Looking for games to play in your garden? Wanting a way to entertain the kids (or big kids!) through the summer months? You need some giant lawn games! Not only can giant lawn games be a great way to get the family together but they can also be a real talking point of the garden!
You may be wondering why you need GIANT lawn games – but you can play with all the average sized games when you are stuck inside over winter. If you are outdoors then you may as well make the most of the space that you have available! Here are some of the favourite options that we found…
Best Garden Chess Set
- Perfect for playing outside or indoors, pieces are weatherproof and can withstand lots of use
- Plastic chess pieces measure from 20cm (pawn) to 31cm (king), all have a base diameter of 11cm
- New for 2020 – Chess pieces are stronger and heavier. The 120cm square playing mat is thicker which allows it to stay flat without creasing
- The set comes complete with a large cotton carry bag making the game portable and easy to store, pieces won’t go astray
- This garden game is a great way to introduce Chess to younger players. It will teach them to use strategy, skill and patience. Quick to set up and fun to play, this game can be played one on one or in teams
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
In A Hurry?
If the sunshine has jumped out at you and taken you by surprise, or maybe you are just fed up with your children saying they are bored. Whatever your reason, if you are in a hurry then keep reading. We’ve compiled all the essential information that you need to know NOW.
Games
There are SO many different giant lawn games to choose from, it really comes down to personal preference. Here are some of the games that you can choose from…
- Chess
- Checkers
- Dominoes
- Snakes and ladders
- Hi-tower
- Darts
- Quoits
- 4 in a row
- Bowling
- Cup pong
It is worth thinking about the age of the people that are going to play the game. Does the game need to be suited to young children, the whole family, or is it actually more for the adults than anyone else? Most games will have an advisory age on them to give you an idea of whether they are going to be suitable for you.
Remember to check exactly what comes with the game that you decide to purchase and if there are any extras that you are going to need to get. For example, we found some games online that actually only come with one ball, which is going to make gameplay very slow (and frustrating if the ball goes missing.
TOP TIP: There are plenty of manufacturers that actually design their games to be multifunctional with more than one game included when you purchase. These are going to be much better value for money but also provide much more entertainment!
Size and Weight
Probably the first thing that you need to think about is the size of giant lawn games. Obviously the title would suggest that they are going to be GIANT but if you think about it…the size of an average board game piece is a few centimeters, so anything is going to be giant in comparison to that!
There are lawn games that are actually only a few inches in size, such as cup and ball games, or there are really giant lawn games that have the potential to go up about 5 foot in height! Bear in mind the size and age of children that are going to be playing and make sure that the game can be adjusted for children that aren’t quite at that height yet!
The weight of your lawn game is important because if it is too heavy then you are going to find it is restrictive for younger children and could lead to frustration! Look out for material games that are filled with foam to make them lighter, or harder models that are hollow to reduce their overall weight. We found some that were only a few lbs and others that were close to 30lbs. Obviously this really depends on the game so it would be unfair to compare, however it is important to be mindful of the weight that your children are going to be able to use without becoming fatigued!
The weight is also important for if you are wanting to take your game with you to different places. We have seen many people take their giant lawn games to the park or even the beach and that just isn’t going to be possible if they are too heavy!
TOP TIP: It is worth knowing that some of the best giant lawn games can actually come in two sizes, so although they are “giant” you can choose the size that is going to be best suited to the children (or adults!) that are playing with it the most!
Material
Most giant lawn games are going to be plastic. It is the most durable material that you are going to find and can be left outside in all weather and will survive whatever the elements throw at it! The most you will find is it needs a wipe down or a clean with some soapy water. The only downside is that if they are left in direct sunlight you could find that they will become discolored over time. Another benefit to plastic is that it is super light, so will be easy for younger children to move. If you do decide to go for plastic giant lawn games then go for one that is UV protected which will help to avoid discolouration over time.
However, there are a couple of downsides to plastic which sway some people towards wooden giant lawn games. Plastic is going to impact on the “natural” look of your garden, whereas wooden lawn games can almost add a feature to your garden. Not just this, but if you have a garden that’s on the windy side then wooden lawn pieces are going to be heavier so less likely to blow over and ruin the game! If you do opt for wooden giant lawn games then we would always recommend packing them away when they are not in use to help prevent rot and wear, however it is also a good idea to opt for pressure treated wood that will help to protect the game from any rain that it does come into contact with!
If you have a game that comes with a base then you also need to think about the material that the base is made out of. For example, games such as chess will come on a mat…this could either be a thin piece of plastic, which has the benefit of being compact, light and portable, or could be achieved using mats made from foam or EVA material. Plastic will usually be cheaper but can tear and crease easily, plus will be more inclined to blow away. Matting will be heavier, which obviously makes it less portable but this could be a good thing when it is windy! Plus they offer a softer area to play on.
TOP TIP: If you want to purchase wooden giant lawn games then look out for FSC certified wood as this is going to be sustainable wood that has been grown and cut with the environment in mind. It is the best way to feel good about your new entertainment in the garden!
Weatherproof
As we live in the UK, that means we have to combat the great British weather. Make sure to go for a giant lawn game that has taken this into consideration.
