More Than Just a Gaming Club
Exploding Dice is a registered charity (NIC 108201) and community space in the heart of Bangor, run entirely by volunteers. We opened our doors in 2019 with a simple belief: that tabletop gaming can change lives.
Registered with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland — NIC 108201
For many of our members, this club is their third space — somewhere beyond home and work where they can switch off, be themselves, and connect with others who share their passion. In a world where loneliness and social isolation are growing challenges, we provide a place where people can walk in as strangers and leave as friends.
A Space for Wellbeing
Tabletop gaming is by its nature a deeply social hobby, and it gives many of us an outlet from the stresses of day-to-day life. Research shows that regular tabletop gaming helps reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The simple act of sitting across a table from someone — rolling dice, sharing stories, and laughing together — is powerful medicine. Our club exists to make that experience accessible to everyone.
Why It Matters
1 in 4 people will experience a mental health challenge at some point in their lives. Social isolation can have a significant impact on both mental and physical wellbeing. Tabletop gaming clubs like ours provide:
- Meaningful social connection — Regular face-to-face interaction in a low-pressure, welcoming environment
- A sense of belonging — Being part of a community that notices when you are not there and checks in on you
- Mindfulness and stress relief — The focused engagement of painting miniatures, planning strategy, or immersing yourself in a story
- Confidence building — Learning new skills, teaching others, and finding your voice in a supportive group
- A reason to get out of the house — Something to look forward to, a commitment that gets you through the door
Our Facilities
- 15 Full-Size Gaming Tables — A mix of 6×4 wargaming tables and 4×4 skirmish/board game tables
- Terrain & Play Mats — A large collection of themed play mats and painted terrain available for all members
- Board Game Library — Board games available to play during your visit
- Demo Games — Demonstration games can be arranged on request for anyone wanting to try a new system
What We Play
Our members play a huge range of tabletop games including Warhammer 40,000, Age of Sigmar, The Old World, Horus Heresy, Kill Team, Necromunda, Adeptus Titanicus, Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game, Star Wars Legion, Marvel Crisis Protocol, A Song of Ice and Fire, Dungeons & Dragons, and many more. But what game you play matters far less than the fact that you are here, with people, doing something you enjoy.
Events & Competitions
We regularly host tournaments and campaign days, particularly on weekends. Events include single-day competitions and multi-day Grand Tournaments across various game systems. Tickets are available through our SumUp ticket store.
Not for Profit, For Community
Every penny of membership fees and event income goes directly back into the club — maintaining equipment, buying terrain, keeping the lights on, and keeping the doors open. We do not exist to make money. We exist to provide a space where people can come together, have fun, and look after each other.
Exploding Dice is run by a dedicated committee of volunteers who give their time because they believe in what this place does for people. If you would like to get involved, support us, or just come and say hello, please get in touch.
The community side of the hobby is the part that has the potential to have the biggest positive impact.