Games at The Hop Garden

Games at The Hop Garden is back at The Hop Garden on Tuesday 20 October, part of a regular Tuesday night run that keeps going until 31 December. It's a board games session run by the Board & Card Game Enthusiasts, Birmingham & West Midlands group, and if you're new to the scene, it's a good place to start. The whole thing is hosted by Andy Hopwood, an award-winning games designer who acts as resident expert, welcoming newcomers and helping people get started with whatever they're playing.

The setup is straightforward: plenty of tables, good lighting, and ales on tap. It's a social night rather than a tournament, so you can turn up and find a game to join or bring your own and get a group together. With Hopwood on hand to explain the rules, it works just as well if you've never played a modern board game before as it does if you've got a shelf full of them at home.

One thing to keep in mind is that The Hop Garden is an old building and isn't wheelchair friendly. If that's a factor for you, it's worth knowing before you head over.

As for the timing, the official session starts at 18:30, but attendees are welcome from 17:00, so you can arrive early and settle in before the main crowd. Staff go home at 22:30, and since it runs every Tuesday through to the end of the year, you don't have to worry about missing out if this particular week doesn't suit. It's free to play, though you're asked to buy your drinks from the venue. You'll find it at 19 Metchley Lane, Harborne, B17 0HT.