Bingo Buzz: Shrewsbury Shuts, Swansea Gives Back, and a Tax Break on the Horizon

_{Bingo is transforming for a new generation of players. (Image: Steve Lindridge/Alamy)}

From hall closures to community fundraisers, the UK bingo scene is still full of surprises, even before the tax change kicks in. Bingo isn't dead it is just getting a makeover and going through changes as a new generation discovers the game of bingo. 

Bingo Formats Are Evolving, And People Love It

Beyond the classic format, UK bingo fans are embracing newer entertainment-based versions of the game. Hybrid events that blend bingo with music, quizzes or themed dinners are gaining traction.

Event organisers say these hybrid nights are a hit because they offer social value, entertainment, and a chance to give back, all in one.

Even as online bingo grows, traditional and community-based bingo events still play a major role in both the industry’s revenue mix and the UK’s cultural life.

Shrewsbury Hall to Close After Decades of Games

Buzz Bingo has confirmed that its long-standing venue in Shrewsbury will permanently close at the end of January, with the final session scheduled for 31 Jan. The site has been a community hub for years, and news of the closure has prompted emotional farewells from regulars.

This isn’t just one venue’s story, it reflects a wider shift across the UK, where traditional bingo halls continue to face tough economic pressures and changing entertainment habits.

Historic closures like Winners Bingo in Wisbech previously sparked local campaigns to preserve community spaces. Now, Shrewsbury adds to the list of beloved venues being lost.

Bingo Duty Scrapped: Relief for Land-Based Clubs

There may be brighter days ahead for the UK’s remaining bingo halls. In a move hailed by industry leaders, the UK government has announced it will scrap Bingo Duty in April 2026.

The Bingo Association described the decision as potentially transformative, particularly for the approximately 250 clubs still operating across the country. The tax relief could support venue survival, protect jobs, and allow more investment in local programming.

Swansea Charity Bingo Serves Up Wins for All

At Mecca Bingo on Carmarthen Road in Swansea, players recently gathered for more than just numbers. A charity lunch event earlier this month raised money for local causes One Step and 2nd Time Around.

The session included Sunday lunch, live entertainment, and of course, bingo. All proceeds from ticket sales went directly to the charities.

Bingo Nights Still a Go-To for Fundraisers

Across the UK, charity bingo continues to be a crowd-puller. Community centres, churches and school halls regularly play host to games that bring people together while raising money for local causes.

One recent example: a bingo night in Salisbury generated around £500 for the Salisbury Hospital’s Stars Appeal. The event was held at a local Catholic hall and attracted a strong turnout.

These grassroots fundraisers are proof that bingo, simple, inclusive, and fun, is still one of the most effective ways to build community and support good causes.