The Bristol Poker League
The best place to play FREE poker in the South West
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Frequently Asked Questions

Q - I've never played poker before, and am a little unsure about what exactly happens, can l still play?

Absolutely. this is the best format to start playing live poker as it will not cost you anything to play. If you want someone to run through how a deal works, what the blinds are, what the chip values are etc before you start, please ask to speak to the Tournament Director when you arrive, and as long as there is time we will try to arrange a quick run through of how a game works. Obviously this wont be possible 5 minutes before a game starts!

When you are sat at a table everyone is friendly, and help will be offered to anyone unsure about what to do during a hand. However, what should never be offered is advice on any particular hand and your choices in it. Any action such as calling, betting or raising, should be your decision only.

Q - How do I sign up and play?

Before you can play a game in the league, you will need to register. This is a simple enough process of filling in a form with your name, address, and email. In return you will be given a membership card with a number on. You then sign up for the evenings game on the sheet which will be on display. Just before the game starts everyone will be allocated a table number, and you make your way to the table you have been assigned to and take a seat. You cannot register online.

Q - Sounds good, what nights do you run games?

Games are played according to each pubs schedule. Please click on the calendar for full details.

Q - What time should I get to the pub?

It is advisable to arrive early. Check the calendar for any game you wish to play as they differ depending on which venue you go to and which day of the week you play on.
There may also be limits to the number of seats available depending on each venues capacity, and this is subject to change at any time at the venues discretion.

Q - Are you sure it's FREE?

Yes. Each game is totally free to play. We cannot force people to make a purchase from any of our host locations, BUT we would like to point out that whilst the games are free to play in, they are NOT free for the pubs to host. Some pubs do ask that you buy a drink before you will be permitted to play to help towards covering their costs and we have no problem with that. If you are not prepared to at least buy one drink, then you may not be able to play.
However. If you do have a drink or two then we would also point out that drinking to excess during a game is not encouraged, so please be sensible. Drunken players will not be tolerated if they become abusive to players or staff, and will be removed from the game at the Tournament Directors discretion.

Q- Can I come along and just watch?

Yes you can, however, why not join in? it won't cost you a penny to play!

Q - Will I have to deal the cards? I'm not very good at shuffling!

Each player is required to take their turn in dealing but if you are not confident about shuffling another player may shuffle for you if you ask them nicely!. Shuffling and dealing is not difficult and once you start, you will find you will be able to do it with ease. You can shuffle the cards all over the table if you want to. You do not need to riffle shuffle like an expert magician! If you happen to make a mistake when dealing, do not panic. Simply ask the people at the table what is needed to be done, and they will tell you.

Q - Who runs the event?

The Tournament Director will run the event. The T.D. will ensure that any issues with hand ranking, table behaviour and points allocation are settled correctly. The T.D's decision is final in all events.

Q - When are the finals taking place and what are the prizes?

We usually aim for the second week of the following month once the league season has finished. The venue for the final and all the prizes may vary from month to month but will be listed on here as soon as they are known.

Q - How do I find out if I have qualified for the final?

You will be able to keep track of the leaderboard on this website on the League Table page.

Q - Sounds excellent - I'm in!

Good. We look forward to you signing up and playing.