Ten pin bowling is one of the easiest indoor activities to plan for families, groups and rainy days. Centres across the UK offer bowling for children and adults, often alongside food, arcades and other activities.
Use this guide to find bowling centres around the UK and get a better idea of what to expect, including family sessions, group bookings, prices, accessibility and practical tips before you visit.
Bowling works for pretty much any occasion — family days out, birthday celebrations, a rainy afternoon with the kids, a group evening out or just something different to do on a UK break. Most bowling centres also have food, drinks, arcade games and other activities on site, making them great value for a few hours of entertainment.
Bowling centres can get busy at weekends and during school holidays — it’s always worth booking your lane in advance online to avoid a wait.
Which Bowling Session Is Right for You?
For families: Look for centres with lighter bowling balls, ramps or bumpers for younger children, plus family-friendly session times.
For a rainy day: Bowling is a reliable all-weather option and works well when outdoor plans are disrupted.
For teenagers and groups: Evening sessions, music, food and arcade areas can make bowling a better fit for older children, friends and parties.
For accessibility: Many modern bowling centres provide step-free access and adapted equipment, but facilities vary by venue so it is worth checking before booking.
Tenpin — UK’s Largest Bowling Chain
Tenpin Bowling Centres
Tenpin is the UK’s largest bowling chain with over 50 venues across England, Scotland and Wales. Whatever part of the country you’re in, there’s almost certainly a Tenpin nearby. Modern lanes, great lighting effects, food and drink, arcade games and party packages make Tenpin a brilliant choice for families, groups and anyone looking for a fun few hours indoors.
Find Your Nearest Tenpin
Tenpin in Scotland
Tenpin has several venues across Scotland including Dunfermline, Edinburgh and Glasgow. A brilliant indoor option for families and groups exploring Scotland — particularly useful on one of those days when the weather isn’t playing ball, which in Scotland can happen at any time of year!
Find Tenpin Scotland VenuesWhat to Expect at a Bowling Centre
Bowling Lanes
Play in small groups taking turns to knock down the pins. Lane bumpers are available for younger children so the ball stays out of the gutter — a game-changer for little ones!
Food, Drinks & Arcade Games
Most bowling centres have a good range of food and drinks — from quick snacks to proper meals. Arcade game areas are popular with children and add extra value to the visit.
Parties & Group Bookings
Bowling is a brilliant birthday party venue for children and adults alike. Most centres offer party packages including lanes, food and arcade credits. Book well in advance for weekend parties.
Tips for a Great Bowling Visit
Book in advance — bowling centres get very busy at weekends, evenings and during school holidays. Booking your lane online in advance means you go straight to your lane when you arrive rather than waiting.
Check for deals before you book — most bowling centres offer online booking discounts, family deals, off-peak prices and meal-and-bowling bundles. It’s always worth checking the website before turning up on the day.
Ask for bumpers for young children — lane bumpers stop the ball going into the gutter and keep younger children involved and enjoying the game. Most venues provide them for children up to around 10 years old.
Allow a bit longer than you think — a game of bowling for four people takes around 45 minutes to an hour. If you add food, arcade games and a second game, you could easily fill two or three hours — great value for a family afternoon out.
Check for special events — many bowling centres run themed evenings, cosmic bowling (with UV lights and music), late-night sessions and special offers throughout the year. Worth checking what’s on when you plan to visit.
More indoor days out: Ice Skating • Snow Centres • Waterparks • Go Underground • Museums & Galleries
Where to stay nearby: Hotels • Holiday Cottages • Last Minute Breaks