Games table is where the party's at

FOOD? Not for me. Presents? If you are a child or have the money to embrace the joy of giving. Seeing loved ones? Well, yes, in the right context. But for me, the best thing about Christmas is pitting your wits or your skills with those closest to you, by engaging in some games.

- ANDY PHILLIPS

 

When else do you get the chance to get everyone around a table with a pack of cards or a game board? Summer holidays are great for those with lots of energy, but the sports pitch or the swimming pool can end up excluding older family members or those with less mobility. Instead, the games table is the place where everyone can gather and enjoy a few light-hearted pastimes together.

While children can be bored of the endless chit-chat of the grown-ups, and end up retreating into further investigation of their gifts, games are something which involve everyone's focus, and provide plenty of fun.

I can - and will recommend a few here, and inevitably it seems to be the simplest ideas which are the best. Games that involve a deck of playing cards or some dice often end up being the most fun, providing as many laughs as they do thrills.