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Bowling has grown up in London, from retro neighbourhood alleys to slick boutique venues where the lanes come with cocktails and a kitchen. It is a reliable crowd-pleaser for groups, dates and rainy afternoons alike. This guide covers where to roll a strike in the city.
Boutique lanes and bowling bars
All Star Lanes, with venues including Brick Lane and Holborn, leads the boutique end, pairing American-diner food and cocktails with stylish lanes. Bloomsbury Bowling Lanes brings a retro, rock-and-roll vibe beneath a Bloomsbury hotel, complete with karaoke booths and a diner. Roxy Ball Room mixes bowling with beer pong, ping pong and other competitive socialising, aimed squarely at a lively night out.
Classic and family alleys
For a more traditional experience, Rowans in Finsbury Park is a beloved, great-value alley with a no-frills, come-as-you-are charm, and the Hollywood Bowl chain offers large, family-friendly centres across Greater London. In Bayswater, Queens combines a bowling alley with an ice rink, a fun two-in-one for a group. Most venues take bookings, which is wise at busy times.
Where is the best bowling in London?
For a stylish night out, All Star Lanes and Bloomsbury Bowling Lanes are the standouts, combining lanes with food and cocktails. For value and a retro feel, Rowans in Finsbury Park is a local favourite, while Hollywood Bowl centres suit families and larger groups.
Do you need to book bowling in London?
Booking ahead is recommended, especially in the evenings and at weekends when the boutique venues fill up. Walk-ins are sometimes possible at quieter times, but reserving a lane guarantees you will not have to wait.
Where to go next
For more indoor fun, see our guides to crazy golf in London and board game cafes, or browse more things to do in London.
