A 7ft pool table is the English Pool Association’s regulation size, and a popular choice for play in homes worldwide. There are two types of pool table, English and American. The 7ft pool table would be considered a large English pool table, but it is the smallest American pool table you will find.
Pool originated in America, where it was played in vast pool halls with ample space for these large tables. American pool tables can be found in up to 10ft lengths, so the space needed for them is considerable. When pool was brought to the UK, pool tables had to compete with patrons, dart boards and tables for space in the pubs they were introduced to, and therefore the tables were made smaller. Although you do get some English pool tables in 8ft sizes, they are usually only available in 6ft or 7ft.
7ft Pool Table Uses
A 7ft table is ideal for home play, although small children may struggle with the distances. A smaller table will be easier for kids and beginners to play on, as the shorter distances are more forgiving on the amateur player. Before you buy a small table to suit the children, remember that they will grow – and you don’t want to have to 
replace your table in the near future. It may be preferable to let them struggle for a little while until they do grow a few inches, or if you can afford it, get a smaller kids pool table for them to play on in the meantime.
In English Pool terms, a 7ft table is the bigger table, used in tournaments and competitions regulated by the EPA. For playing at home, you will need 5ft of clear space around the table for comfortable play. This means your room will have to be at least 17ft long to accommodate a 7ft pool table, and 14 ft wide. English pool is played with balls that are 2 inches in diameter, with pockets to suit. Your pool table will often be supplied with 48 inch cues, suitable for the average amateur player.
American 7ft Pool Table
An American 7ft pool table will have bigger pool balls, slightly bigger cues and of course bigger pockets in the table to accommodate the 2 ¾ inch balls. American pool is played with balls marked as spots or stripes, where each player must sink all of their balls before sinking the black ball to win the game. British or English pool is played with seven red balls and seven yellow balls, either in eight ball or nine ball pool. Today all three varieties are played on both types of tables, and the preference is personal rather than dictated by the type of table you buy.
A 7ft table may need more than one overhead light to provide even lighting across the whole table, and this should be considered when you purchase the table as well. Too much light can cause glaring, and too little can make it difficult to get your depth perception right. Bigger tables need more light, with some tables featuring two and even three overhead lights.
A 7ft pool table is ideal for home use, large enough to provide a challenging game without making it too difficult for beginners and children. If you have the space to accommodate a 7ft pool table, it will prove a good investment, providing hours of fun for family and friends. And if anyone really takes to the game, they’ll have practiced on the tournament regulation size – and be ready for the big time.
