How to Play Boules - Rules for Beginners

Boules (also known as Pétanque) is an iconic French ball game that's stood the test of time. Hailing from the sun-drenched region of Provence, this game is made for long summer evenings in the back garden.

Simple but surprisingly strategic, people of all ages can swing into some Boules fun. Grandparents can challenge their grandkids, while groups of friends can have a slow game in between conversations.

Where precision meets relaxation, the game of Boules is easy to pick up to but hard to put down. There’s something so satisfying about watching your boule curve perfectly towards the target - or seeing your calculated shot nudge your opponent's boule out of the way. To get you started, here are our top tips on how to play Boules.

Did you know that the earliest recorded game of was around 6,000 years ago? The Ancient Greeks played a rudimentary version of the game using stones until the Romans swooped in and opted for using wooden or bronze round objects.

Even though we know Boules are a French staple, the game eventually reached the sunny Provencial regions in the Middle Ages. By the 14th century, it was a beloved pastime for everyone from royals to commoners.

Are Pétanque and Boules the same? Pétanque is a variation of the latter, as it made the game more accessible to more people as it needs less space. The word "pétanque" comes from the Provençal term "pès tancats," meaning "feet together." This reflects the unique stance required to play the game, as while throwing players must have their feet firmly planted on the ground.

Setting up our Boules Sets is quick and simple, with rust-free coated balls for years of Boules fun. Plus, they all come in a handy portable carry case, so you can easily play the game wherever the fun takes you.

This classic game can be played on nearly every type of surface, whether you’re having a game on the patio or at the local park. Just make sure that the space is open and fairly flat. To ensure everyone throws from the same point, mark a clear throwing line. Back in the day, this was marked with a baguette - but chalk or a stick is sufficient nowadays.

You’ll need a set of wooden “boules”, which are the balls you will throw. Then one smaller target ball is known as the “Jack”. Our Boules Sets feature six or eight boules with different markings so teams can identify which ball is theirs.

With our Boules Sets, you can play in single rounds or split up into teams. Each player or team gets three or four boules to play with throughout the game.

It’s time for the first player to throw their boules, aiming to get as close to the jack as possible. It's important that while throwing, players must have their feet firmly planted on the ground!

Then the opposing team takes their turn, where they have two choices. They can try and land their boule closer to the jack or to knock their opponent’s boule away.