Finding the right interactive entertainment is crucial for any successful corporate gathering, brand activation, or private celebration. Outdoor garden games offer a timeless and universally appealing solution, encouraging networking and creating memorable moments. They break the ice naturally, transforming any lawn or open space into a hub of friendly competition and engagement. From classic lawn sports to giant, modern twists on familiar favourites, the right game can significantly enhance the guest experience. To get more ideas for exciting outdoor activities, consider exploring some unforgettable games to play at a park for additional inspiration.
But not all games, or their suppliers, are created equal. The perfect choice depends entirely on your audience, available space, and specific objectives. Are you sourcing durable, brandable assets for a national roadshow, or do you need elegant, classic sets for an exclusive VIP reception? The distinction is key to a successful event.
This comprehensive guide dives deep into the seven best suppliers for outdoor garden games in the UK. We analyse each one for their strengths in quality, variety, and suitability for high-impact events. We'll explore which retailers excel in providing robust, event-ready equipment versus those ideal for budget-friendly, one-off occasions. Our goal is to provide clear, actionable insights, helping you make an informed purchasing decision that aligns perfectly with your event goals and delivers maximum return on investment. Each entry includes direct links and key details to simplify your planning process.
1. Argos – Lawn Games
For event planners and private hosts who need reliable, fast, and budget-friendly solutions, Argos stands out as a high-street staple for sourcing classic outdoor garden games. Its key advantage lies in accessibility and speed. With real-time stock information available online and a vast network of stores offering Click & Collect, it’s an ideal choice for last-minute additions or for securing multiple game sets without long delivery waits.
The platform is particularly well-suited for informal corporate fun days, family parties, and community events where the goal is straightforward, classic entertainment. The selection covers all the essentials, from giant Jenga and Connect 4 to boules, croquet, and rounders sets. While it may lack the premium, tournament-grade equipment found at specialist retailers, its range is more than sufficient for adding a layer of interactive fun to any casual gathering.
Key Features and Offerings
The Argos website simplifies the purchasing process with user-friendly filters for price, age suitability, and customer rating. This makes it easy to quickly find games appropriate for different demographics. A significant benefit is the regular promotional activity, including seasonal sales and multi-buy offers, allowing for cost-effective bulk purchases. For those planning larger events, consider exploring some more sophisticated outdoor party games for adults to complement the classic options available here.
Pro Tip: Check the Argos website during seasonal changes (e.g., end of summer) for significant clearance discounts on garden games. This is an excellent opportunity to stock up on equipment for future events at a fraction of the usual cost.
Practical Insights for Event Planners
| Feature | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Click & Collect | Last-minute event needs and urgent replacements. | Stock levels can vary by location; always check your local store's availability online first. |
| Broad SKU Range | Sourcing multiple, varied games from a single supplier. | Limited options for high-end, branded, or bespoke game sets. |
| Regular Promotions | Planners on a tight budget or making bulk purchases. | Top-tier brands are often excluded from major sales events. |
| Editorial Hub | Quick inspiration and finding popular, crowd-pleasing games. | The content is consumer-focused and may lack corporate event-specific insights. |
Ultimately, Argos excels in convenience and value. It’s the go-to option when you need to quickly and affordably equip an event with a variety of familiar and beloved garden games that guarantee simple, accessible fun for a wide audience.
Website: https://www.argos.co.uk/browse/toys/outdoor-toys-and-activities/lawn-games/c:42621/
2. Smyths Toys – Garden Games & Accessories
For event organisers focusing on family-friendly entertainment or creating dedicated children's zones, Smyths Toys offers a robust and competitively priced selection of outdoor garden games. Its main strength lies in providing excellent value and rapid fulfilment, making it a reliable choice for sourcing engaging, family-oriented activities. With strong delivery incentives and a fast Click & Collect service, it’s perfect for adding last-minute entertainment to family fun days or corporate events with children in attendance.
