Chalk, Cues & Conversation: Finding Community at Cousin’s Snooker & Pool, Holloway

Cousin's Snooker and Club, Holloway Looking over a busy road in Holloway, North London, is a Snooker and Pool hall that doesn’t disappoint. A nice bar, friendly staff and very well-kept tables, Cousin’s Holloway offers a space away from the hustle and bustle of London for both the serious players and the casual alike. The outside of the venue does not speak to how professional and slick the interior is. Upon entering the venue, you are met with hundreds of pictures hanging on the wall with photographs of members standing proudly with their cue at a pool or snooker table. The photos clearly span generations of attendees. Just a short walk up the stairs and you are met with a well-stocked bar and the sound of pool matches underway. There are flags and quotes on the ceiling, and the walls are full of photographs and pool cues, including cues on display for sale. The First Floor at Cousin's Once you walk into the venue, it doesn’t feel like London anymore. It’s quieter than you expect and the vibe is very chilled. I last went on a Sunday afternoon, expecting a tournament or some serious cash games, but I found that most of the tables in use were couples, often one partner teaching the other how to play Pool. I went with my fiancée, and she was surprised that there were other couples there, who would have thought that a Pool hall makes a nice date idea? Gone are the days of the cold and dodgy stereotype of the Pool Hall. Cousin’s has a warm feel with a space and place for every visitor to play, regardless of their ability. The beauty of a pool hall is that you pay for a table, so you have a set space carved out for you. This provides a level of comfort and an ability to choose who you engage. The space you own can allow you to attend with a mate and speak to no one else, whilst also being able to watch and engage with the tables around you. This is rare. In most places, like a pub, bar or cafe, you’re unlikely to have a space for yourself and your group as big as a po...