Despite the continuous expansion of online gaming, playing physical bingo has remained popular. Aside from being able to call “BINGO,” going to a local bingo hall offers social interaction.
If you've always played online but want to have a feel of what a local bingo offers you, the UK is home to a variety of options. That's why this guide will show you where to find the best local bingo halls around you. We'll also share why you should choose in-person bingo over online bingo. Now, let's get started.
Bingo has remained a popular pastime for bettors in the UK. For most people, nothing compares to the thrill that comes with the game. Apart from the anticipation of winning a prize, players visit a bingo hall to have a good time.
A bingo hall is a place where bingo games are hosted. Players purchase bingo cards or tickets and mark off their cards as the numbers are called out. To keep up with technology, many bingo halls now feature electronic bingo machines, making it easier for players to play and track more cards.
It offers more than just winning or entertainment. A bingo hall serves as a community, especially for older adults. Many organisations also use bingo halls for fundraising.
Are you ready to explore some bingo halls around you? Here are some options to explore in the UK.
Admiral Bingo has been in existence for approximately 40 years, having started under the brand name Luxury Leisure Holdings LTD in 1989. It was acquired by Novomatic in 2014 and rebranded to Admiral in 2016.
Admiral was initially associated with arcade slots but has evolved to include other games, such as bingo. Admiral has 5 bingo halls across the UK, some of which you can try out.
If you're looking for a friendly and casual bingo hall, Cashino Gaming is your best bet. Its history dates back to 2007, when it was established as an adult gaming centre by Praesepe PLC. While it initially focused on slots and machines, Casino Gaming introduced bingo between 2016 and 2017 to diversify into high-street entertainment. The brand has 48 different bingo halls across the UK.
Gala Bingo was once the largest bingo operator in the UK before it was acquired by Caledonia Investments in 2015. This led to the rebranding of physical Gala Bingo clubs into Buzz Bingo in 2018. However, the name “Gala Bingo” is still very much recognised by the UKGC, with over 93 Gala Bingo registered.
As part of the Novomatic Group, Luxury Leisure manages several gaming brands, including Admiral and Quicksilver. Luxury Leisure officially launched in 1989 and has remained relevant to date. It runs over 230 venues in the UK, mainly as an adult gaming centre. However, Luxury Leisure also has 19 bingo halls across the UK.
Mecca Bingo is one of the pioneers of bingo halls in the UK, following the legalisation of commercial bingo in 1961. Currently owned by Rank Group PLC, Mecca Bingo venues offer a unique experience compared to other halls. It doubles as a social club with cabaret entertainment, food, and drinks. As of now, Mecca Bingo has 61 halls across the UK
Merkur Bingo operates under the Gauselmann Group, a company founded in 1957. It offers not only traditional paper bingo but also electronic bingo. While the number of Merkur bingo halls across the UK might not be as many as Buzz Bingo or Mecca Bingo, 23 are available.
Opera Bingo operates quite differently from other bingo halls, such as Merkur Bingo and Admiral Bingo. It is a community-focused bingo operation, with a regional rather than national scope. Opera Bingo serves the people of the North West of England and Cumbria and is operated under the Top Ten/Majestic Bingo Group. Bettors will find 5 Opera Bingo halls in this region.
The digitalisation of gaming in the early 2000s has changed how players gamble. Many now prefer to bet online because it's easier, faster, and accessible. With mobile phones and WiFi, players can play bingo even when on the go. They don't have to go through the inconvenience of locating a local bingo hall. Thankfully, many top betting sites have incorporated bingo into their casino sections.
Despite the convenience that online bingo offers, nothing beats the social interaction at an in-person bingo. Players not only go to bingo halls to win prizes but also to socialise. It's not just a game but a social night out where people gather to chat, drink, eat, and enjoy the atmosphere, especially when there is a live band.
In-person bingo is also an avenue for them to be a part of a community. Older adults often visit bingo halls to find a sense of belonging. Aside from socialisation, community centres, sports clubs, and schools host charity bingo nights to raise funds. They can channel these funds for school trips, youth clubs or medical causes.
Although you may experience a sense of community while playing bingo in a local hall, always remember to practice responsible gambling. Refrain from buying too many tickets at a go and only buy with the money you can afford to lose. If possible, have a monthly budget and remain disciplined.
In case you're getting addicted to gambling, kindly sign up with the GamStop self-exclusion programme to stay off gambling for some time. Additionally, please note that you must be 18 years of age or older to gain access to a bingo hall. You'll be asked to show your government-issued ID to verify your age.
FAQs: Local Bingo UK