Bingo has been and continues to be one of the most popular games in the UK. Not many have seemingly been around for what feels like forever, which have also transcended generations of families. There is no doubt that with the inception of the internet and speedy connectivity, the best online bingo sites have prospered and enjoy a diverse and growing player-base. However, like most institutions that have stood the test the time, actual bingo halls have die-hard supporters. So it is no surprise that in Essex, bingo remains a must-play game in its most traditional format, which is why there are still some excellent bingo halls to visit.
Buzz Bingo, Colchester
We’re kicking off this list with the Colchester Branch of Buzz Bingo, which is a prime example of for the argument that nothing can replace the buzz and authentic feel of a land-based bingo experience. Buzz Bingo in Colchester creates the perfect buzz for bingo players by running affordable multiple sessions and providing huge jackpot prizes and even special deals for new players to take advantage of. And, unlike many other bingo halls, this one stays open until the early hours.
Mecca Bingo, Dagenham
Mecca Bingo, as far as bingo brands go, is one of the most recognisable and trusted in the UK. There are Mecca Bingo halls all over the country, and several located in Essex, such as the one in Dagenham. With Mecca being old hands at this, they know what bingo players want, and they deliver it. So again, multiple sessions are available to play from opening to close; there’s a licensed bar, a great chance to socialise, and the fun doesn’t end when the doors to the venue are closed, as Mecca runs a fantastic online bingo service too.
Rio Bingo, Canvey Island
Rio Bingo may not have the country-wide reputation of brands such as Buzz Bingo and Mecca Bingo, but it more than holds its own in the towns its located, with this particular venue situated in Essex’s Canvey Island. If players enjoy playing bingo in a bingo hall with a more traditional look and feel, Rio is the place to be, with multiple sessions running most days of the week. At Rio Bingo, enjoying yourself is affordable, which is always a great sign, and again, there are some great prizes to be won. Like other brands, there’s online bingo for when no sessions are running.
Buzz Bingo, Basildon
It’s another entry for Buzz Bingo; this time, the Basildon branch gets a mention. For anyone new to the bingo scene, Buzz Bingo was formerly Gala Bingo, probably the most well-known bingo brand in the country. The Basildon branch of Buzz Bingo happens to be one of the biggest and best in Essex and beyond, and it again offers all the perks of the Colchester site, but it’s also worth noting there’s the online Buzz Bingo service running alongside, there’s a licensed bar on site and all that good stuff too.
Some people naturally prefer to play bingo exclusively online because of all the benefits that come with it. But by visiting bingo halls, there’s the in-person social element that can’t be replicated in the online world. Land-based bingo venues are also doing a great job bridging the gap between offline and online bingo.