Draughts - Waterloo

Walk through the railway arch on Leake Street and you've stepped into something properly different. Draughts isn't trying to be ironic about board games—it's just genuinely set up for people who want to play them. The space is generous, the lighting doesn't make you want to leave after an hour, and crucially, the drinks list actually matters. You're getting craft beers that someone's thought about, not just whatever's on trend. Grab a table with mates, order something from the kitchen that won't disappoint, and lose track of time playing Catan or whatever's catching your eye from their shelves. It's buzzy without being heaving, even when it's rammed.