10 Best Family Board Games UK 2023

Although not strictly a board game, Uno has become a staple in many homes with its easy-to-grasp rules and basic equipment. It is quick to finish but can be played over and over again without becoming dull, whether you're round the table or on a camping trip. 

The game strikes the perfect balance between skill and luck, and because it requires no knowledge or trivia, it is suitable for both older and younger players alike. All that's needed is a few tactful moves along the way and you'll find yourself shouting 'Uno' in no time!

Cluedo is unique for a family board game in its dark and intriguing subject matter, so it's no wonder this Harry Potter version works so well. It manages to enthral all ages and is sure to be family favourite for any fan of the beloved series, or the original version of the game!

After a few goes, you'll remember how to play, and you'll love the twists and familiar characters used. To make sense of the plot, Cluedo does require quite a few extra pieces which means it's perfect for keeping kids, teens, and adults of 9 and over occupied. 

Articulate is a game that most people know and love, which is why it's still on many a best of list. Its simplicity means it is accessible to most and every family can tailor the rules to suit them. 

It's also one of the most flexible games when it comes to numbers – the makers state that more than 20 people can participate! This means that, whilst some of the cards might be slightly too difficult for younger players, they can still play along with their team. 

Everyone knows the classic version of this popular board game, famous for igniting family feuds the world over. To finish a normal game of Monopoly usually requires setting aside a whole day, but not with this new kid on the block. 

This game has all your favourite parts of the original but manages to transform into a game you might actually finish. Of course, this may mean for some it loses some of the charm, but it does mean participants may be more willing to get involved!

This game works well for both adults, teens, and children as it covers many eras and generations – each participant can have their chance to shine!

Younger children will love recognising their favourite brands, and the variety of spoken and visual clues will help to mix it up. The box is quite big so probably not one you can take everywhere, but it's ideal for stowing on the living room shelf ready for a night in at home.  

This game combines trivia and making connections - both of which can be a bit tricky - which is why it is aimed at slightly older children and teens. If your family members are all old enough to play, get ready to shout out answers and have fun collecting cards.

This game doesn't require a board and is focused largely around cards which you then win. It also comes with pencils and pads for writing answers, another reason why it is better for older players, though this does mean you don't have to scramble around trying to find your own!

In a similar way to Banagrams, Exploding Kittens doesn't really give any clues away as to what this game actually involves. Its premise is actually very simple, meaning that it is a family-friendly game that can be played in any free moment. 

The inclusion of imaginary laser beams and magical enchiladas is sure to be crazy enough to entertain children, as well as those with a child-like sense of humour, but won't appeal as much if you prefer the classic board games.

Board games can be a great vehicle for learning and developing in fun and unexpected ways, and this is definitely true of Dixit. It has a board that helps to demonstrate how everyone is doing, but the game centres mainly around cards with intriguing drawings.

This game for anyone aged 8 and over encourages creativity in the way that you have to come up with stories and ideas, so is great for playing with both slightly older children and adults alike. It's not the kind of game you can get out quickly, though, as it does require some setting up time and explanation. 

Bananagrams can be seen as an updated, sped up and more portable version of Scrabble. Despite the name, it doesn't have very much to do with bananas, but banana-related terminology is used throughout. If you have younger kids or are not the biggest fan of Scrabble, you may want to think twice about buying, but if you love words and shouting at the top of your lungs, then this game has just what you need.

The game only requires what is contained within a small banana-shaped pouch, meaning it is extremely easy to take from place to place. The rules are easy to teach and follow – although you might end up arguing over what is and isn't a proper noun! 

A lot of the other games on this list are suitable for players over 7 years of age, but with Hungry Hungry Hippos, you can get those as young as 4 involved. This does mean it's probably not as universally appealing as some titles, though.

You'll all be in hysterics as you press furiously to try and get your hippos to eat the most marbles. Then, at the end, encourage your children to practise their numbers by counting the scores at the end.