The gaming world has had an injection of cool with the addition of bingo clubs that have popped up all across the country, bringing a new wave of players to the popular game. Far from the traditional smoky halls favoured by the older generation of yesteryear, the new breed of clubs boast trendy clientele, pumping music from the hottest DJ’s, chic cocktails and hidden locations across the UK.

The experience ranges from gay bingo, where the caller presents in drag and the rules are always bent; to exclusive clubs held at secret locations for every game and a distinctly ‘naughty’ atmosphere. Players wanting to enjoy a few games of bingo along with a drink or three can see and be seen at these popular clubs, for an entirely new bingo experience that goes far beyond the usual games enjoyed for so many generations.

One of the most popular underground clubs is Rebel Bingo, which attracts London’s trendiest bingo players, including more than a few ‘A list’ celebrities such as Peaches Geldof. Players join the mailing list to get updates on the latest bingo events, and find out where the secret locations are each weekend. On arrival, players enjoy a drink or two before heading to the bingo room where they can buy their cards.

After a few rounds of bingo, players then head upstairs to dance the night away, as leading DJ’s spin the hottest tracks on the decks and bars serve up decadent cocktails all night. As the events are never held at the same location, there is an added element of fun and secrecy involved that makes the evenings even more alluring for players.

Does this mean that the traditional bingo halls are dying out, and what does this mean for old fashioned halls across the country? Well, the good news for these halls is that they are attracting a different generation, and a different age group. Even though the younger generation prefers to enjoy their bingo the ‘cool’ way, the older generation are still enjoying their weekly sessions at their local hall – where many of them have been playing for a decade or more. Online bingo is also joining the bandwagon, giving even more options for players regardless of their location.