English Pool—also called “blackball” or “UK 8-ball”—is a highly strategic cue sport that thrives in pubs, clubs, and professional circuits across the UK and the Commonwealth. Though it shares similarities with its American cousin, this form of pool is a world of its own, with its own rules, governing bodies, and star players.
The Game at a Glance
English Pool typically uses:
- 7 reds, 7 yellows, 1 black ball (the 8-ball), and a white cue ball
- Smaller 6-foot or 7-foot tables with tighter pockets
- Soft-tipped cues for more controlled, finesse-based play
While it may look like standard bar pool, English Pool has codified rule sets such as World Rules, Blackball Rules, and International Rules, depending on the league or event. Each format brings subtle differences to gameplay, ball-in-hand penalties, and tactical options.
A National Pastime with Global Reach
English Pool originated in the UK, yet it enjoys a passionate following in countries like Australia, Malta, South Africa, and Ireland. The sport boasts its own legends—Mick Hill, Tom Cousins, Phil Harrison, and Emma Cunningham—and has grown steadily with the rise of televised events and world-class venues.
Tournaments Covered from Club to World Title
This page serves as your gateway into English Pool’s major competitions:
- IPA World Pool Championship
- WEPF World Championships
- Ultimate Pool Series
- Nations Cup
- Supreme Pool Series
Whether you’re here to follow Nation v. Nation matchups or simply pick up on rule differences, you’ll find tournament coverage, ranking updates, highlight matches, and profiles of elite cueists right here.
Stay tuned as this section of the site expands into a full archive of English Pool’s international and domestic tournaments.