Get ready for a celebration of flicks, saves, and Subbuteo glory! The iconic tabletop football game is returning to its birthplace, Tunbridge Wells, for the 2024 Subbuteo World Cup. Everything you need to know, from where to play Subbuteo to winning prizes on our trails (for all ages), and exploring the must-see exhibition at the Amelia Scott, our guide has you covered.
What is Subbuteo?
Subbuteo, a beloved tabletop football game, was invented in 1947 by Peter Adolph in Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells. The game’s name is derived from the Latin name for the Eurasian hobby, a swift bird of prey. Adolph’s initial design featured cardboard players on circular bases with lead weights. Over the years, Subbuteo evolved with the introduction of three-dimensional plastic players, different playing surfaces, and accessories. Today, it is played worldwide!
New to the game of Subbuteo? Dive into the history of this beloved pastime with this article.
While you’re in town, delve deeper into Subbuteo’s rich heritage with a special exhibition, talks, behind-the-scenes tour and walking tour organised by Amelia. Learn fascinating facts and see iconic Subbuteo memorabilia firsthand. Keep reading to find out more!
When and where is the Subbuteo world cup?
The Subbuteo World Cup kicks off on Friday, September 20th, 2024, and runs until Sunday, September 22nd. Teams from all corners of the globe, from the UK and Europe to Australia, Japan, and the Americas, will be vying for the coveted trophy.
Friday, September 20th
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- Subbuteo World Cup – Individual Event (Old Rules Event) – Royal Victoria Shopping Centre, 9am – 6pm
Saturday, September 21st
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- Eland Cables FISTF World Cup – Individual Events – Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 8am – 8pm
- Subbuteo World Cup – Team Event – Royal Victoria Shopping Centre, 10am – 5pm
- Subbuteo Flats World Cup – Individual Event – Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 9:30am – 6pm
Sunday, September 22nd
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- Eland Cables FISTF World Cup – Team Event – Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 8am – 8pm
- Subbuteo World Cup Family Fun Day – Royal Victoria Shopping Centre, 9am – 6pm
Head to the Royal Victoria Shopping Centre and the Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre for a festive atmosphere filled with Subbuteo action. Witness the international stars compete and soak up the excitement! Entry is free.
Where can I play Subbuteo?
Eager to try your hand at Subbuteo? Head to these locations:
The Amelia Scott, Open Subbuteo Pitches: Throughout the tournament, Amelia will be hosting open pitches where anyone can have a friendly match. Available every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the exhibition.
Royal Victoria Place, Subbuteo World Cup Family Fun Day: Don’t miss the chance to play on the same pitches as the champions! The English Subbuteo Association will be hosting a fun day on Sunday, September 22nd, at the Royal Victoria Shopping Centre. This free event is open to all ages and abilities, with expert players on hand to guide and coach newcomers.
Subbuteo Goal Shoot, Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre
Bend it like Beckham in our Subbuteo Goal Shoot game! You’ll find 20 of these dotted within various businesses around Royal Tunbridge Wells this September. They may even be accompanied by the opportunity to win prizes. Keep an eye on our social media channels for locations dotted across the town centre.
More Things to do to celebrate the Subbuteo World Cup
Make your trip to Tunbridge Wells even more memorable with these exciting activities.
Small Subbuteo figurine hunt (yours to keep)
Keep your eyes peeled for 100 hidden Subbuteo figurines scattered around Royal Tunbridge Wells! Want to know the best part? You get to keep these mini figurines as a souvenir.
Follow daily hints on our social media to track them down (Subbuteo hunt starts Friday, September 13th).
Spot the GIANT Gold Subbuteo figurine (competition)
To celebrate the Subbuteo World Cup 2024, RTW Together are giving you ten chances to win a £20 Fenwick voucher! Every day between the 13th and 22nd September, the team will be hiding a giant Subbuteo figure around Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre for you to find. To enter the competition, all you need to do is take a selfie with the figurine and post it on social media (being sure to tag @RTWTogether).
The first ten people to find the figurine will be entered into a prize draw with a new randomly selected winner announced each day!
Look out for hints on:
Instagram @Visit_TunbridgeWells and @RTWTogether
Facebook Visit Tunbridge Wells
Take a Closer Look Behind the Scenes and Walking Tour
Dive into the fascinating world of Subbuteo with our “Take a Closer Look” experience. Begin with an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into our Subbuteo exhibition, exploring the story behind the invention of Subbuteo and its creator, Peter Adolph. Getting up and personal with the Boy’s Own advert that started it all!
Followed by a walking tour to discover how Subbuteo became an all-town effort to turn this game into an internationally renowned sport.
Learn about the local people that hand painted the figures and the factories that even recorded a song in a celebration of game. The event will take approximately 1 hr 30 min and will end in the Pantiles.
You are then welcome to stay and enjoy exploring the historic street or return with the team to The Amelia Scott.
Walking will take place on pavements but will require a walk up a large hill when returning to the Amelia Scott. Please wear the appropriate shoes and clothes for the weather.
Saturday, September 21st 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM & 4:15 PM – 5:45 PM
Saturday, November 23rd 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Curator Talks at the Amelia Scott
Dive into the miniature world of Subbuteo at our exhibition Curator Talk. Unearth the history and passion behind this iconic tabletop football game. From flicks to goals, explore the cultural impact and the intricate art of strategy that has made Subbuteo a beloved pastime for generations. Talk given by the Collections Team.
Saturday, September 28th at 2:00 PM
Get ready for the nostalgia and excitement of Subbuteo!! Shop the official merchandise below.
and much more!
