Set a limit before you walk in and treat the evening as entertainment, never income. If it stops being fun, free confidential help is a call away on the National Gambling Helpline, 0808 8020 133, or at begambleaware.org.
Decide what you’re happy to spend before you sit down, and treat it as the price of a night out. Take cash you can afford to lose, and set a time to leave as well as a limit to spend.
Take breaks, keep the drinks in check, and never chase a loss — the next hand doesn’t know what the last one did. If you’re not enjoying it, that’s the moment to stop.
Every venue in this guide is strictly for over-18s, and you’ll be asked for valid photo ID. If gambling is affecting you or someone close to you, these free services can help, day or night: