Rain pattering on the windows? Picnic spread on the grass in Higginson Park? Either way, a trusty deck of Marlow Playing Cards can turn any day into a family favourite.
Here are five timeless games perfect for all ages – no screens, no fuss, just cards, conversation, and maybe a few crumbs of cake.
- Snap
Players: 2–6 | Great for: Younger kids
A simple game of matching and lightning reactions. Take turns placing cards face-up in a pile – shout “Snap!” when two cards match. Winner grabs the lot. A brilliant way to introduce younger children to playing card fun.
🔗 Snap rules
- Old Maid
Players: 3–6 | Great for: Silly giggles
Remove one Queen (we suggest not the Queen of Marlow!) so there’s one odd card out. Players take turns drawing from each other’s hands, making and discarding pairs. The one left holding the “Old Maid” at the end… loses!
🔗 How to play Old Maid
- Go Fish
Players: 2–6 | Great for: Easy-going fun
Each player gets 5 cards. Ask others for a card you need to make a pair – if they don’t have it, they’ll say “Go Fish!” and you draw from the deck. Great for little ones learning numbers and pairs.
🔗 Go Fish tutorial
- Crazy Eights
Players: 2–5 | Great for: Slightly older kids
Get rid of all your cards by matching suit or number. Eights are wild and let you change suits! A great game to play when sheltering under a tree or gazebo in Higginson Park.
🔗 How to play Crazy Eights
- Palace (aka Shed or Karma)
Players: 2–6 | Great for: Teens and up
Shed all your cards by playing equal or higher numbers – or using strategic special cards (we love threes and tens for trick plays!). Easy to learn, endlessly funny. Perfect for families with older kids looking for a bit more challenge.
🔗 Palace game guide
Playing in the Park?
Higginson Park is one of Marlow’s gems (and hence why it’s our five of spades in the pack) – and your Marlow Playing Cards were made for a sunny picnic or a cosy bench break. Pack these tips:
- Use your snack container as a cardholder for windy days
- Take a mini rug or picnic mat for a perfect playing surface
- Make up your own Marlow-themed twist! E.g. “Snap” with matching Ace Places illustrations
Why Classic Card Games Work So Well
- Totally portable – tuck a Marlow deck in your pocket
- No set-up or tech needed
- Adaptable for all ages
- Full of laughs and little learning moments
- Keeps the focus on fun and family
Want to Keep Playing?
- Use the extra cards in your Marlow deck to invent your own games – maybe a treasure hunt through town based on suit or card number?
- Try creating a “Top Trumps” version based on the Marlow card descriptions (most delicious, best view, friendliest team…)
Local Tip
Some Marlow cafés and pubs love a good game moment – bring your cards along, order something scrummy, and make it a little family outing.
Wherever you deal them – rain-soaked living room or sun-dappled park bench – your Marlow Playing Cards hold more than just stories. They’re a passport to giggles, chats, and some very royal memories.
Need a pack?
Buy your Marlow Playing Cards in advance of your visit and have them delivered straight to your door, wherever you are in the world.
If you’re already in Marlow, check out our local stockists and pick up a pack there. Just filter the page by clicking on the ‘Show Marlow’ button.
Every Marlow Playing Card has a story to share so if you’re unsure what one of the cards is all about, then check out our website www.aceplaces.co.uk – click on Our Places at the top then Marlow and you can explore the pack.
Any questions? We’re always happy to help so email hi@aceplaces.co.uk
Let the games begin! ♠️♥️♣️♦️