The platform is ideally suited for events where the primary audience includes children and families, such as community festivals, school fairs, or the family area of a corporate summer party. The inventory features a wide array of jumbo-sized classics like 4-in-a-row and tumbling towers, alongside accessible activity sets such as archery and swingball. While it may not offer the premium, heritage-style wooden sets found at specialist suppliers, its range provides more than enough variety to build an exciting and interactive play area for younger guests.
Key Features and Offerings
The Smyths Toys website is designed for a smooth user experience, allowing planners to quickly find popular items by sorting by "Bestsellers" or filtering by price. This functionality is particularly useful for identifying crowd-pleasing games that offer proven appeal. A key advantage is the clear and shopper-friendly delivery system, with free delivery on orders over £20 and next-day options available, simplifying budget management and logistical planning for events.
Pro Tip: Use the "Bestsellers" filter on the Smyths Toys website to instantly identify the most popular and highly-rated games. This is a quick way to ensure you're choosing activities with a high probability of engagement for a family audience.
Practical Insights for Event Planners
| Feature | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Family-Friendly SKUs | Creating children’s zones at corporate events or for family fun days. | The range is less focused on adult or premium, heavy-duty game sets. |
| Delivery Incentives | Planners needing cost-effective, bulk purchasing and fast turnaround. | Stock for next-day delivery can be limited on high-demand items during peak season. |
| Fast Click & Collect | Securing games at very short notice for local events. | Availability is store-dependent; check online for local stock levels before travelling. |
| Competitive Pricing | Maximising entertainment value on a limited budget. | Fewer high-end timber or event-grade options are available compared to specialist retailers. |
In summary, Smyths Toys is an excellent resource for sourcing affordable and appealing outdoor garden games tailored to a family audience. Its combination of value, speed, and a well-curated selection of popular children's activities makes it a go-to for planners looking to create a vibrant and fun-filled family zone at any event.
Website: https://www.smythstoys.com/uk/en-gb/outdoor/garden-games-and-accessories/c/SM060312
3. Robert Dyas – Garden Games
For event organisers needing a diverse mix of both classic and contemporary games from a single, reliable retailer, Robert Dyas offers a comprehensive online hub for outdoor garden games. Its main strength is the sheer breadth of its catalogue, which combines traditional garden staples with modern party games and giant versions, all sourced from various third-party brands. This makes it a one-stop-shop for curating a varied entertainment package for any event.
The platform is ideal for planners looking to purchase a complete set of games for recurring use, such as at a venue or for a summer-long series of corporate family days. With over 180 different game SKUs, the selection ranges from familiar croquet sets and giant chess to more active options like spikeball and badminton. The availability of multi-item bundles simplifies the process of outfitting an event with several complementary activities, providing both variety and value.
Key Features and Offerings
The Robert Dyas website enhances the shopping experience with dedicated pages for ‘Garden Games on Offer’ and ‘Bundles’, allowing budget-conscious planners to find deals easily. Filters for specific brands like Bex, COSTWAY, and Toyrific help narrow down choices based on preferred quality or price point. A key advantage for last-minute planning is the clear flagging of items eligible for next-day delivery, ensuring tight deadlines can be met without compromising on game selection.
Pro Tip: Use the brand filters to isolate higher-quality options. Brands like Bex often offer more durable, wooden sets suitable for repeated corporate use, whereas other brands may be better for one-off private parties. Always read the product specifications and customer reviews to gauge material quality.
Practical Insights for Event Planners
| Feature | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 180+ SKU Range | Building a diverse and comprehensive games inventory for a venue or event series. | Quality can be inconsistent across different third-party brands; checking reviews is essential. |
| Dedicated 'Bundles' Page | Cost-effective purchasing of multiple games for a large-scale event. | Bundles are pre-selected and may include items that are not perfectly suited to your specific needs. |
| Next-Day Delivery Flags | Securing a wide variety of games quickly for events with short lead times. | Availability is not guaranteed for all items and is dependent on stock levels and location. |
| Brand Filtering | Sourcing games that meet specific quality standards or price points. | The range of premium or tournament-grade equipment is limited compared to specialist suppliers. |
Ultimately, Robert Dyas excels in variety and convenience, serving as an excellent resource for planners who need to buy a wide array of outdoor garden games from one place. It successfully bridges the gap between budget-friendly options and more robust, brand-name sets.
