The summer of sport is far from over, as next week sees the start of the highly-anticipated Paris Olympics. But Londoners need not wait another moment to get their game faces on, as two shiny new Pétanque courts have landed in the capital city. And they’re completely free to use.
King’s Cross has recently undergone a summery French Riviera-style glow-up, and is inviting visitors to head on over, kick back, relax, and indulge in a leisurely game of the Riviera’s favourite recreational activity: Pétanque. Fantastique, right?
What is Pétanque?
Good question. Deeply rooted in French culture, Pétanque is the perfect sport for those lazy, hazy days of summer (of which, we don’t get many in the UK but let’s not talk about that). Otherwise known as boules; the aim of the game is simple. You chuck a shiny ball towards a less-shiny, wooden ball (AKA the jack), and the person who gets the closest wins. It’s a sport of skill, precision, and strategy – so I don’t stand a chance. I’ll give it my best shot, though.
The two 15-metre courts have popped up in Pancras Square, just behind Goods Way, and will be offering a little slice of Parisian charm to Londoners and out-of-towners until September 1.
King’s Cross has created a programme full of fun-filled summer activities, most of which are completely free to enjoy. So, get into the Olympic spirit, fire up your competitive side, and go and have some fun in the (wildly intermittent and unreliable) sun. Let the good times roll boule.
The pétanque courts will be open in Pancras Square until September 1, from 10am-9pm (Monday-Friday) and 10am-7pm (Saturday-Sunday). They are completely free to use and will work on a first-come, first-served basis. Find out more and plan your visit here.