Ten-pin bowling strikes the right note

While many nightclubs and pubs are struggling to survive, new figures suggest that one sector of the leisure industry is on a roll: ten-pin bowling.

The bowling industry has seen 28 per cent growth since 2012, while nightclubs suffered an 18 per cent decline.

Consumer analysts Mintel said the shift was part of a nostalgia for childhood pursuits.

Adults are increasingly likely to have tried activities traditionally aimed at children, such as ball pits, bouncy castles, trampolining and outdoor fun assault courses, often “accompanied by craft beer, DJS and street food markets”, the company said.

Helen Fricker, a senior leisure analyst at Mintel, added: “Ten-pin bowling is enjoying a surprise renaissance with operators reaping the rewards of investing in sites and more appealing food menus, while some also offer a choice of multiple activities, such as live music and karaoke.”