Our social star Charlie Shakespeare has been out on the road filming a brand-new, three-part documentary series, Inside Real Fun Group, taking us behind the scenes at three very unique bingo clubs.
Different club names. Different looks. Same great game of bingo.
The trailer for episode one goes live this Thursday at 5pm. Read on for the inside scoop.
Who Is the Real Fun Group?
As one of the UK’s largest independent bingo club operators, Real Fun Group only formed in 2023. But their story already means a lot to the people who play (and especially work) in the Real Fun clubs.
When eight bingo clubs fell into administration, the future looked uncertain. In just three months, Real Fun Group stepped in, found a licensed operator, completed the acquisition and kept those clubs open, ultimately saving nearly 200 jobs and protecting places that are important to their local communities.
As 2026 begins, Real Fun Group are looking ahead. They know their clubs are traditional buildings that will take time to modernise, but they also know how important these bingo spots are to the people who walk through the doors.
What you’ll see in the series
We’re visiting three clubs over three episodes, each with their own personalities. Here are the episode launch dates:
- Thursday 15th January – Episode 1, at Apollo Bingo Rhyl
The flagship of four Apollo Bingo halls, Rhyl is a seaside favourite. A Grade II listed building that celebrates Art Deco architecture, this venue has been a cinema in the past.
- Thursday 22nd January – Episode 2, at Judges Bingo Tonypandy
A South Wales classic that’s been the home of bingo for 50 years (and was featured in a BBC doc Full House)., this bingo hall in the valley enjoys a visit from the always lovely Nicola McLean, star of I’m a Celebrity and Celeb Big Brother.
- Thursday 29th January – Episode 3, at Globe Bingo Donnington
Full of history, heart, and proper bingo atmosphere, Globe Bingo is where you go for good food, good drinks, and some fantastic bingo fun.
Each club is branded differently, but they’re all part of the same Real Fun Group mission: keeping UK bingo alive.
The series trailer drops Thursday 8th Jan at 5pm.
This is one series you’ll want to call full house with.
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