History of Bingo Halls in Ireland
Bingo halls were first introduced in Italy as a lottery-like game in 1530. The bingo craze swiftly expanded throughout Europe before making its way to Ireland.
In the 1960s, the Catholic Church brought bingo to Ireland, where it quickly gained popularity, and a flurry of bingo halls followed. Irish people have always been avid gamblers, spending billions of euros annually on various gambling activities. It offered a fun night out where folks could mingle, drink, and win big.
The Bingo Culture in Ireland
Traditional Irish bingo halls have been famous since they appeared in the middle of the 20th century. Online platforms are now just as popular, with many players wanting to play on the go.
Because of the increasing demand, more bingo hall owners are opening their doors online. Register, deposit, and play bingo at any online casino, and instantly withdraw your real money winnings.
Cost, Gameplay, and Everything Bingo!
Over the past 60 years, bingo has maintained its dominance in Ireland. Luckily, the COVID times are now over, and all bingo halls in the country may reopen. We have gathered everything you need to know about bingo.
Cost of Playing Bingo
Over 3 million Irish players enjoy bingo weekly, making it a popular leisure time. Irish bingo players spend around €14 per week on the game. You can buy extra cards that may add up to €20 and above.
In Ireland, bingo halls employ over 5000 people and contribute over €200 million in annual turnover. It amounts to the entire bingo sector being worth more than one billion euros.
The Bingo Gameplay
Bingo is a game of chance where participants check off the numbers on their cards as they are picked randomly by a bingo caller. Every 9x3 card has five numbers and four empty spaces in each row.
Irish bingo rooms offer various games, such as conventional, speed, and electronic bingo. The 90-ball game, which has balls with numbers one to ninety, is customarily played in Ireland.
Regulatory Body in Ireland
The Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 regulates bingo halls in Ireland. Ireland has strong laws and guidelines that bingo halls must adhere to. The Gambling Control Commission oversees these bingo halls, and each one needs a license.
Most Popular Bingo Halls in Ireland 2024
There are more than 350 bingo clubs and halls in the UK, albeit this figure is ever-changing. With more than 100 bingo halls in Ireland, most of which are in Dublin, we've compiled a list of the top eight that provide exciting promotions, daily draws, and big prizes.
1. Jack Potts Bingo in Dublin
In Crumlin, Dublin, Jack Potts Bingo is spacious with 650 seats. It features a free subscription and is open seven days a week, where players can take pleasure in paper and electronic bingo.
Besides bingo, the location boasts new and vintage slots in its gaming room, which is open seven days a week. Players may enjoy freshly cooked meals from the café while they play.
2. Sunbeam Bingo in Cork
Sunbeam Bingo is an exclusive bingo in Cork, providing a fantastic bingo treat. However, the club has restricted timings and is open on Wednesdays and Sundays.
With cash payouts of up to €1000, the club runs various generous promotions to double up the fun. Several perks include free parking, mobile electronic bingo, and delicious snacks.
3. Caesars Palace in Galway
Caesar's Palace is a 200-seater bingo hall offering exciting bingo and arcade games. In Salthill, Galway, Caesar's Palace runs daily drawings and promos with prizes up to €3,000.
Players may play conventional and electronic bingo seven nights a week starting at 7:00 p.m. You may watch sporting events on the big screen while enjoying complimentary drinks and free Wi-Fi.
4. The Stella Bingo in Limerick
Amid Limerick City, The Stella Bingo is Ireland's oldest family-run bingo hall. With more than 700 seats, it provides free membership, specials, and a loyalty program.
Purchase a single book for as low as €9. The bingo begins at 7:30 p.m; on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday nights, while the Prize and Main Bingo start at 8:45 p.m.
5. Let’s Bingo Bar in Dundalk
Let's Bingo Bar is the most exquisite bingo hall in Dundalk. It is a perfect place for residents and visitors to play bingo any night of the week. Players can traditionally play bingo or check out a variety of computerized terminals.
The pub features 500 sitting spaces and weekly rewards of €20,000. The list of perks includes free membership, hot drinks, and goodies.
6. Forum Bingo in Waterford
Forum Bingo is the best place for bingo players living in Waterford. The bingo hall is open every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday. Without worrying about reservations beforehand, Forum Bingo offers pen and paper bingo for oldies and electronic bingo variants for gen-z.
7. Galaxy Bingo in Belfast
For bingo fans in Belfast, Galaxy Bingo provides classic bingo and automated cards. Located right in Cityside Shopping Centre, the club is open for around twelve hours on weekdays. Besides several prizes and jackpots, there are other ongoing promotions.
Gamers may also try their luck at the on-site slot machines. The club features supper and bar facilities.
8. Westway Bingo Club in Antrim
Westway Bingo Club is a significant bingo facility; in Antrim. It provides slot and electronic bingo with daily cash prizes of €3800. A free membership package and a premium loyalty program are also available.
The free amenities include an ATM, complimentary drinks, covered smoking places, and free parking. Westway is tidy and roomy, and its devoted following keeps it going strong.
Wrapping Up
With so many top bingo halls in Ireland, deciding on the finest one might be challenging. Luckily, we’ve narrowed down your search. Choose a bingo hall from our list and enjoy your bingo time!