Football and wrestlingare very popular but are both very rough, and players often get seriously injured. Because of this, King James I, in the early 17th century, forbade anybody at his court to play these violent games. Other popular games are battledore, shuttlecock, leapfrog, see-saw, and bowling the hoop. Those who live by a river or a stream learn how to swim, and fishing is also a very common pastime. Tennis and billiards are played in noble households, but ordinary people do not play them during this time.
Archery is enjoyed by people of all ages, and most people have their own bows.
Falconry is very common but mostly enjoyed by adults rather than children. In falconry, dogs are used to disturb wild birds. These wild birds are then attacked by falcons. Children also have a certain amount of toys at home to play with. Rocking horses and all kinds of toy animals are common, and boys usually have toy soldiers.