Video: Inside York’s £2.8m Hollywood Bowl

Marilyn Monroe and the Lord Mayor of York teamed up to officially open the city’s sparkling new bowling centre.

The £2.8 million project converted 28,000 square feet at the LNER Community Stadium complex into a full-on entertainment venue, creating 30 new jobs in the process.

York’s Hollywood Bowl has 24 state of the art bowling lanes, including four VIP versions, and is fitted out in lively US style.

At a ribbon cutting ceremony, the Lord Mayor Cllr Janet Looker and a Marilyn lookalike were joined by Town Crier Ben Fry and centre manager Andy Peacock.

Andy said: “The centre is head to toe fun, and we’re delighted to be able to offer customers a fantastic family entertainment experience with the opening of this latest-generation Hollywood Bowl.”

What’s on offer

L-R: Lord Mayor of York Janet Looker, Marilyn Monroe (sort of), Hollywood Bowl centre manager Andy Peacock and Town Crier Ben Fry. Photograph: YorkMix

The 24 lanes are among the first to be fitted with an automatic overground bowl return, delivering each bowl back to the starting point.

VIP booths give a bit more comfort and luxury to your day or night out.

The centre’s Hollywood Diner includes a range of classic burgers and hot dogs, alongside all the usual beers and drinks you’d expect at the bar.

There are two pool tables in the bar area if you fancy a game.

Alternatively check out the amusement area, which includes games like Space Invaders, Mario Kart, Tomb Raider 65”, Halo and Joker Air Hockey.

Safety first

The bowls are disinfected regularly. Photograph: Nigel Roddis

Enhanced cleaning and social distancing measures are in place to ensure visitors can play safe.

Every other lane is closed, meaning a party of up to six using a lane will be social distancing by default.

Bar and dining area seating is spaced out.

Players can choose to wear disposable gloves for their games but must wear their own suitable footwear and use the available hand sanitiser upon entry and exit.

Enhanced cleaning will take place throughout the day, including the cleaning of bowling balls, lane seating and touch screens in between every game.

Find out more and book at the Hollywood Bowl website.