Airport Bowl — Attraction in London

Thought I'd visit where I once worked decades ago as a kid and had a great time with colleagues and customers.

I went to get some lunch to take out and was shocked at the £1pp just to enter the place - I don't remember that, maybe because I worked there. I said I was just getting food on lunch break and wouldn't be staying for entertainment. They let me pass without paying entry fee on grounds I was spending money there.

When I got in, it sure was busy - like a circus. Had a roam around to see what was what, the same, or different. Arcade much the same. the big £300 jackpot machine is gone. RIP. I made bucks on that thing years ago, spotting & sniping losers. Air hockey, pool tables, the usual arcade machines, even a punching machine if I remember correctly. There were a lot of kids running about like maniacs screaming - probably party functions but the parents were too busy being lazy. Was quite chaotic, didn't like the atmos. Hard to spot any staff around, I saw like two uniforms at kiosk.

McDonalds has been replaced by some dodgy fried pigeon joint that I've never heard of. They got my wrap order wrong - how simple could that be? Typical let down. RIP MaccieDoo.

After wolfing my pigeon wrap & budget chips, I took a look at the bar. Not bad. Good memories from long ago. Not much change. Bit of flare. Usual chavvy kids downing pints & big talk.

The actual bowling arena look more or less the same (decent) from afar, and when I was there nearly every lane had punters on it so doing well I guess. Didn't see one pro though, just flukes! Saw a young man literally hurl the ball in the air like he was chucking a rock in a pond. Felt like I was in Cambodia or something. Weird.

Again, I didn't see much staff around for the sheer amount of customers there were. Quite surprising. And yet they charge £1pp to enter the place. What?!

Saw some poor girl that worked there sweeping up food and junk off the carpet that customers (or their kids) had left behind. Seated customers just looked at her like she was scum. She looked like she was a low point in her life and unappreciated, or even noticed. I noticed. I felt sorry for her.

I wouldn't want to bowl there really - I examined some of the bowling balls, they were horrid. Slippery or greasy, the holes were rank. Didn't know if it was from the lanes, or junk food. No sanitizer or wipes in view (I brought my own). The air dryer on the lane people were bowling at didn't work either.

Looked around for seniors or managers. Couldn't clock any. Probably in the back office, laughing.

I'm sure its a great time for families on the cheap here, but its nothing to shout about. It shows. From my point of view the place was a lot better a decade or two ago. From what I've read however - it is a better bowling experience that the bowling in Feltham. Just a shame I got a "dive vibe" from this visit.

What happened to the Pro Shop? I guess that didn't make any revenue. Poor fella that ran that. RIP

I gave it one star because, honestly, that was my experience and that is all it deserved. Pretty low class, for something situated at HEATHROW - ONE OF THE TOP TEN BUSIEST AIRPORTS IN THE WORLD.

Paid for my car parking, which was reasonable. I was expecting to need a mortgage.

Yeah this review is a bit of a rant, but the place was just a major disappointment. Like much of everything this far out of London City, I guess. Hard to find middle to high class these days.

I am surprised the place is still standing, decades later. Very surprised. But have fun if you go! Don't take my word for it - a lot of people have left FIVE STAR reviews. LMAO! I guess they've never been to a REAL five star establishment, or had the money to. It's all relative I suppose.

Just bring sanitizer, wipes, and perhaps a mask, and rubber gloves. Wash your hands, if that's even a thing anymore for you people. Yes I've seen blokes in the urinals walk out without washing. But I...

Hmmm... So I visited airport bowl couple of days ago. The venue is somewhat run down. Had a bit of a chill inside.. Be warned if like me u like to hang out in a somewhat cosy place, I'm told its a popular hangout, especially for airport workers (I used to be one but never visited) there's some arcade games and a pool table on site too.. I can imagine groups liking that, with a bar and a fast food kiosk on site too. The tables were not especially clean, tho they had handgel dispensers dotted around the whole venue at the customers disposal. I couldn't help but think how much more revenue this place could generate with just a few little changes. They could consider a wider variety of food options.. That would be good! & Coffee shops aaaaalways go down a treat! . (I'm surprised one of the chains hasn't jumped on board frankly) there's definatly a need there. The location itself is prime and in my opinion under-utilised. Oh and please freshen up/clean/redo your restrooms /toilets... They really were extremely unpleasant to have to use.😳 There were not many people there when I visited 7pmish.. Perhaps 10 people approximately.. This included two families with kids in tow using the bowling alley. Can't think of the word.. But it wasn't the nicest atmosphere. CMON Airport bowl! You have a great venue that could really buzz given a bit of improvements I'm sure and become a place ppl want to go to meet their friends (and buy drinks and food) ... I hope they are done soon. Its OK but...

Airport Bowl is a fun and lively entertainment venue located conveniently near Heathrow Airport, making it a perfect spot for families, friends, or travelers looking for a place to unwind. This bowling alley features a range of activities beyond just bowling, offering something for everyone. The atmosphere is vibrant, with modern decor and plenty of lanes, ensuring that even larger groups can find a spot without a long wait.

The bowling experience itself is excellent, with well-maintained lanes and comfortable seating areas. The digital scoring system is easy to use, and the venue provides bowling balls in various weights, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned players. There’s also a selection of arcade games, pool tables, and even an on-site bar and café, so visitors have plenty of options to make an evening of it.

The food and drink offerings are casual and satisfying, with a range of burgers, pizzas, and snacks perfect for a laid-back meal between games. The service is friendly and accommodating, making sure that everything runs smoothly. Airport Bowl is particularly great for families, offering kids’ packages and birthday party options, making it a versatile choice for a fun, hassle-free outing...