Best Christmas Gifts for Domino Fans | Jaques of London
There is a particular sound to a good domino set: the rattle of tiles being shuffled across a table, then the sharp click as each one is laid down. For anyone who grew up playing, that sound carries Christmas with it.
Finding a gift for a domino enthusiast means thinking past the thin plastic sets that end up at the bottom of a drawer. The right set feels weighty in the hand and reads clearly across a crowded table. Every set we make is tested to UKCA and CE standards, so it is safe for the youngest players at the table as well as the eldest.
Below is a guide to choosing well, whether you are buying for a seasoned player or someone just discovering the game among the rest of our traditional games.
What to Look for in a Quality Domino Set Before You Buy
The first thing to judge is the tile itself. A quality domino should sit flat, feel solid between finger and thumb, and carry pips that are deep and evenly spaced. Shallow or faded pips make quick play frustrating, especially under lamplight on a winter evening.
Material matters more than most buyers expect. Wooden tiles age gracefully, develop a pleasant patina, and hold their shape over decades of handling. A set with a brass spinner at its centre, as found in our triangle dominoes, pivots cleanly and protects the faces as tiles are turned and shuffled.
Consider the case, too. A proper domino set comes housed in something that keeps the tiles together and travels well between family homes. The mahogany-cased sets within our traditional games are built for exactly this, with a lid that closes snugly rather than warping after a season or two.
Size is the quiet detail people overlook. Larger tiles are easier to read and easier to grip, which suits older players and younger children alike. If the recipient plays with grandchildren, generous tiles earn their place.
Finally, think about the number of tiles. A standard double-six set contains 28 tiles, which is plenty for two or three players but can feel tight around a full family table. Knowing how the set will actually be used saves you from buying something that spends more time boxed than in play. The same principle applies across our board games.
Which Types of Domino Sets Make the Best Christmas Gifts
The type of set you choose shapes the games that can be played, so it is worth matching the gift to how your recipient likes to spend an evening.
For traditionalists, a double-nine set opens up more of the game without overwhelming newcomers. A double-nine domino set contains 55 tiles, which suits larger groups comfortably and allows longer, more strategic games. Our double nine dominoes arrive in a mahogany case that looks the part on any shelf and makes a handsome present to unwrap.
For those who love company at the table, Mexican Train is hard to beat. It is sociable, easy to learn, and built for a crowd. Our Mexican Train dominoes set comes complete in a wooden box with the trains and hub included, so there is nothing else to buy before the first game on Christmas afternoon.
For something a little different, triangle dominoes change the geometry of play and reward players who enjoy fresh challenges. The brass spinners make them a pleasure to handle, and the price makes them an easy addition alongside a main gift.
If you are buying for a group that grows at Christmas, a double-twelve set is worth considering. A double-twelve domino set contains 91 tiles and is often recommended for four or more players, making it the natural choice for extended family gatherings.
And if the person on your list enjoys more than one classic game, it is worth browsing our wider board games and the gift ideas we have gathered for backgammon players as well.
Our Picks: The Best Domino Sets and Accessories for Christmas 2024
Our strongest all-rounder this year is the double nine dominoes in a mahogany case, priced at £31.99. It handles two players and a full family alike, the tiles read clearly, and the case means it survives being passed from one household to the next. For most domino fans, this is the set that simply works.
If the gift is for someone who loves a lively table, the Mexican Train dominoes at £32.99 is our pick for the sociable player. Everything needed arrives in one wooden box, which spares you the hunt for accessories and makes it ready to play straight from the wrapping paper.
For a thoughtful smaller gift, or a second set to leave at a holiday home, the triangle dominoes at £17.99 offer genuine character. The brass spinners lift them above ordinary sets, and they introduce a twist on the familiar game that keeps experienced players interested.
These three cover the range most buyers need: a dependable classic, a crowd-pleaser, and an affordable surprise. Each sits within our traditional games, so you can compare them side by side before deciding.