Website: https://www.robertdyas.co.uk/outdoor-living/outdoor-play/garden-games
4. Big Game Hunters – Outdoor Garden Toys & Games
For event planners seeking high-quality, durable, and visually impressive games, Big Game Hunters is a specialist retailer that excels. It focuses on in-house designed outdoor garden games, particularly robust timber builds in giant formats that are made for repeated event use. The key advantage here is quality and presentation; these games are crafted to withstand the rigours of corporate events and parties while also looking fantastic in photos.
This platform is ideal for brand activations, company fun days, and private celebrations where durability and aesthetic appeal are paramount. The selection is a curated collection of classic British lawn games like croquet, skittles, and quoits, alongside oversized favourites such as jumbo Hi-Tower (their take on Jenga) and giant 4-in-a-Row. While the catalogue is more focused than mass-market retailers, every item is designed with longevity in mind, making it a sound investment for frequent hosts.
Key Features and Offerings
The Big Game Hunters website provides a specialist shopping experience with a deep category dedicated solely to garden games. Clear pricing, customer reviews, and frequent sale prices on hero products like their cornhole sets and giant chess make it easy to identify popular, well-regarded options. Their focus on classic games in large formats provides a nostalgic yet impactful form of entertainment that requires minimal explanation for guests. For organisers looking to build a truly memorable activity roster, pairing these classics with more modern options can create a well-rounded experience; explore some unique event entertainment ideas to find the perfect mix.
Pro Tip: When purchasing wooden games like Hi-Tower or croquet sets, look for those sold with a canvas carry bag. This not only simplifies transport and storage but also protects the equipment, significantly extending its lifespan for future events.
Practical Insights for Event Planners
| Feature | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist In-House Designs | Events where quality, durability, and aesthetics are a priority. | Premium timber builds come with a higher price point than mass-market plastic alternatives. |
| Focus on Giant/Traditional Games | Creating high-impact, photogenic activity zones. | The product range is less diverse, with fewer modern or electronic game options available. |
| Robust Timber Builds | Frequent use at multiple events, hire companies, and venues. | Wooden games are heavier and require more storage space than their compact counterparts. |
| Clear Website Categorisation | Quickly sourcing specific classic lawn games like boules or skittles. | Stock levels on sale items can fluctuate, so plan purchases ahead of key seasonal dates. |
Ultimately, Big Game Hunters is the premier choice for investing in a reliable inventory of classic outdoor garden games. It’s perfect for planners who value longevity and presentation, ensuring their event entertainment not only functions perfectly but also enhances the overall atmosphere.
Website: https://www.biggamehunters.co.uk/collections/garden-games
5. Jaques of London – Heritage Lawn Games
For event organisers and brands seeking to cultivate an atmosphere of prestige and classic British elegance, Jaques of London is the definitive source for premium outdoor garden games. As the historic inventors of croquet, their key advantage lies in heritage and superior craftsmanship. This platform is the ideal choice for VIP hospitality events, luxury brand activations, and private functions where the quality of the equipment reflects the high standards of the host.
The platform is perfectly suited for sophisticated garden parties, corporate retreats at country manors, or as a distinguished feature at a wedding reception. The selection is anchored by their world-renowned croquet sets, but also includes beautifully made boules, quoits, and giant tumbling towers. While the price point is significantly higher than mass-market retailers, the investment translates into durable, hand-finished products that serve as elegant props and provide a superior playing experience, enhancing the overall event aesthetic.
