Board games are not just for Christmas! That’s the message from a popular independent book shop in Urmston that’s created a vibrant community around tabletop fun.
Urmston Books and Board Games is helping families and groups of friends to relax and enjoy themselves away from screens, via an open invitation to drop in, set up a board and play – while enjoying a cuppa and a snack.
The shop on Flixton Road also continues to hold author events and sessions in schools to spark new interest in books, as the UK embarks on its National Year of Reading.
Jo Wozencroft, pictured, has run the shop since October 2024 and has just under 200 games ready and waiting on the shelves. She said:
“We try to be a screen-free zone. This is particularly welcome at this time of year when people are setting themselves new year resolutions to limit time on their smartphones and in front of the television.
“We’d love to see more people playing board games all year round. They are great for fun and relaxation, for generations to get together, they spark conversation and they challenge our thinking.”
Jo continued:
“Some board game cafes can be more for serious hobbyists but we pride ourselves on being a particularly family-friendly space. We have everything from games aimed at younger children like Outfoxed to more complex strategic games like A Feast for Odin, as well as nostalgic classics such as Kerplunk, Battleships and Cluedo.”
Urmston Books and Board Games, which also runs a monthly board game club, is part of the town’s thriving retail and leisure offer, contributing to its growing reputation as a destination of choice to shop, eat and drink, and spend time.
As part of this scene, Urmston Library is another great place for readers – and board game fans, as there is space to play, and a range of games on offer there too, plus a Scrabble Club on Monday afternoons from 2pm to 4pm.
The town’s varied attractions tie in with the Council’s priorities to facilitate high-quality culture and leisure for all, a great start in life for children, healthy and independent lives for residents and a thriving economy.
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration said:
“Trafford is known for its great town centres and the business community of Urmston certainly gives residents and visitors plenty of reasons to stop by – and stay for the whole day, and maybe the evening too!
“We know that time away from screens, and with friends and family, is a great way to boost our wellbeing, and make the most of our leisure time, and traders like Urmston Books are providing attractive surroundings and enticing activities to help people do just that.”