Regular readers of this site need no introduction to the rich history of bingo halls in the UK. When legislation was introduced in the first half of the twentieth century to allow larger prizes, the industry boomed across the UK and, in particular, in London. This led to a surge in London cinemas and theatres being converted into bingo halls, as they were large enough to accommodate the crowds.
The last few decades have seen a number of these historic venues close their doors as the game’s popularity went into decline and online bingo sites began to dominate. However, land-based venues are currently enjoying a huge resurgence in popularity, and there are still a number of iconic London bingo venues offering regular games for both traditional players and the new generation of players. Some of these venues are historic, while others are thoroughly modern. Read on to learn about some of the capital’s top bingo halls.
While not strictly a bingo hall, this Bavarian-themed pub located a few minutes walk from London Bridge tube station hosts regular games that are ideal for those seeking the three Bs: beer, bratwurst, and bingo.
Dabbers Bingo runs regular evenings at the Bermondsey Bierkeller complete with a vibrant and lively party atmosphere. The evenings bring together bingo, comedy, quizzes, singing, dancing, and the chance of incredible prizes.
In addition, you can explore two packed game halls that offer darts, table football, air hockey, shuffleboard, pool, and more. The menu is, of course, full of authentic German beers and foods, and the prices are extremely reasonable for central London.
If you are part of the new bingo generation looking for an exciting night out, then it is definitely worth checking the bingo schedule at this slice of Munich in London.
If you do want to visit one of London’s more historical bingo venues, then Buzz Tooting is a must see. The building dates back to 1931 and it was built as a Granada Cinema. Built in an Art Deco style, it has hosted some big-name performances over the years, ranging from Frank Sinatra to The Beatles to The Rolling Stones.
The grand main hall was for a long time considered the most spectacular cinema in Britain and its ornate decorations are almost as awe-inspiring as the bingo jackpots on offer. In fact, in a guide to London published in 1966, architectural critic Ian Nairn said of the building, “Miss the Tower of London if you have to, but don’t miss this”.
Today, it offers daily sessions, plenty of promotions and deals, delicious food & drinks, and a thrilling collection of slot machines. Between the excitement of the gaming and the beauty of the building, it promises to deliver an experience you’ll never forget.
Drag bingo has become hugely popular in the last few years, and one of the ultimate examples of this in the capital is the Buff Bingo Party Brunch.
It takes place every week at Fire & The Garden in Vauxhall, and it is always wild. The events are hosted and feature performances from the drag duo Taylor Trash and Herr The Queen. There are Boy Toy buff butlers on hand to ensure drinks are kept topped up while a resident DJ keeps the music playing so that you can drink and dance the afternoon away.
Tickets range from £16 to £54.95, depending on the package that you opt for. Those who go for the full experience will enjoy four hours of partying with a choice of food and 90 minutes of unlimited Prosecco, mimosas, cocktail jugs, rum punch, bottled beer, and more. Of course, there are also bingo games complete with jackpot prizes worth up to £200. In short, it is a bingo brunch experience like no other.
Events like these have contributed to making this social game highly preferable and have elevated these locations to iconic London bingo venues.