Key Features and Offerings
The Jaques of London website provides a premium user experience, with detailed product specifications, clear warranty information, and an emphasis on the high-quality materials used, such as sustainable wood. This direct-from-the-maker approach instils confidence in the longevity of the purchase. A significant benefit for planners is the brand's heritage itself; featuring a Jaques of London game set can be a talking point that subtly communicates quality and a commitment to tradition.
Pro Tip: For a truly premium activation, consider purchasing a personalised game set. Jaques of London offers engraving services on some products, allowing for corporate branding or bespoke messaging that creates a lasting, high-value takeaway for clients or guests.
Practical Insights for Event Planners
| Feature | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage Brand Appeal | Luxury brand activations, VIP hospitality, and high-end private events. | The premium price point may not be justifiable for events with tight budgets or where games may face rough use. |
| Superior Craftsmanship | Long-term investment for venues or planners who frequently use garden games. | The range is focused on traditional games; fewer novelty or modern electronic options are available. |
| Direct-from-Maker Info | Planners needing detailed specifications, material sourcing, and warranty details. | Limited promotional activity or bulk-buy discounts compared to high-street retailers. |
| Premium Materials | Events where aesthetic and tactile quality are paramount to the guest experience. | Heavier and requires more careful storage and handling to maintain condition compared to plastic alternatives. |
Ultimately, Jaques of London excels in quality and prestige. It is the go-to supplier when the event demands more than just a game, but a piece of sporting heritage that elevates the guest experience and reflects a commitment to excellence.
Website: https://www.jaqueslondon.co.uk/
6. Uber Games – Quality Garden & Indoor Games
For event professionals seeking durable, high-quality outdoor garden games built to withstand repeated use, Uber Games is a specialist supplier that prioritises robust construction. It caters directly to the corporate and events market by offering sturdy, event-ready pieces like giant Connect 4 (or 4-in-a-row), regulation-spec cornhole boards, and large-scale chess sets. The brand’s focus is on longevity and performance, making it a sound investment for companies that frequently use games for activations, team-building days, or campus events.
Unlike mass-market retailers, Uber Games provides products designed for more than just occasional backyard fun. The materials are often heavier, the finishes more resilient, and the designs more classic, ensuring they look professional at any event. The availability of replaceable parts for many of their flagship products is a significant advantage for event hire companies or venues, extending the lifespan of their inventory and ensuring a better return on investment.
Key Features and Offerings
The Uber Games website is clear and functional, with transparent ‘From £’ pricing and stock levels visible directly on the product listings, which simplifies procurement. Their collection of giant and oversized games is a key differentiator, providing high-impact visual attractions that draw in crowds. For planners organising larger activations or looking to resell, the platform offers specific information on trade accounts and bulk purchasing, streamlining the process for business-to-business transactions.
Pro Tip: Look for their double cornhole board sets. These provide everything needed for a full-scale game, are built to World Cornhole League (WCL) specifications, and are perfect for creating a competitive zone at corporate sports days or brand activations.
Practical Insights for Event Planners
| Feature | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Durable, Quality Builds | Repeated use at corporate events, venue inventory, and hire companies. | Higher initial purchase price compared to budget-friendly alternatives. |
| Specialist & Giant Games | Creating high-impact, visually engaging activity zones. | The overall product catalogue is more curated and smaller than large retailers. |
| Trade/Bulk Arrangements | Planners and businesses making large or repeat purchases. | Fewer low-cost options for events with extremely tight budgets. |
| Replaceable Parts | Maximising the lifespan of game assets and ensuring long-term value. | Not all products have spare parts available; check individual listings. |
Ultimately, Uber Games fills a crucial gap in the market for reliable and professional-grade garden games. It is the ideal supplier when durability, aesthetics, and performance are more important than the lowest possible price point, ensuring your event equipment is both engaging and built to last.
