Yorkshire. God’s Own Country. Known for green fields, a good roast, and Sean Bean. There really is something for everyone. Hike across misty moors, stop for a spot of shopping, or try your hand in one of the county’s casinos. Whatever you have in mind, it’s a trip worth taking.
In this guide, we’ll explore where best to put your online poker skills to the test, on the green tables of the county’s casinos. Whether you covet a game of 3 Card or have a soft-spot for Hold’em, you’re sure to find a welcoming table.
From CasVegas to PonteCarlo, come with us on a tour of Yorkshire’s best casinos.
The best Yorkshire casinos to try out your skills
The first casino in England was opened in 1828 in Mayfair, London. Unfortunately, Yorkshire may not have been able to benefit from the bustle of the capital at the time. However, today is a different story. The business in the UK and across Yorkshire has bounded, with people able to play poker online and in person at a variety of venues.
Across the county, you’ll find hundreds of renowned casinos, from smaller, independent sites to big, branded buildings. Here are some of our top picks for trying out your skills:
Opera House Casino – Scarborough
Combine a blissful trip to the seaside with a good game of cards. Opera House Casino was originally housed in an old circus building on the same site. The circus itself dates back to 1877, but was converted into a music hall in the Edwardian era. It lived through World Wars, and was deemed Grade 2 listed in 1977. So, if you’re looking for a bit of history alongside your game, you’ve come to the right place.
If you regularly play poker online you’ll be pleased to hear that the Opera House specialises in poker (3 Card and Cajun Stud), so you’re in good hands here. These variations are often hard to find in a land-based casino, which makes it popular with serious players. They also have American Roulette and Blackjack on offer.
Victoria Gate Casino – Leeds
Looking for a bit of glamour? Then Victoria Gate might be the spot for you. Housed in Victoria gate Shopping Centre, the venue offers a huge variety of games and tables. Built only in 2016, this ultra-modern and sleek building houses premium fashion brands, as well as hidden gem restaurants like Habbibi.
Victoria Gate Casino offers 3 Card Poker, Blackjack, Roulette and over 175 electric slots. All this, hosted on 22 live betting tables and surrounded by the buzz of live DJ sets and performances. If you’re looking for an evening to remember, Victoria Gate is the place to be.
Napoleon’s Casino – Sheffield
Napoleon’s is an iconic spot, with locations across Yorkshire – including Leeds, Bradford and Hull. So take your pick! The casino is not only known for its popular gaming tables, but its impressive restaurant. Their dinner menu is served from 6 pm to 10 pm, and offers classic and delectable dishes.
Personally, we’d go for the pork belly rillette to start, the roast chicken ballotine, and possibly the sticky toffee for dessert. If we’ve room. Don’t fret, they also serve a late-night snacks menu too. No Yorkshire puddings, though, unfortunately.
In terms of what’s on offer, you can expect Texas Hold’em and 3 Card Poker. Besides this, you may also want to try their Blackjack and Roulette tables. There are also 20 slot machines on offer if you fancy a moment away from the game.
Practice makes perfect
Getting started playing poker can be difficult, especially if you want to play in person. So, playing and practising online can be the perfect way for beginners to get to grips with the game. Of course, the atmosphere and buzz of an in-person casino are fantastic. However, you may want to try your hand at a few different poker skills before making your first appearance.
With this in mind, there are a few skills you may need to practice that perhaps aren’t needed online. For example:
- Reading your opponents. This is when you observe other people at the table. For example, their facial expressions, behaviours and body language, to try and work out how strong their hand is.
- Utilising bluffs. Similarly, this involves observing your opponents to see if they have any ‘tells’. But, perhaps more importantly, you’ll need to control and also ‘bluff’ your own bluff wisely.
- Patience and perseverance. In-person poker games can feel a little more daunting than playing online. This can affect your ability to think clearly, especially if you’re in a loud, buzzing environment. You’re good at what you do; rely on your skill to see you through.
So, are you ready to hit the tables at Yorkshire’s best casinos? Not only are they good for a game or two, but these spaces offer a variety of food and entertainment options. However you play, make an evening of it, take your friends, and enjoy yourself.
