IF you have ever thought there needs to be a place where you can have a pint - or shot of mead - and get competitive with friends over a board game, I have good news for you.

While the beautiful game is getting a lot of attention in Wrexham, there is now a special location in the city that is home to more than 400 other games!

A North Wales businessman is rolling the dice on a unique new venture in the centre of Wrexham, and the Leader was invited along for a sneak preview ahead of launch day on Saturday, February 11.

 

Immerse yourself in the medieval theme at TableTaps, Wrexham.

Immerse yourself in the medieval theme at TableTaps, Wrexham.

 

Heading along Lord Street, we had no idea what to look for as we tried to find TableTaps, a new bar with a twist.

But there it was, a surreal sight in the window of gaming tables, in a medieval setting.

Entering TableTaps for the first time is a bit special. The bar itself has been kitted out to resemble a ye olde tavern, even the staff look the part in leather aprons.

 

Man with a plan - TableTaps owner Stephen Mitchell.

Man with a plan - TableTaps owner Stephen Mitchell.

 

The ground floor is ready for customers, whether in for a drink, game or both but with another two floors at his disposal, owner Stephen Mitchell has big plans.

Taking us on a tour, he explains his aim is for the entire building to be themed, with gaming and fantasy tabletop rooms available, and eventually being able to offer hot food. Although for the snack fans amongst you, bar nibbles are currently on offer.

Read more: Wrexham Games Day put emphasis on fun

He also hopes to host specialist events, such as Dungeons and Dragons nights, a game of course given a huge boost in popularity by Netflix hit Stranger Things.

TableTaps is a long-term project for Stephen, from Connah's Quay, and his passion for bringing added value to the city is impressive.

 

Tipple by Stone Circle Mead in Wrexham.

Tipple by Stone Circle Mead in Wrexham.

 

The 40-year-old was also keen to use local suppliers as much as possible, and behind the bar you'll find iconic Wrexham Lager, and in keeping with the medieval theme, three flavours of mead from Wrexham-based Stone Circle Mead.

I ask Stephen why the medieval decor, and it turns out the whole thing is quite a family affair.

He said: "That was 100% my brother David's idea, he's a very creative guy, and it was a nod to the heritage of Wrexham itself."

Helping him bring that all to life, has been cousin Craig Mitchell and dad Tecwyn Mitchell.

He added: "Whether they're booking ahead or walk-ins, we want to make members feel special.

"People can browse our library of games, which we've created a QR code for to allow gamers access to."

 

Just some of the games on affer at TableTaps in Wrexham.

Just some of the games on affer at TableTaps in Wrexham.

 

Those games include plenty of classics - including the Welsh version of Monopoly - speedy games, lengthier role playing games and so many more. There is literally something for everyone.

TableTaps is a great addition to Lord Street, which already has creative and eclectic vibe, and they're proud to be inclusive.

 

An adjustable gaming table inside TableTaps gaming bar in Wrexham.

An adjustable gaming table inside TableTaps gaming bar in Wrexham.

 

Helped with a grant from Business Wales, the bar is fully wheelchair accessible, front to back, and there's even a bespoke gaming table that can be adjusted to accommodate various sizes.

Having sampled a couple of the meads - an unusual but incredibly pleasant tipple - we set about having a game ourselves.

While others were immersed in detailed games of complex strategy, we went with something a tad simpler.

 

TableTaps general manager Pete Debney and barman Josh Lowe.

TableTaps general manager Pete Debney and barman Josh Lowe.

 

Playing Blokus for the first time was incredible fun, and could be finished relatively quickly. If you loved Tetris, you'll love Blokus.

Games are available to purchase at TableTaps, and I enjoyed this one so much, I bought a set. My family is not prepared for the competitive beast it has unleashed!

TableTaps launches tomorrow (Feb 11) at 4pm, which will follow on from Saturday's Wrexham Games Day, organised by the bar's general manager, Pete Debney. The opening is expected to be incredible fun, with re-enactors and cosplayers attending.

If the launch whets your appetite for more or you want to pop along and experience it for yourself, the bar will be open 2pm to 11pm, Thursday to Monday.

And should TableTaps is a success, Stephen hopes to expand, with Chester a strong possibility. Could we see a Roman behind the bar..?