Website: https://www.ubergames.co.uk/
7. Decathlon UK – Garden Games and Outdoor Play
For event planners seeking to create dynamic, activity-focused outdoor zones, Decathlon UK offers a unique proposition. As a sports mega-retailer, its strength lies not just in a curated selection of outdoor garden games but in its vast inventory of adjacent sporting equipment. This makes it an invaluable resource for building multi-activity areas that go beyond traditional lawn games, incorporating elements of casual sport and active play.
Decathlon is the ideal choice for corporate wellness days, family-focused events, and community festivals where encouraging movement and participation is a key objective. Its range includes accessible favourites like pétanque, croquet, and roundnet, alongside agility gear, soft archery sets, and various balls and rackets. This allows planners to easily source and combine equipment to create bespoke activity stations or mini-sports days on a budget. While it may not offer the premium, handcrafted giant games of specialist suppliers, its value-driven, sport-centric approach is perfect for energetic, interactive events.
Key Features and Offerings
The Decathlon website provides a straightforward user experience, clearly distinguishing between its own affordable in-house brands (like Geologic for pétanque) and third-party marketplace sellers. Its nationwide network of large-format stores is a significant advantage, offering the chance to see products first-hand or use their convenient click-and-collect service. For planners organising events for all ages, the platform’s focus on sport makes it easy to find suitable activities; for more ideas, explore these fun activities for a family day that pair well with Decathlon's offerings.
Pro Tip: Look beyond the "Garden Games" category. Explore sections like "Archery," "Racket Sports," and "Team Sports" to find versatile equipment like soft-tip arrows, portable badminton nets, and marker cones that can be creatively repurposed for unique event activities.
Practical Insights for Event Planners
| Feature | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Sports Range | Creating multi-activity zones and mini-sports days. | Fewer traditional 'giant' game options (e.g., giant chess, giant Jenga). |
| Value-Priced Own Brands | Budget-conscious planners and bulk equipment purchases. | The aesthetic is more functional and sporty than decorative or premium. |
| In-Store Experience | Assessing equipment quality and size before purchasing. | Stock can be concentrated in out-of-town retail parks, requiring travel. |
| Marketplace Sellers | Broadening the selection beyond Decathlon's core range. | Be mindful of different delivery times and costs from third-party sellers. |
Ultimately, Decathlon UK excels in providing affordable, functional, and sport-oriented equipment that empowers planners to build engaging and active event experiences. It’s the go-to platform when the goal is to get guests moving with a diverse mix of accessible and fun sporting challenges.
Website: https://www.decathlon.co.uk/vc/garden-games
Outdoor Garden Games — 7-Brand Comparison
| Supplier | Implementation Complexity 🔄 | Resource Requirements ⚡ | Expected Outcomes 📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argos – Lawn Games | Low — simple purchase & rapid delivery | Low–Medium budget; nationwide click‑&‑collect/home delivery | Fast fulfilment; broad SKU coverage for last‑minute needs | Family parties; quick multi‑SKU orders; seasonal events | Reliable availability; frequent promotions; editorial picks |
| Smyths Toys – Garden Games & Accessories | Low — straightforward ordering, fast pick‑up options | Low budget; free‑delivery threshold; family‑focused stock | Quick turnaround; good value for volume buys | Last‑minute extras; child‑centric activity zones | Competitive pricing; large family‑oriented assortment |
| Robert Dyas – Garden Games | Low–Medium — mix of brands; check specs/reviews | Medium budget; many SKUs with next‑day flags on some | Wide breadth including traditional & giant formats | Party bundles; mixed event inventories | Strong range; curated bundles and regular deals |
| Big Game Hunters – Outdoor Garden Toys & Games | Medium — specialist timber options, bigger items to manage | Higher budget; storage and transport for large timber pieces | Durable, photo‑ready giant games built for repeat use | Corporate events, festivals, hire companies | High‑quality timber builds; event durability and presentation |
| Jaques of London – Heritage Lawn Games | Medium — premium lead times; warranty/packing checks | High budget; premium handling and long‑term care | Heritage finish; premium guest experience and longevity | VIP activations, hospitality, gifting | Craftsmanship; long warranties; brand prestige |
| Uber Games – Quality Garden & Indoor Games | Medium — trade/bulk ordering; specification checks | Medium–High budget; trade pricing and parts inventory | Event‑ready durable sets with replaceable parts | Corporate/campus reuse; event hire operators | Robust construction; replaceable parts; trade support |
| Decathlon UK – Garden Games and Outdoor Play | Low — sport‑focused selections; in‑store try & collect | Low budget; easy to combine with other sport gear | Budget‑friendly, sport‑oriented activity zones | Multi‑activity family days; sports‑focused events | Value pricing; easy gear combination; nationwide stores |
Choosing the Right Games and Partner for Maximum Impact
You've explored a fantastic array of retailers, from the accessible family fun at Smyths Toys to the heritage craftsmanship of Jaques of London. Each offers a unique catalogue of outdoor garden games perfectly suited for adding a touch of classic entertainment to any gathering. We've delved into giant chess, croquet, boules, and countless other options that can transform a simple garden or event space into a vibrant hub of activity and friendly competition.