All the main materials that are used should be waterproof first and foremost – so check for this first. Many also come with waterproof covers that can then go over the game so you are not having to pack it away after every use! If your giant lawn game involves fabric of any kind then it is worth making sure this fabric has a waterproof coating.
It is also a good idea to check if your giant lawn game has any “wind breaker” features. If the game has large parts (such as chess) then check to see if they are weighted to stop them knocking over.
Number of Players
It is always worth considering the number of people that will be able to join in with the game. If you have a few children that are going to be in your garden at once, purchasing a 2 player game might not be a wise idea if you are wanting to keep the peace! However, if there is just you and one other child/person then a two player game will be perfect. Most games recommend up to around 5 people but there are plenty of giant lawn games that could work for many more than that with a little adjustment.
Best Quoits
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Additional Features
Now that you know the main things you need to choose between when purchasing a giant lawn game, here are some of the additional features that are worth considering before you make your purchase.
- Carry case – it is unlikely that you are going to be leaving your game out all the time and if that is the case then you are going to need some way to store it! Look out for a giant lawn game that comes with a strong and durable carry case so that you can take it with you to different places and store it away in winter!
- Suitable for indoor use? – If you want to get good value for money out of your giant lawn game then look out for one that is going to be portable and suitable for indoor use as well. This means that if the weather isn’t on your side (and you have the space) you can entertain the children inside instead of out!
- Accessories – Look out for giant lawn games that come with accessories such as score cards and game ideas. This offers even better value for money and helps to add an element of competition into the games that you are playing which can be really good for children (and adults!).
- Extra parts – Any games that involve children and the outdoors means that there is a risk of parts going missing. Whether it be balls, darts or actual game pieces, the game is going to be ruined if parts disappear. Look out for giant lawn games that come with extra parts or balls etc so that your game is not wasted after the first summer!
- Colour – Many giant lawn games are advertised in different colours to suit different children. There are games that come in traditional colours but also ones that come in brighter colours or “themed” colours like pink or blue.
- Easy cleaning – It will be near impossible for you to keep your giant lawn games completely clean, particularly if you are taking it to different outdoor places. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t important to keep your game clean, as if you don’t then not only will it not be as enjoyable to play with the next time but also it will be more likely to become worn quickly. Look out for games that can be wiped down quickly and easily with a damp, soapy cloth!
- Educational benefits – We know that children are always learning, and they learn even more when they are participating in games and activities with adults. However, there are giant lawn games that focus more on development than others. This could be having to write information or scores down, or games that improve motor skills and cognitive ability. For example, 4-in-a-row will improve cognitive ability and problem solving skills! So if learning is also a key focus, check out on the details the way the game could support your child.
Best Other
- This giant garden version of the classic game features a 3m square super thick play mat with welded edges that won’t tear or fade when used
- Players act as the counters on this genuinely giant play mat, giving active as well as educational fun - and there are no counters to lose!
- The giant 38cm inflatable dice brings a whole new dimension to the fun. It is easy to use and lightweight to handle
- Easy to set up and easy to play this is a great take along game that comes with a strong cotton bag for storage and 8 pegs to hold the mat in place
- Squares on the the snakes and ladders mat are numbered to add to the educational value of the game as well as giving great garden fun
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
- Giant Size – Builds To 5ft Tall - Builds a Giant tower over 5 feet tall during play. Massive Giant Size.
- Hand Finished Smooth Blocks - Handmade with smooth Sanded finish - As you would expect from Jaques. Do not buy un-sanded cheap blocks.
- Strong Carry Case - Complete with Luxury durable canvas Storage Bag
- Great For Garden Parties - Fantastic Party Game for playing in the garden. One of the Most popular Garden Games of the last 10 Years
- Suitable For Ages From 3 - 103 - All ages can enjoy playing this very popular game!
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
- This Giant Connect 4 outdoor game is a version of a table game classic which is perfect for both indoor and outdoor garden play.
- Featuring a high-quality, beautifully hand-painted green wooden connect four frame complemented by yellow and red polymer material counters, ensures greater longevity.
- The large frame, measuring 61.5cm wide by 58.5cm high, adds to the appeal, making this giant connect 4 garden game ideal for parties!
- Experience a fantastic strategy garden game suitable for the entire family, helping your children enhance their cognitive function and problem-solving skills.
- It comes complete with pull-out pegs, allowing the frame to spin and empty the counters at the end of each Connect 4 game, simplifying the setup for the next round.
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Alternative Options
Looking for more ways to keep the kids entertained in the garden through the summer? Don’t panic! Here are some other options that you could consider adding to your garden…
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best giant lawn game for adults?
If you are a big kid at heart then there are lots of giant lawn games out there for you. There are so many to choose from, but we would recommend ball pong, hi-tower or darts if you are wanting a fun game, and of course chess or checkers if you are wanting something more serious.
What is the best giant lawn game for young children?
If you have young children between around 4 and 6 there are still plenty of giant lawn games that they can join in with! These include bowling, hi-tower and 4-in-a-row. There are also more educational games that will benefit young children.
How do you clean outdoor toys?
Outdoor toys are actually relatively easy to clean. Most toys are going to be made from plastic so can just be wiped down with warm soapy water. Wooden toys can be brushed down and possibly wiped providing they are dried quickly.
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