This is a sponsored article on behalf of Jack & Boule.
It's official — boules has become cool.
In recent years, more and more Londoners have discovered the charms of the game once synonymous with pastis-sipping French pensioners (though that association always sounded pretty chic to us, frankly). Namely, that it's a super-social sport which is high octane-ish yet non-sweaty. AND you can partake in it with a beverage (or burger, or burrito) in hand.
So, naturally, the capital needed a hip new activity bar dedicated to it. That's where Jack & Boule comes in.
Located in the heart of South Bank, just two minutes from Waterloo station, this brand spanking new venue boasts eight boules courts, two bars, and a couple of top tier street food vendors. It's predominantly an open air affair, with al fresco courts and seating for French Riviera vibes, but there are also covered areas, in case the weather doesn't quite live up to the Côte d'Azur.
The bar itself is free entry, but to get the full Jack & Boule experience, you'll want to nab yourself one of those courts (pre-booking is recommended!) Prices start at £25 to reserve for a 55 minute session, which comfortably accommodates 2-6 players — making it a great-value shout for date night, birthdays, and stag/hen dos. You can even hire the whole venue, if you're planning a really big blow-out!
For those not au fait with boules, the aim of the game is simply to get your boules closer to the jack than your opponent's, either by 'pointing' your boule to as near as possible to the jack, or by using your boule to 'shoot' your opponent's one out of the way. Despite its sedate reputation, it can get surprisingly competitive and, whatever the outcome of the game, we're betting you'll be sorely tempted to book a rematch, stat.
Of course, all that throwing is thirsty work — and luckily, Jack & Boule has a parfait drinks offering. Head to the shipping container bar for cocktails, mocktails and a range of beers Siren Craft Brews, including a special Jack & Boule lager. Or make a beeline for the Bubbles Bar, which serves up spritzes, champagne and prosecco.
As for the food? Enjoy burgers, fries, and croquettes courtesy of Nanny Bill's, or opt for Mexican with Rico Burrito. Visit on the weekend, and you can take advantage of a rather tempting bottomless brunch offer — your choice of burrito, bowl, quesadilla or soft shell tacos, plus two hours (!) of bottomless prosecco or beer for just £30 a pop. What's more, you can add a game of boules to your booking for just a fiver each!
Talking of bargains, did we mention that we've also nabbed you a cracking discount on Jack & Boules court bookings? Simply enter the code LONDONIST50 at checkout for 50% off. Remember, each booking can accommodate up to six players, which means with our code you could end up paying just over £2 per head!
Go on, the boule's in your court. Book your session today.
Find Jack & Boule at 101 Upper Ground, just behind the National Theatre in the South Bank area. Open 11am-11pm, Tuesday-Sunday.