If you are shopping for several people at once, it helps to pair a domino set with another classic from the same collection. A domino fan who also enjoys strategy games often appreciates a second gift, and our guide to gifts for backgammon players is a useful companion read when planning a full Christmas list.
How to Choose the Right Domino Set for Age, Skill Level and Family Size
Matching the set to the person is the surest way to buy well. For younger children joining in for the first time, larger tiles with bold pips are easier to handle and read, which keeps the game moving and the frustration low. The same applies to older relatives who value clarity over fiddly detail.
Skill level guides the number of tiles. Newcomers do well with a standard double-six set of 28 tiles, which keeps rounds short and rules simple. As confidence grows, a double-nine set of 55 tiles adds depth and longer games without changing the fundamentals.
Family size is the deciding factor at Christmas. A double-twelve set of 91 tiles is often recommended for four or more players and comes into its own when the whole household gathers. If your recipient regularly hosts a full table, the larger set earns its keep.
Think also about where the set will live. A handsome cased set invites play because it sits out on display rather than hidden away, and that visibility alone tends to mean more games get played across the year.
For households with very young children not yet ready for dominoes, it is worth looking at our wooden toys and our age-based guides instead, including ideas for a one year old, a two year old and a three year old. And when the weather turns, our outdoor games keep the same spirit of play going beyond the Christmas table.
How to Care for a Wooden Domino Set So It Lasts for Generations
A well-made wooden domino set will outlast the person who first unwraps it, provided it is treated with a little care. The good news is that care means very little work.
Keep the tiles dry. Wood responds poorly to damp, so avoid leaving a set in a cold conservatory or a humid kitchen over winter. After a long session, a quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth removes the oils left behind by handling and keeps the faces clean.
Store the set in its case with the lid closed. This protects the tiles from dust and knocks and stops them scattering in a cupboard. The mahogany cases on our double nine dominoes are built for exactly this, and returning tiles to their tray after each game becomes a satisfying ritual in itself.
Avoid harsh cleaners. Water and chemical sprays can lift finishes and dull the pips over time. If a tile needs more than a dry wipe, a barely damp cloth followed by immediate drying is enough.
Brass spinners, such as those on our triangle dominoes, occasionally benefit from a gentle polish to keep them turning smoothly, though many owners prefer the softened look that age brings.
Having made games since 1795, we have seen sets handed down through several generations, and the pattern is always the same: the sets that survive are the ones that are played with often and put away properly. Treat a good set well and it becomes part of the family, ready to join the rest of your traditional games each Christmas.
£31.99 · all-rounder · tested to UKCA/CE
£32.99 · gift · tested to UKCA/CE
£17.99 · value · tested to UKCA/CE
Shop the range: Best Christmas Gifts for Domino Fans
Our most relevant picks, made by a British family company since 1795.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Gifts For Domino Fans
What is the best domino set to buy as a Christmas gift?
The best domino set as a Christmas gift depends on who will be playing. A double-six set, containing 28 tiles, suits most households and is ideal for two to four players. For larger families or gatherings, a double-nine set with 55 tiles offers greater variety. If you want a premium gift, choose a set crafted from solid wood with clearly engraved or inlaid pips rather than printed markings. Jaques of London, established in 1795, produces traditional wooden domino sets that make a lasting, high-quality gift for any domino enthusiast.
Are wooden domino sets worth the money?
Wooden domino sets are well worth the investment for anyone serious about traditional games. Unlike plastic sets, quality wooden dominoes have a satisfying weight and feel, making handling and placing tiles a pleasure. The engraved or inlaid pip markings resist fading, ensuring the set remains playable for decades. A well-made wooden set also presents beautifully, arriving in a fitted box or case that makes it genuinely gift-worthy. For a keepsake-quality gift, wooden sets from established manufacturers represent considerably better value over their lifetime than cheaper alternatives.