The journey, however, doesn't end with a shopping basket. The true success of incorporating these activities into your event lies in strategic selection and flawless execution. Moving from a simple purchase to creating a truly memorable and impactful experience requires careful consideration of your specific goals, audience, and logistical capabilities.
From Purchase to Perfect Execution: Key Considerations
Choosing the right game is about more than just personal preference. It's about aligning the activity with the core objectives of your event. Before finalising your choices, reflect on these critical factors:
- Audience Demographics: Who are you entertaining? A high-energy game like Spikeball might be perfect for a young, active group at a corporate fun day, whereas a more relaxed, strategic game like croquet or giant chess would better suit a sophisticated networking garden party.
- Event Objectives: What is your desired outcome? If the goal is team building, opt for collaborative games. For brand activations, select games that can be easily customised with your company's colours and logos. For a private party, focus on games that are inclusive and easy for all ages to enjoy together.
- Space and Logistics: Realistically assess your venue. Do you have the flat, manicured lawn required for a proper game of croquet? Is there enough open space for a lively round of rounders without endangering guests or property? Consider setup time, pack-down requirements, and storage if you are purchasing the games yourself.
- Safety and Supervision: While generally low-risk, some outdoor garden games require a level of supervision, especially with mixed age groups or when alcohol is being served. Ensure you have clear rules and a safe playing area to prevent any mishaps.
The Value of a Specialist Partner for High-Stakes Events
While purchasing games from the excellent retailers we've featured is a brilliant solution for frequent, informal use, high-stakes corporate events, brand activations, and large-scale private functions often demand a more polished, comprehensive approach. This is where partnering with an experienced event provider like PSW Events becomes a strategic advantage.
A managed solution elevates your event from a simple gathering to a seamless, professional experience. Consider the benefits:
- Flawless Logistics: We handle delivery, professional installation, and removal, eliminating any logistical headaches for you and your team.
- Expert Staffing: Our trained and engaging staff can manage the games, encourage participation, explain the rules, and ensure everything runs smoothly and safely.
- Custom Branding: We can transform standard games into powerful marketing tools with bespoke branding, from custom-coloured croquet mallets to branded cornhole boards, reinforcing your message at every turn.
- Integrated Entertainment Zones: Our true expertise lies in creating dynamic entertainment packages. We can pair classic outdoor garden games with our cutting-edge sports simulators, F1 racing rigs, and other interactive attractions. Imagine a "Classic vs. Modern" zone where guests can move from a heritage lawn game to a high-tech golf simulator, offering something for every taste and energy level.
By entrusting the entertainment to a specialist, you free yourself up to focus on what truly matters: your guests, your clients, and your core event objectives. We don't just provide games; we provide experiences that captivate audiences and deliver measurable returns.
Ready to create an unforgettable outdoor event? Contact our team today to discuss a tailored entertainment package that will leave a lasting impression.