Sip and Conquer board game café opens in Maidenhead High Street

A board game café dedicated to providing people with a space to play their favourite games is up-and-running in Maidenhead High Street.

The Sip and Conquer café enjoyed a fully-booked opening weekend as people of all ages put their minds to the test at the town centre venue.

School friends Ellie Jeffries and Rosie Mulford decided to roll the dice on their business venture after feeling Maidenhead lacks a space where people can play games in an inclusive atmosphere.

The business partners have compiled an extensive board game library for guests to choose with time slots of 90 minutes, 180 minutes or more available for guests to book.

Ellie said: “We’ve had really positive feedback and everybody has been so encouraging.

“Its been nice speaking to so many people who are excited to have something open on the High Street.”

The venue held a soft launch event on Friday for friends, family and supporters who helped make the pair’s dream a reality.

It opened to the public the following day.

The café features a host of personal touches, including handmade cushions created by Ellie’s mother and grandmother, Nicki and June Jeffries.

A Monopoly-themed floor also greets guests as they use the café’s toilets.

A Crowdfunder campaign helped raise more than £3,000 which has been invested into delivering an efficient online booking system for the business.

Guests are encouraged to use this to secure a table at the café but walk-ins will also be accepted if spots are available.

Ellie added: “We’ve had a nice mixture of people which is what we were really aiming for. There’s been lots of families in here and then in the evening there’s been lots of young professionals.

“Its been exhausting but we’re super motivated now that its open because of the really positive response we’ve had from people.”

The café was set to host its first social gaming event yesterday (Thursday) which gave guests the opportunity to play with like-minded board game lovers.

Visitors are encouraged to provide feedback to the new venue as it takes its first steps.

Ellie added: “We’re trying to make improvements as we go along. We’re very keen to get feedback from people who visit.

“It’s our first time doing something like this so we know there are things that we can improve on.

“People have been really helpful in terms of feedback which we have really appreciated.”

Visit sipandconquer.co.uk to book a spot at the café online.