game — a classic with a modern spin

One standout in the Menkind world is the Winning Ring Toss Game. It's familiar enough that grandparents recognise it, but stylised enough to appeal to modern sensibilities. Ring toss is deceptively strategic—short-range aim, a little footwork, and a clerkiness of skill make it addictive. For smaller gardens a typical ring toss set takes up only a few feet of space and can be anchored on grass or a patio. It’s portable, easy to set up, and great for kids aged around 4 and up.

Other Menkind favourites to consider

Beyond ring toss, Menkind often stocks giant versions of classics—think oversized Jenga, novelty skittles, and themed cornhole boards. These items bring bigger spectacle to gatherings and work well as centrepieces for party photos. Expect bright colours, playful branding, and packaging that makes them good as gifts. If your priority is fun-per-foot, these sets usually offer high entertainment value while being simple to store during UK weather swings.

Tyres.net: unexpected resource for outdoor game upcycling

Tyres.net might not be the first name that springs to mind when you think “garden games,” but hear me out: tyres are one of the most versatile raw materials around. Tyres.net sells tyre models like the Tt93f Gp Pro for vehicles, and while the primary use is automotive, many households repurpose retired tyres into play equipment. If you’re looking to build an obstacle course, a tyre swing, or a rustic ring toss target, sourcing a durable tyre is a practical and eco-friendly approach—especially if you prefer upcycling to new plastic.

Tt93f Gp Pro — repurposing a tyre for play

The Tt93f Gp Pro is listed as a specific tyre model that has robust sidewalls and good durability. For DIYers, a tyre with thick tread and solid construction makes a safer candidate for play because it holds shape and resists tearing. Turn it into a tyre swing by adding weatherproof rope and a secure hanging point, or stack several to create an agility ladder. Remember to inspect any tyre for sharp debris and clean it thoroughly before children use it—safety first.

Creative tyre-based games you can make

Tires can become ring-toss targets, small climbing platforms, or the foundation of a rustic cornhole variant. A simple game involves laying out tyres on the ground in a hop pattern; players jump from tyre to tyre without touching the grass. Another idea: paint tyre interiors with bright colours and use them as bullseye targets for beanbags. These projects are inexpensive and let you tailor sizes to your garden—use tyres that are 2 or 3 feet across for kids and larger ones for adult-friendly challenges.

Other UK stores to check for outdoor games

Depending on your style and budget, different UK retailers shine. From household names to specialist sports shops, you’ll find everything from picnic-friendly sets to tournament-grade gear. Below are reliable options to get you started—mixing nostalgia, quality, and price.

Argos — convenience and variety

Argos offers a wide array of budget-friendly lawn games, often available for fast collection from local stores. Their selection ranges from basic garden darts to family-sized croquet sets. If convenience and quick fulfilment are priorities, Argos tends to be a go-to. Items are usually well-reviewed by parents for durability and price, making it a solid choice for one-off events or seasonal refreshes.

Decathlon — sports-grade and beginner-friendly gear

Decathlon is excellent for sports-oriented outdoor games. Whether you're after a frisbee set, touch rugby equipment, or a cricket starter kit, Decathlon offers gear that balances performance and price. Materials are often engineered to last and withstand wet conditions—a definite advantage in the UK. If you want something that will survive frequent play and occasional roughhousing, look here first.

Go Outdoors and Smyths Toys — specialist and family-focused

Go Outdoors leans into outdoor living and adventure, stocking camping-friendly games and rugged equipment. Smyths Toys, on the other hand, targets children and families with brightly coloured games and licensed sets that appeal to younger players. Both retailers are handy depending on whether you want something rugged for serious play or playful and themed for kids’ parties.

John Lewis — premium choices and design-focused sets

For shoppers seeking polished, long-lasting sets that double as garden decor, John Lewis often has high-quality options. Think solid wood croquet sets, elegant boules, and carefully finished outdoor chess boards. These items are ideal if you want games that look good on the patio and endure through seasons.

How to choose the right game for your garden size

Measure your available space in feet and plan for safety zones. A small patio might comfortably host a cornhole board that uses about 8 feet of depth between throwing lines, while a backyard that’s about 30 feet across can handle lawn bowling or a small cricket practice area. Think in terms of play circles: each activity needs room for players to move and observers to stand. Don’t cram too much into a tight space—games feel better when people can actually move.

Budget-friendly outdoor games and DIY hacks

You don’t need a big budget to have a blast outdoors. DIY options—like the tyre projects mentioned earlier, a bucket toss using painted pails, or a homemade obstacle course using garden furniture—keep costs down and creativity up. Even simple materials like washable paint, rope, and a few wooden stakes can transform a small patch of grass into a memorable playground. Many DIY builds are family projects too; handing a paintbrush to the kids creates memories before the games even start.

Safety, maintenance, and weather considerations

Outdoor games are fun, but they can be hazardous without thought. Anchor tall items, pad hard edges, and pick materials rated for outdoor use—look for weather-resistant finishes and UV-stable plastics. If a game uses small pieces, keep an eye on younger children and avoid setups on hard surfaces where falls could be worse. After play, store sets in a dry spot or under a cover to prevent mildew and rust; a little upkeep extends the life of your favourite items.

Planning a backyard games day: tips for a smooth event

Want to host an event that people keep talking about? Mix simple competition formats with rounds that everyone can join. Set up a scoreboard, rotate teams after each round, and include a mix of high-skill and silly games so winners and the easy-going both have a chance. Offer water and shade if the day runs long; even in the UK, a bright day can feel intense. Finally, have a backup plan—if rain appears, move to covered patio fun or set up spirited indoor challenges.

Final thoughts on buying and creating outdoor games in the UK

From Menkind’s novelty-packed sets like the Winning Ring Toss Game to the resourceful upcycling ideas using tyres from sites such as Tyres.net, there’s a world of options for every garden, budget, and taste. Blend ready-made purchases with clever DIY to get unique experiences that feel personal and memorable. The key is matching the game to your space, audience, and how much effort you want to invest. With a bit of creativity, even a small patch of lawn can become the scene of unforgettable play.

Conclusion: Embrace the outdoors, gather a few friends, and let games do the rest—after all, the best memories are made in motion and laughter.