After a six‑month refurbishment, Deluxe Bingo reopened its doors at Pelham Place, Hastings, on Saturday 21 June, ushering in a new era for one of the town’s most enduring entertainment venues. Hundreds of bingo enthusiasts, local dignitaries and curious passers‑by gathered to experience the fully modernised hall, which seamlessly blends contemporary style with over a century of heritage.
The iconic Hastings Bingo Hall confirmed its closure in early 2023. However, due to popular demand, the much-loved bingo venue partially reopened with the promise of a full reopening after a refurbishment. Having been given an Easter reopening date, the eagerly awaited reopening finally happened on the 21st June to some considerable fanfare
The Deluxe Bingo Hastings Staff
Modern Comforts, Timeless Character
The building first welcomed cinemagoers in 1910, when silent films and brass‑band interludes were all the rage. In the swinging 1960s, the site was reimagined as one of Hastings’ very first dedicated bingo halls, capitalising on the nationwide craze for “housey‑housey” evenings. Over subsequent decades, Deluxe Bingo at Pelham Place became a very popular bingo venue and the go‑to destination for families, retirees and students alike, its neon signage and buzzing atmosphere an integral part of the seafront skyline. Inside, the six‑month overhaul has introduced state‑of‑the‑art lighting rigs, plush tiered seating and a streamlined counter area, all while preserving original features such as the ornate ceiling cornices and stained‑glass foyer panels. The new layout prioritises visibility and socialising, with dedicated “breakout booths” where players can relax between rounds.
Opening Day Festivities “Just the Beginning”
Reopening day kicked off with ribbon‑cutting ceremonies led by the Mayor of Hastings and Rye’s Member of Parliament. Local brass ensemble Beachy Head Brass Band performed classics along the promenade, and a town crier in period costume paraded through the crowd, issuing handwritten flyers about upcoming events. Two full-price bingo sessions offered visitors the chance to win four £1,000 jackpots in total, and the celebratory refreshments tent served complementary drinks throughout the afternoon.
Jeremy Godden, director of Godden Gaming Organisation, told the local newspaper:
“The grand opening has gone fantastically well.
“We’ve been very pleased with all the comments from all our lovely customers – we’ve had two £1,000 jackpot winners who have gone home very happy.
“The turnout’s been fantastic and it’s wonderful to see this venue full of energy and excitement once again.
“Deluxe Hastings has always had a special place in the community.
“There’s so much history in this building, but it’s the people who bring it to life – our team, our customers, and all those who supported us in making this opening possible.
“This launch is just the beginning – and we’re excited about everything still to come.”
Expanded Hours and Community Commitment
Deluxe Bingo will now welcome guests from Thursday through Monday each week, with the ground‑floor arcade slots remaining in operation around the clock. As part of its commitment to the local community, management has pledged to raise £10,000 for St Michael’s Hospice over the next year, starting with an immediate initial £1,000 donation.
The Deluxe Bingo Hastings Management
Ileana Danescu, general manager of Deluxe Bingo Hastings, added:
“I feel very excited and so thrilled to welcome everybody back to the bingo club.
“I’m so happy to be here with you and I’m looking forward to working with everyone.”
With its fresh interior and refreshed programme of themed nights, charity fundraisers and special guests, Deluxe Bingo Hastings is set to reclaim its status as a premier seaside attraction.
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