How it began

The Inspiration Behind the Mr McGregor’s Garden Board Game

If you’ve ever wondered how the Mr McGregor’s Garden board game came to life, the story begins with family, imagination, and a little spark of nostalgia.

In 2022, my wife and I spent several months visiting our son’s family in Canada. During that time, we played countless board games with our four-year-old granddaughter, Sophie. One of her favourite games featured rabbits racing toward a giant carrot, with hidden traps that sent them tumbling through the board. The element of surprise made every round exciting—and unforgettable.

As a parent of four, the game instantly reminded me of reading Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit to my children. I had read that classic so many times I could quote it from memory. Watching the rabbits fall into traps brought back vivid memories of Peter Rabbit exploring (and often escaping from) the dangers of Mr McGregor’s garden.

That moment of connection sparked the idea: “What if Peter Rabbit could hop off the page and into a game?”

From there, the concept for the Mr McGregor’s Garden board game began to grow. My wife and I spent months testing early versions with Sophie, adjusting the gameplay and refining the experience. Her reactions helped shape a family-friendly game that’s genuinely enjoyable for all generations.

The best part for me? Seeing her mischievous smile every time she manages to place Mr. McGregor’s hat on her grandfather’s Peter Rabbit miniature.

And yes—somehow, she always wins.