Boules hire Scotland brings this classic French lawn game to your event — throw your boules as close to the jack as possible, and don’t be afraid to knock your opponent’s out of the way. See its full history on Wikipedia. Played on any reasonably firm flat surface, it’s a relaxed but genuinely competitive addition to any event.
Boules Hire Scotland: A Beginner’s Guide to the Rules
| 2-6 Players | 13 Points to win | 20-40 min Average game | All ages Recommended |
How to Set Up
- Split into two teams: Singles (1 v 1, three boules each), Doubles (2 v 2, three boules each), or Triples (3 v 3, two boules each).
- Each team’s boules should have a different pattern so they’re easy to tell apart.
- Toss a coin to see which side goes first.
How to Play
- The team that wins the toss throws the jack from within a starting circle, 20-30 feet away.
- Players throw their boules from within the circle, aiming to land as close to the jack as possible.
- Players call the closest boule “holding the point” — the other team keeps throwing until they take the lead or run out of boules.
- Once one side runs out, the other throws its remaining boules.
Tip: It’s completely fair to knock an opponent’s boule out of position — use it to your advantage. However, a precise soft landing usually beats an aggressive knockout shot.
Scoring a Round
Once both teams have thrown all their boules, the team with the closest boule to the jack wins the round, scoring one point for every one of their boules that’s closer to the jack than the opponent’s best boule. Only one team scores per round.
Winning the Game
The first team to reach 13 points wins the game. There’s no fixed number of rounds — play continues until someone gets there. That relaxed pace is part of what makes boules hire Scotland such an easy fit for a drinks reception or garden party.
A Few Strategy Tips for Beginners
- Play safe shots when leading. Landing close is often better than risking a knockout throw.
- Use knockout shots when behind. Sometimes displacing the leading boule is your best option.
- Read the ground. You can use a slight slope or rough patch to your advantage once you know it’s there.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boules
What’s the minimum number of players for boules?
Two to six — played as Singles (1v1), Doubles (2v2), or Triples (3v3).
How many boules does each player use?
Three each in Singles or Doubles, two each in Triples.
How do you score a round?
The team with the boule closest to the jack scores a point for every one of their boules closer than the opponent’s best boule.
What’s needed to win the game?
First team to reach 13 points wins.
Other Garden Games
Additionally, please have a look at our other giant games. When multiple games are ordered as a package, a discounted rate may apply.
Boules Hire Scotland FAQs
Is boules hire suitable for indoor and outdoor use?
Boules hire is best played outdoors on any reasonably firm surface. For outdoor Scottish events we recommend a covered backup area in case of weather.
What events is boules hire popular for?
Boules hire is a great choice for wedding drinks receptions, garden parties, corporate events, and family celebrations. No experience is needed — guests get involved straight away.
What areas of Scotland do you cover for boules hire?
We deliver across Central Scotland — Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perth, Fife, East Lothian, Midlothian and West Lothian, Stirling and the Scottish Borders. Get in touch to confirm availability for your date and venue.
Can boules hire be combined with DJ or other entertainment?
Yes — games and DJ services are frequently booked together. See our full giant games range or get in touch for a combined quote.