Duelling on a night out
Inside Cargo, a trendy bar in Shoreditch, voices are raised in heated debate. No, it's not a discussion on the merits of Lost, but the faintly odd spectacle of five young people gathered around a Scrabble board arguing whether 'minuscule' is spelt with an 'i' or a 'u' (it can be spelled with either.
'Board games are really popular with customers', says Polly Hughes, the manager of Cargo, where games like backgammon, draughts and dominoes are supplied for free for anyone who wants to play.
'Seven days a week, people seem to really like sitting back and playing a game with friends over dinner or a drink'.
Londoners like Mark Turner are flocking to alternative night spots such as Cargo during the week to play games. 'I like doing something that stimulates my brain' explains Turner, 21, from Mile End.
'After a day at work, the thought of watching TV is horrible - it's too much like a computer screen. Games really help me relax'.
As Turner proves, board games aren't just for Christmas, schoolchildren and octogenarians. If you'd like to get in on the action then check out our handy round-up of some of London's game nights.
Remember, stimulating brain activity and having fun need not be mutually exclusive.
Greenwich
Word Games
Do Scrabble and alcohol mix? Well, staff at Greenwich Picture House are about to find out when they unveil a new night which combines Boggle, Countdown and the like with drinks promotions and prizes.
Greenwich Picture House, 180 Greenwich High Road, SE10 0870 755 0065, Wednesday, 9pm, free.
Islington
Prince Albert, Angel,
A friendly, civilised pub that bucks the trend: no blaring music and shouted conversations; no surly, indifferent staff; beer and food that tastes damn good; and no rip-off prices. How many pubs have copies of 'The Elegant Universe' and 'The Tools of Philosophy' scattered around its browsing shelves? There's 'Private Eye' in the magazine rack and a collection of unusual indoor/board games. The Pub Philosophy talks-discussions on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month are a delight, as is the clarinet/guitar jazz duo on Friday evenings.
This is a place for beer, food & conversation and a great spot for a leisurely lunch.
16, Elia St, London, N1 8DE Islington
Cargo
Games-wise, visitors to this bar-cum-club are spoilt for choice, with Scrabble, chess, draughts, backgammon and dominoes all up for grabs. The long wooden tables are also perfect for some group game action. Though it's best to stop by earlier in the week, when it tends to be less busy.
Cargo, 83 Rivington Street, EC2 020 7749 7844, free.
West London
Chess Club
You'll find many a knight here, but shining armour, or Garry Kasparov-bothering skills are not a pre-requisite this chess club caters for players of all abilities.
Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 www.westlondonchess.com, Wednesdays, 7.15pm Subscription £50pa.
The Acol Bridge Club
Whether you're a pro, a beginner or simply up for making some new friends, this club has something for everyone. Bridge sessions are held every day, open to all levels of expertise. Call to find out what's on offer, as times can vary.
The Acol Bridge Club, 86 West End Lane, NW6 020 7624 7407 www.acolbridgeclub.co.uk Subscription £20pa.
