So, you're on the hunt for the best garden games to entertain the kids? The British summer might be hard to predict, but fun in the sun is always guaranteed if you have plenty of garden toys and games to keep the family entertained. Whether you are having family round for a (social distanced) barbecue, or just need to keep the kids busy while you crack on with some gardening, we have found plenty of garden games to get everyone outside.
These aren't just for the kids though – our choices are suitable for all ages and some carry a nostalgia kick for the adults. What's more, lots of them are portable, so take them with you for a picnic or a day at the park. So read on to see our top choices of the best garden games, then for more garden deals check out our garden furniture sales to get staycation ready.
The best garden games
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Everyone loves Jenga: it is a game that has provided generation after generation with fun. And this giant version only makes it better. You’ll get blocks that tower over 3ft tall but it's still lightweight and suitable for children to play with safely, and also makes it great fun for the adults too. It comes in a handy carry bag so you can store it away when not in use, and you could even use this game indoors during the winter.
You can really get your guests involved at your next garden party with this giant game of chess. Whether it’s one on one or a team effort, this strategy game is a well-loved favourite among many. The chess pieces measure up to about 64cm but are lightweight and easy to move by all ages. The mat is not included, but as the pieces are weatherproof you could make it part of your garden design with a chess board section of paving!
These wooden bats with two balls are beautifully handcrafted and are perfect for hours of fun in the garden or at the beach. They are finished with a hard-wearing resin which makes them weather resistant and means they will wear well over time. The neoprene grip makes them easy to hold and swing with and they come in a few different distinct designs.
Table tennis can get extremely competitive, so what better form of entertainment at your next BBQ than this outdoor table tennis table. With four bats and three balls, you can have a few people playing at a time for a super-fast paced game. The table is height adjustable on all four legs, so you can ensure the table is level on the grass, and it has wheels to make it easy to manoeuvre.
Rounders is the ultimate bat and ball game and is perfect for summer entertainment. This is a premium set that includes everything you need – four bats, two balls, four posts and bases and two rubber mats to make you feel like a pro. Set up in your garden or take to the beach in the handy carry case. Users say it’s great quality and wears well with summer use.
Swingball is a great way to get the kids outdoors even if they’re on their own. This new version of the game now comes with a base that you can pack the game away into so you can take it anywhere and store it compactly. Whether playing on your own or with a partner, this classic bat and ball game can become easily competitive so it’s a great game to get out at garden parties and BBQs. Users say the base is sturdy and the bats feel of good quality.
Twister is the ultimate party game and you can now take it outdoors as a garden game too. Whether you’re off on a picnic or simply catching rays in your garden, you can instantly liven up the party with this Twister mat blanket. It’s got a fully waterproof backing so it won’t get soggy and it comes with all the regular game pieces you need. It’s a great novelty product that is functional as well as fun. It rolls up small with carry handles for easy transportation.
We have the best picnic blankets for you choose from in our buyer's guide.
Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use (we suggest outdoor for the sake of your home decor, and sanity), this inflatable wheel is designed for kids to climb through or roll around in, and it has colourful balls inside that bounce around. It also comes with a pump included and is easy to set up. Heaps of fun is almost guaranteed, especially if your garden's on a slope, and the neighbour's kids are bound to be jealous.
What is the best garden game?
Best places to buy garden games
We think the most versatile option is the Jaques of London Giant Tumble Tower. It can be played by 2 or more players so a great choice for gatherings big and small. It also comes with a bag to take on holiday or for a day out at a local park.
Team games such as the are perfect for big gardens and big get togethers – or for family days out – and allow everyone to get involved. If you are super competitive then you might want to invite your mates round for a table tennis tournament on the – you just need the space (and the budget).
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