In a world where gaming is dominated by flashy screens and fast-paced action, it’s refreshing to see young adults discovering the charm of a classic game: bingo. Two 18-year-olds, Lucy Lonnen and Aleksa Svencika, recently made headlines after visiting the last standing bingo hall in Cambridgeshire, proving that this age-old game is attracting a fresh wave of fans.
Their visit to Buzz Bingo in Peterborough wasn’t just a novelty — it was the realization of something they had looked forward to for years. “I’ve always wanted to try live bingo once I turned 18,” said Svencika. “It was harder than I thought to keep up, but I loved the energy in the room.”
Buzz Bingo manager Dan Shuttleworth, a veteran of the bingo industry, believes the game is evolving. “We’re adapting, investing, and creating a more social experience. It’s affordable fun — two hours for around £6 — and it appeals to all ages,” he said.
The bingo landscape in the UK has certainly changed. The recent closure of Winners Bingo in Wisbech marked the end of an era, leaving Peterborough’s venue as the final dedicated bingo center in the county. Factors like the pandemic, rising energy costs, and higher employment expenses have made it tough for smaller halls to survive.
Still, there’s hope. Community members like Margaret Heaney, who has been playing since the 1970s, say younger players are joining the fold. “It’s not just for older people anymore. I see more young faces every week,” she noted.
Online bingo may be gaining popularity, but there’s something unique about the live experience — the thrill of the numbers, the chatter, and the shared anticipation of a win. Whether you’re 18 or 80, bingo continues to be a low-risk, high-reward social game that unites generations.
