Casino Games Guides

At Gala of Games, we play the classic 21-style Blackjack you'd find in any proper UK casino. Don’t worry if you’ve never played – we’ll guide you step-by-step on the night!

Blackjack Basics:

1. Your aim:
   Get as close to 21 as possible – without going over.
   You’re playing against the dealer, not other guests.

   If you go over 21 – that’s called a bust, and you're out that round.
   

2. The cards:

   • Number cards = face value (e.g. a 7 is worth 7)

   • Picture cards (Jacks, Queens, Kings) = 10

   • Aces = 1 or 11 – whichever helps your hand more without 'busting'
     

3. How it works:

   • You’re dealt two cards face up.

   • The dealer gets one card face up.

   • You decide to:

     • Hit – request another card

     • Stand– keep your current cards

     • Double – double your stake, take one more card only

     • Split – if your first two cards are a pair, play them as two separate hands

4. The dealer’s turn:
   Once all players have finished, the dealer must draw until reaching 17 or more.

5. Winning the round:

   • If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s – you win!

   • If the dealer busts – all remaining players win.

   • A natural 21 with your first two cards (Ace + 10) is a Blackjack – and it wins automatically! Paying 2 to 1!

6. Winnings are paid, loses are taken, the cards cleared, and the next hand begins.

Tips & Terms:

• Don't chase 21 everytime! Sometimes sticking with 16 is better than pushing your luck

• If your hand is 11 or under, you should almost always hit (or Double!)

• If you're on 17 or higher, it's usually best to stick.

• If you have 12–16 and the dealer shows a low card (2–6), it’s often best to stand and let them risk going bust.

Our fun casino hire makes learning and playing both easy and enjoyable — welcoming experts and newbies alike. We hope this guide has boosted your confidence and inspired you to add blackjack to your party! Ready to bring the excitement? Contact us today to book our professional fun casino hire service for your next event.