Skittles is a traditional game that has been played for centuries in the inns of England. There are many variations on the basic game, which is to knock skittles down with a ball or some other object. Table skittles, like the game shown here, started in the 18th century when pub landlords began to miniaturise the game so that it could be played on a tabletop, and did not need much space. It was a game for working people.

The set of table skittles shown here has been made out of pieces of equipment from the spinning and weaving industry. Although made quite recently, it uses items that are at least 80 years old. In the past, damaged or discarded items from the weaving and spinning industry were often salvaged by the workers. They used these items to make games for themselves or their children.