FAQ's

1. How many National Bingo Game Association bingo clubs are there?
The National Bingo Game Association runs The National Bingo Game that links approximately 300 clubs across the country.


2. When did people start playing bingo in Britain?
It was in the 1960s that the British bingo halls became established. The Gaming Act of 1968 meant that games involving betting could only be played in member-only establishments.

The following year bingo began to be popularized across the United Kingdom. The popularity of TV meant that many theatres, cinemas and dancehalls sat empty. It was a masterstroke of bingo clubs to use these locations for bingo as it instantly gave the game an air of glamour, fun and excitement. New bingo halls were luxurious and dramatic, rather than simply pull balls from a bag, they installed glass cabinets filled with numbered balls.

The calling itself became a key aspect, with famous phrases such as 'two fat ladies' entering the language.

By the 1980s bingo had moved on and was able to offer life changing amounts of prize money through the creation of the National Bingo Game and offer linked games of bingo.  As the level of prize money increased player enthusiasm for the old 'bingo lingo' deminished and the licensed bingo industry was starting to move into purpose built venues, to meet increased customer expectations.

Today more than half of the licensed bingo clubs in the UK are modern purpose built venues, offering a high level of customer service in modern luxury environments. 

3. Is bingo just for old ladies?
Absolutely NOT! The people who play bingo come from many different walks of life. From celebrities like Denise Van Outen, Elle MacPherson, Atomic Kitten, Damon Hill, Bianca and Jade Jagger to tourists by the seaside.

The game is enjoyed throughout the United Kingdom by a diverse mix of people. Bingo brings a thrill to anybody who plays and is truly a game that anyone over the age of 18 years can play.


4. How much does it cost and how much can I win playing the National Bingo Game?
An average night out at bingo will cost £20, which includes tickets, food and drink, but excludes additional games (machines). The maximum regular prize on the National Bingo Game is £25,000 on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday night.  Click here for details of standard ticket prices and prizes.


5. Are bingo winnings taxed?
Bingo winnings are tax free.


6. Is there a dress code for getting into bingo clubs?
There is no dress code for bingo clubs as a whole, seaside clubs may however insist that gentleman replace their tops before entering.


7. Can I make a group booking to play at a bingo club?
Some clubs take group bookings and will do a special party package for large groups so it is always best to check the policy with your local clubs.


8. Do most bingo clubs have good wheelchair access and other facilities for people with disabilities?
The majority of clubs have excellent wheelchair access and assist those with disabilities, but it woudl be best to check with a club  in advance of your visit .


9. How long does it take for me to get my prize money after I win?
The National Bingo Game winner's cheque leaves the office 10 days after the win and is sent recorded delivery to the winning club, for the player to collect.


10. How can I find my local bingo club?
There are over 600 licensed bingo clubs in the United Kingdom, soem of which particiate in the National Bingo Game.  To find a participating club enter a town or postcode in the menu on the left to quickly and easily locate one near you.


11. How long does a bingo game take to play?
The average National Bingo Game lasts for under 10 minutes and is part of a number of games of bingo played during a session.  However, players often arrive two hours before the game starts, to enjoy a meal or chat with friends.


12. When was the National Bingo Game first played?
The first National Bingo Game was played in June 1986.


13. Does the National Bingo Game Association do anything for charity?
The licensed bingo industry supports Breakthrough Breast Cancer on an annual basis,  through the campaign Bingo for Breakthrough, organised by sister organisation The Bingo Association.

The campaign has been running since 2003 and has been awarded a Big Tick, the scheme that acknowledges excellence in social responsibility, run by Business in the Community.  Individual operators and clubs also undertake regional and local charity support throughout the year.