TLDR: Learn more about the Traditional Games on offer at the Manor Resort in Devon - Welly Whanging, Bat & Trap and Uber Quoits.
Some activities need no complicated tactics, specialist kit or weeks of practice. A target, something to throw or hit, and a willingness to have a go are often enough. That is the appeal of three of the more unusual games on the Manor & Ashbury activity programme: Bat and Trap, Welly Whanging and Uber Quoits.
They sit comfortably among the traditional British games that bring people together outdoors. Each has its own character, but all three are approachable for complete beginners.
Bat and Trap: a Kentish pub game
Bat and Trap is closely associated with Kent. Historical accounts differ over exactly when it began, so it is better described as a long-standing Kentish game than given a precise birthday.
The distinctive piece of equipment is the trap: a small mechanical device with a lever. The batter taps the lever with a bat, making a ball jump into the air, and then tries to strike it between two posts. Fielders stand beyond the posts. If the ball is not caught, a fielder bowls it back towards the trap. In traditional versions, the batter scores when the bowler misses and is out when the trap is hit.
It can look unfamiliar for the first few minutes, but the sequence soon makes sense: spring the ball, strike it, then defend the trap. The most common beginner mistake is swinging before the ball has risen to a comfortable height. A calm, well-timed hit is more useful than trying to hit as hard as possible.
Welly Whanging: the simplest idea of the three
Welly Whanging—also commonly written welly wanging—is exactly what it sounds like: throwing a Wellington boot for distance or towards a marked target. It became a familiar sight at British village fêtes during the twentieth century. Several places and events have their own origin stories and rules, so its precise birthplace belongs more to sporting folklore than settled history.
Local formats vary. Some allow a run-up; others use a standing throw. You may see an overarm launch, an underarm swing or even a two-handed technique. During a resort session, the activity instructor will explain the throwing line and scoring system in use that day.
For a first attempt, concentrate on a smooth release and keeping the boot within the marked area. Spinning as fast as possible usually makes direction harder to control. It is one of those games to play outside with friends where an unexpected landing can be as entertaining as a winning throw.
Uber Quoits: a friendly ring-toss challenge
Quoits is the broad name for games in which rings are thrown towards a pin or target. Traditional iron quoits, rope quoits and modern garden quoits do not all share one set of rules.
The beginner-friendly principle is consistent: stand behind the line and throw each quoit so that it lands over, or as close as possible to, the target. A ringer normally earns the best score, while nearby rings may earn fewer points. The resort instructor will set out the exact distances and scoring for Uber Quoits before play begins.
A flatter, controlled throw is often more accurate than a high, forceful one. Aim through the pin rather than at the ground immediately in front of it, and use the first throw to judge distance.
Which game should you try first?
Choose Bat and Trap if you like batting and fielding games, Welly Whanging if you want immediate, light-hearted fun, or Uber Quoits if accuracy appeals more than speed. None requires previous experience.
Activities and session times can vary by break. Check the current programme and booking information before your stay, then let the instructor talk you through the house rules. Trying something unfamiliar is part of the fun.
