The ultimate guide on how to play pool
Looking to learn how to play pool or just want to brush up before your next trip to the pool table? You’re in the right place.
Whether you’re potting your first ball or fine-tuning your cue skills, this easy-to-follow guide will walk you through everything from the basic rules to the different types of pool table games you can enjoy with friends or family.
Let’s break it down – no trick shots required.
What is Pool?
Pool (also known as billiards pool) is a classic cue sport played on a felt-covered table with pockets. The aim? To pot balls into the pockets using a cue stick, following the rules of the game you’re playing, whether that’s 8-ball, 9-ball or something more casual.
It’s one of the most popular pool table games around – great for a bit of friendly competition, a date night or some family fun.
How Many Balls Are on the Pool Table?
Let’s start with a common question: how many balls are on the pool table?
In a standard game of 8-ball pool, you’ll have:
● 15 object balls (numbered 1 to 15)
● 1 cue ball (white)
That’s 16 balls in total. In 9-ball pool, it’s even simpler – just balls numbered 1 to 9 and the cue ball. Different games use different sets, which we’ll explain later on.
How to Play Pool: The Basics
Here’s how to get started with a standard game of 8-ball pool, the most common version played in the UK:
● Rack the Balls: Use a triangle rack to arrange the 15 coloured balls at one end of the table, with the 8-ball in the centre.
● Break: One player hits the cue ball to break the triangle. If a ball is potted, that player continues.
● Pick Your Group: After the break, players are either ‘solids’ (balls 1–7) or ‘stripes’ (balls 9–15), depending on what they pot first.
● Pot Your Balls: Take turns to pot all of your group’s balls. You must hit your own group first in each shot.
● The 8-Ball: Once all your balls are cleared, pot the black 8-ball to win – but only into the pocket you’ve declared.
Top Tip: You must pot the 8-ball cleanly at the end – sink it too early and you lose the game!
Different Types of Pool Table Games To Try
Looking to mix things up? There are lots of different games to play on a pool table, making it a great choice for family nights, date nights, or rainy day fun.
Here are a few popular options:
● 8-Ball Pool – The classic game, great for all levels
● 9-Ball Pool – Faster-paced, perfect for two
● Cutthroat – A fun three-player game where everyone tries to eliminate the others’ balls
● Killer Pool – Great for groups! Each player gets “lives” and loses one when they miss
● Rotation – Players must pot balls in numerical order – ideal for strategy lovers
Tips for Beginners: How to Get Better at Pool
Whether you’re picking up a cue for the first time or just looking to sharpen your skills, everyone has to start somewhere.
Pool is easy to learn, fun to play and incredibly satisfying once you start sinking those shots. Below are some simple tips to help beginners build confidence, improve technique and enjoy the game even more
Get Your Stance Right
A solid stance sets the tone for every shot. Keep your feet about shoulder-width apart, distribute your weight evenly, and bend slightly at the hips for better control. The more stable you feel, the more confident and accurate your shots will be.
Focus on Aim
It’s not just about power, aim is everything. Keep your eyes on the contact point between the cue ball and your target ball. Visualising the angle before taking your shot can make a big difference. And don’t be afraid to take your time; accuracy improves with practice.
Chalk Up
Before each shot, give your cue tip a quick rub with chalk. This helps prevent the cue from slipping off the ball too soon, especially on tricky shots. It’s a small habit that makes a big impact, and you’ll often see the pros do it for a reason.
Practice Cue Ball Control
Learning how the cue ball reacts after impact can take your game to the next level. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to stop it dead, make it follow through, or even spin it backwards. Cue ball control helps you line up your next shot and stay one step ahead.
Keep It Friendly
Above all, pool is meant to be fun. Whether you’re nailing every shot or still finding your rhythm, enjoy the game and keep things light-hearted. Cheer each other on, celebrate great plays, and remember, even a close loss can be a great game.
Play Pool at Hollywood Bowl
Now you know how to play pool, why not give it a go in one of our vibrant, family-friendly centres? With comfy seating, tasty food, and arcade games to enjoy too, it’s the perfect way to level up your spare time, rain or shine.
Looking for more games to try? We’ve got bowling (of course!), amusements, putt & play and tasty food and drinks to keep everyone happy.
