Discover Our Pubs with Pool Tables at Belhaven

A brief history of pool tables in pubs

You might not realise quite how far back the history of pool goes. This humble pastime can trace its origins to a lawn game that was popularised in the 15th Century. Pool's predecessor was similar to croquet, and today the grassy lawns that once hosted these games are reflected in the green baize fabric that covers modern pool tables.  

Moving the original game indoors meant that the playing area became smaller, and playing was no longer restricted to the fair spring and summer seasons. These days, we get to play pool all year round from the comfort of our favourite pubs with pool tables, whatever the weather.  

Pool is so popular in modern times that there are around 5.2 million people playing weekly in the UK, with over two million of those being regular players with a real passion for the game. It has made its mark in popular culture, featuring in cinema storylines from The Hustler and Poolhall Junkies, and the music of greats such as Rod Stewart and Tom Waits.  

Pool tables are generally something we don't have in our own homes due to their size, so the pub has become their natural home. Few things are as enjoyable as being able to play pool with friends and sip on a freshly poured and frosty pint. In fact, we'd go as far as to say that this is a well-loved piece of pub tradition up and down the UK!