English pool (also called British 8-ball or blackball) is the game played on the smaller tables found in UK pubs and clubs. The basics are the same everywhere; the rules that cause arguments are about fouls and their penalties.
How a frame works
- The balls are racked in a triangle with the black in the middle.
- One player breaks from baulk.
- The first player to legally pot a ball (after the break, depending on the rules) takes that colour — reds or yellows.
- Players take turns (visits), continuing while they pot their own colour.
- Once your colour is cleared, you pot the black to win.
The main rule sets
| Blackball rules | World Eightball rules | Typical pub rules | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penalty for a foul | Opponent gets the cue ball in hand, anywhere on the table | Opponent gets two visits | Usually two shots |
| Where it’s used | Many UK leagues and county competitions | International and many national competitions | Casual play, some local leagues |
Rule sets are updated from time to time and leagues often add local variations, so always confirm which rules you’re playing before a match — and write them down if you run a league.
Common fouls
- Potting the cue ball (an “in-off”)
- Hitting your opponent’s ball first, or the black before your colour is cleared
- Failing to hit any ball
- Hitting a ball off the table
- Touching a ball with your hand, body or clothing
- Playing a push shot or a jump shot where they’re not allowed
Losing the frame
Under most rules you lose the frame if you pot the black before your colour is cleared, or foul when potting the black.
Learn the rules properly
The Pool Academy starts with a lesson on which rules you’re playing and why it matters, and the glossary explains the terms.