What age are dominoes suitable for?
Dominoes are generally suitable for children aged five and upwards, though younger children enjoy using the tiles for simple stacking and toppling games. From around seven years old, children can comfortably follow the rules of standard domino games, building number-matching and strategic thinking skills. The game scales excellently into adulthood and old age, making it one of the few games genuinely suited to every generation. When gifting to younger children, check that individual tiles are large enough to handle easily and that the set meets relevant toy safety standards.
What should I look for in a good quality domino set?
A good quality domino set should have tiles made from solid wood, bone, or heavyweight resin rather than thin plastic. Look for pips that are engraved or inlaid rather than simply printed, as these will not wear away with regular use. The tiles should be uniform in size and thickness so they shuffle and stand evenly. A fitted storage box or case keeps the set organised and protected between games. Manufacturer reputation matters too — companies such as Jaques of London, founded in 1795, have long track records of producing durable, well-crafted traditional game sets.
How do I choose between a double-six and double-twelve domino set?
The choice between a double-six and double-twelve set largely depends on group size and desired complexity. A double-six set contains 28 tiles and works perfectly for two to four players, covering the most common domino games. A double-twelve set contains 91 tiles and is often recommended for four or more players, supporting a wider range of games with longer play sessions. For most households, a double-six set is the practical starting point. If the recipient regularly hosts larger gatherings or enjoys extended game evenings, a double-twelve set offers considerably more variety and replayability.
What is the difference between cheap and expensive domino sets?
Cheap domino sets are typically made from thin plastic with printed pips that fade or wear quickly. The tiles are often inconsistent in weight and size, which affects handling and game play. Expensive sets use durable materials such as solid wood, quality resin, or traditional bone-style composites, with engraved or inlaid pips that remain crisp after years of use. Premium sets also come in proper fitted cases rather than flimsy boxes. The higher cost reflects longevity and craftsmanship — a well-made set can last generations, making it significantly better value over time.
Can dominoes be played by two players or do you need a big group?
Dominoes plays perfectly well with just two players and is in fact a classic two-player game. The standard double-six set, containing 28 tiles, is well suited to head-to-head games such as Block Dominoes or Draw Dominoes. With two players each typically drawing seven tiles, the game is quick, strategic, and highly competitive. Larger sets such as double-nine (55 tiles) or double-twelve (91 tiles) are better suited to groups of four or more, but the core game requires no minimum group size beyond two willing players.
What are the best traditional board games to gift at Christmas?
The best traditional games to gift at Christmas are those with broad appeal across ages and group sizes. Dominoes, chess, draughts, backgammon, and card games all make excellent choices as they require no batteries, are easy to learn, and reward repeated play. A quality domino set suits virtually any household. Jaques of London, established in 1795, is one of the world's longest-running games manufacturers and produces a wide range of traditional games built to high standards — making their sets particularly appropriate as keepsake Christmas gifts for families and enthusiasts alike.
How many dominoes do you need for a full set?
The number of dominoes in a full set depends on the type. A standard double-six set contains 28 tiles and is the most commonly used. A double-nine set contains 55 tiles, suitable for larger groups. A double-twelve set contains 91 tiles, often recommended for four or more players. Each set is considered complete within its own format — there is no single universal number. When purchasing a set as a gift, confirm which format is included and ensure all tiles are present, as a set missing even one tile cannot be played correctly.
Are domino sets a good gift for adults or just for children?
Domino sets make an excellent gift for adults and are by no means limited to children. Many classic domino games involve genuine strategic thinking, scoring, and probability assessment that adults find deeply engaging. A premium wooden set makes a sophisticated gift for anyone who appreciates traditional craftsmanship and games with longevity. Dominoes also works beautifully as a family gift, bringing multiple generations together around one table. Jaques of London, established in 1795, has long produced domino sets appreciated by adult players who value quality materials and traditional game manufacture above novelty gifts.