The Poker Boom Continues in the UK

While poker's popularity may have peaked in some parts of the world, the game is still riding a massive wave of interest in the United Kingdom. Brits have taken to Texas Hold'em and other poker variants like a duck to water, and the poker scene throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland is thriving.

Part of poker's widespread appeal in the UK is due to its rich history and traditions. Games like three card brag have been played for centuries, cultivating a culture of legal card rooms and home games throughout the isles. When the poker boom exploded in the early 2000s thanks to televised events, books, online play and iconic films like Rounders, the UK had fertile ground for the seeds of poker mania to take root.

It's impossible to talk about modern UK poker without mentioning the cash game TV show After Dark. This innovative program featured some of the biggest names in the game playing high stakes cash in a very unique setting - under the lights in a closed poker room environment. Not only did After Dark allow fans a thrilling glimpse into the highest levels of poker action, but it also created new superstars and heroes for British rail birds to cheer for.

Speaking of fandom, one of the best ways poker has grown in popularity throughout the UK is through social clubs and events. A prime example is the Ladbrokes Poker Social Club, a club of over 100 members that get together regularly in London. These clubs are high stakes affairs, friendly gatherings where new players can learn the game from more experienced members in a fun social setting.

While the UK poker scene continues to embrace the pub poker club and social side of the game, there is still a strong emphasis on poker as a professional pursuit. The UK remains a hotbed for young up-and-coming players looking to climb the ranks. The rise of the online game coupled with some extremely lucrative wins by Brits on tournament poker's biggest stages has created an incentive structure for dedicated poker academics to put in the work required to play at an elite level.

Whether it's a casual night out playing some £10/£20 No-Limit Hold'em with friends or a big six-figure score at an European Poker Tour stop, UK players know their way around the felt. With poker as deeply rooted in British culture as fish and chips, you can expect the games to keep going strong throughout England's famed card clubs, casinos, and pubs for a long time to come.