An Evening at Lane7 Middlesbrough*

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For me, bowling was something that was associated with being a kid. We’d go to the big bowling alleys for birthdays and have plastic cups filled with Coca Cola while we played. It was always somewhat of a special thing and we’d never really go unless there was an occasion. Well, all of that has now been changed, as Lane7 have opened an alley in my hometown of Middlesbrough! This more grown-up approach to bowling had my name written all over it, so when I received an email asking if I wanted to go along to the preview night, I just had to say yes!


What exactly makes Lane7 different to the more corporate bowling alleys? As it says on their website, there’s no “formica tables, moulded seats and plastic hot-dogs,” but instead, there’s an urban, industrial-style space with neon lights, classic walnut lanes, arcade games and an amazingly well-stocked bar. It’s the perfect night out for people that don’t want to go clubbing, but actually play a game or two and have a good laugh! It’s more than right up my street!
You can find the alley nestled between SOHO and Turtle Bay, just opposite the town hall. At first glance, it looks as though it’s going to be a small place, but as soon as you walk through the door, you head downstairs into bowling heaven. I kind of love that its underground because it gives the place more edge, especially when tied in with the industrial decor. There’s exposed pipes, neon lights, and lots of metal and wood – it’s seriously gorgeous. Then you simply head to the reception, pop your shoes on and you’re good to go!

Now, I am someone that always bowls with the barriers up. I’m a bit of a baby and I get so frustrated if the ball ever goes in the gutter, so I save myself the heart ache and stick the barriers on. However, at Lane7, it seems as though there’s no way to have a barrier, so I had to freestyle! I was convinced that I’d get no points, but I earned a respectable 67 in 10 tries, which I’d say isn’t too bad for someone that’s never bowled without the barriers! As I mentioned, the lanes are a classic walnut and they look like something from an old movie. It was a great touch and was much more effective than the plastic-looking lanes in larger bowling alleys.

We had a little flick through the drinks menu while we played too, and let me tell you, there is so much on offer here! We both just settled for a cola each, but there’s cocktails, mocktails, alcoholic milkshakes, pints and so much more. Honestly, you’d never go dry. We also agreed that the prices were pretty reasonable, so again, it would make a great alternative to a standard club night out.

After J well and truly beat me at bowling, we headed over to the arcade games. 

I have to say that I think this was J’s favourite area – he’s all about classic arcade games, so he got stuck right in on Crazy Taxi. For me, it was all about Space Invaders and I spent all of my coins trying to beat the high score. I didn’t beat it, but I had a heck of a lot of fun trying! Playing that game reminds me so much of being teeny tiny, so having that rush of nostalgia was lovely. J and I also played a round of Street Fighter, which again, he beat me at. Then we finished our drinks off, took a few more photos and video clips for a uni project, and headed home with smiles on our faces.

All in all, it was a fab night! The staff were absolutely amazing and friendly, the space had such a cool vibe and we both had so much fun. I’d quite happily go back to Lane7 again and the fact that it’s only a 10 minute walk from my house makes it much easier to do so!

Thank you to the Lane7 Middlesbrough team for having us both. We can’t wait to come back again!


A game of bowling and drinks were provided by Lane7 in exchange for a blog post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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