LATEST NEWS

Play Crazy Golf This Summer

Tuesday 21st July 2026

Looking for the perfect summer activity in Preston? Whether you’re planning a family day out, catching up with friends or looking for something a little different for date night, The Secret Garden at The Flower Bowl is the place to be this summer.

Our magical 18-hole crazy golf course takes you on an unforgettable adventure through tree-lined paths, tranquil Japanese gardens and stunning water features, with surprises waiting around every corner. It’s an immersive experience that’s fun for all ages – and unlike any crazy golf course you’ve played before.

Better still, The Secret Garden is outdoors with the reassurance of a protective canopy, meaning you can enjoy your game whatever the British summer has in store. Rain showers won’t stop play, making it the perfect all-weather activity for school holidays, weekend visits or spontaneous summer fun.

So grab your putter, round up your favourite people and discover why The Secret Garden is one of Preston’s must-visit summer attractions. 

We recommend pre-booking activities online before you visit. Click the button below to find out more and book your round. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Silver Screening Spotlight

Wednesday 22nd July 2026

Our next Silver Screening welcomes The Odyssey to The Flower Bowl on Wednesday 29th July at 3pm.

Exclusively for guests aged 55 and over, Silver Screening tickets are available for just £10, offering a relaxed and welcoming way to enjoy an afternoon at the cinema. Plus, don’t forget to make the most of our special offer — show your ticket at the Oasis Coffee Bar to enjoy a hot drink and cake for only £5*.

The Odyssey is directed by the acclaimed Christopher Nolan and is based on Homer’s foundational epic poem. The film follows the Greek king Odysseus (Matt Damon) on a grueling, decade-long journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. Battling wrathful gods, monsters, and enchantresses, he fights to reunite with his wife, Penelope (Anne Hathaway), and son, Telemachus (Tom Holland), who are fending off hostile suitors in his absence.

*T&Cs apply.

The Perfect Summer Holiday Day Out

Wednesday 15th July 2026

The summer holidays are almost here, and if you’re looking for the perfect family day out in Preston or Lancashire, look no further than The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre.

Whether you’re entertaining the kids, catching up with friends, or making unforgettable family memories, The Flower Bowl offers a full day of fun under one spectacular roof. With its vibrant, colourful interiors, premium facilities and welcoming atmosphere, it’s far more than just a leisure venue – it’s one of Lancashire’s most unique destinations.

Home to eight exciting attractions, there’s something for every age and interest. Challenge each other to a game of ten-pin bowling, tee off on our crazy golf course, test your skills on the shuffleboard, or discover the North of England’s only dedicated curling hall. You can also perfect your swing on the golf simulator, enjoy a game of cue golf, experience thrilling adventures on our VR ride, or sit back and watch the latest blockbuster in our luxurious three-screen premium cinema.

Whatever the British weather, The Flower Bowl is the perfect destination for summer holiday fun. Most of our activities are indoors, except our unique outdoor crazy golf course, which has a retractable canopy for when it rains. With hours of entertainment all in one stunning venue, it’s the ideal place for the whole family to enjoy a fun-filled day together.

When it’s time to take a break, you’ll find a fantastic selection of places to eat and drink, making it easy to spend the whole day with us. Whether you’re stopping for lunch, enjoying a sweet treat or relaxing over a coffee, there’s something to suit every taste.

Conveniently located near Preston and easily accessible from across Lancashire, The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre is one of the region’s leading destinations for family fun, indoor activities and unforgettable summer holiday days out. 

We can’t wait to welcome you this summer. Be sure to book your activities online in advance to secure your preferred date and time and avoid disappointment.

Cool Off at Knickerbockers Ice Cream Parlour

Tuesday 14th July 2026

Nothing says summer quite like an ice cream, and there’s no better place to enjoy one than Knickerbockers Ice Cream Parlour at The Flower Bowl.

Bringing the charm of an authentic Italian gelateria to the heart of Lancashire, Knickerbockers serves freshly made ice cream crafted right here on site using a traditional Italian ice cream making machine. Choose from a delicious range of flavours, from Vanilla and Strawberry to Mint Chocolate and Salted Caramel, then watch the magic happen as your ice cream is made before your eyes.

Whether you’re stopping by after a game of crazy golf, enjoying a family day out or simply treating yourself, our velvety smooth ice creams and indulgent milkshakes are the perfect way to cool down this summer.

Don’t forget to pick up a Knickerbockers loyalty card while you’re here. Collect nine stamps and your tenth ice cream is on us – giving you even more reason to come back for your favourite flavours.

Just look out for the giant pink ice cream cone inside The Flower Bowl and discover your new favourite summer treat!

Next Parent & Baby Showing

Wednesday 8th July 2026

We’re delighted to announce our next Parent & Baby cinema screening is Moana!

These showings are specially designed to offer a relaxed and welcoming cinema experience for adults with babies under 2 years old. With soft lighting and lowered volume, you can enjoy the latest films in comfort while your little one enjoys being part of the experience.

Moana is a musical adventure and live-action adaptation of Disney Animation’s 2016 film. In Ancient Polynesia, when a terrible curse incurred by Maui reaches the island of an impetuous Chieftain, his willful daughter answers the Ocean’s call to seek out the demigod to set things right.

Join us for a joyful morning at the cinema on Tuesday 21st July at 10:30am.

Next Subtitled Screening

Monday 13th July 2026

Join us for our next Subtitled Screening at The Flower Bowl as we present The Odyssey on Tuesday 21st July at 3:15pm.

These screenings feature on-screen subtitles throughout the film, creating a more accessible and inclusive cinema experience for all guests.

The Odyssey is directed by the acclaimed Christopher Nolan and is based on Homer’s foundational epic poem. The film follows the Greek king Odysseus (Matt Damon) on a grueling, decade-long journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. Battling wrathful gods, monsters, and enchantresses, he fights to reunite with his wife, Penelope (Anne Hathaway), and son, Telemachus (Tom Holland), who are fending off hostile suitors in his absence.

Next Parent & Baby Showing

Wednesday 8th July 2026

We’re delighted to announce our next Parent & Baby cinema screening is Moana!

These showings are specially designed to offer a relaxed and welcoming cinema experience for adults with babies under 2 years old. With soft lighting and lowered volume, you can enjoy the latest films in comfort while your little one enjoys being part of the experience.

Moana is a musical adventure and live-action adaptation of Disney Animation’s 2016 film. In Ancient Polynesia, when a terrible curse incurred by Maui reaches the island of an impetuous Chieftain, his willful daughter answers the Ocean’s call to seek out the demigod to set things right.

Join us for a joyful morning at the cinema on Tuesday 21st July at 10:30am.

Silver Screening Spotlight

Tuesday 7th July 2026

Our next Silver Screening welcomes The Invite to The Flower Bowl on Wednesday 15th July at 2:50pm.

Exclusively for guests aged 55 and over, Silver Screening tickets are available for just £10, offering a relaxed and welcoming way to enjoy an afternoon at the cinema. Plus, don’t forget to make the most of our special offer — show your ticket at the Oasis Coffee Bar to enjoy a hot drink and cake for only £5*.

In this film, a couple invites the neighbours over for cocktails, igniting an evening full of unexpected twists and turns, revealing deeply repressed emotions and unexplored sexuality. Starring Seth Rogen, Olivia Wilde, Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton.

*T&Cs apply.

Play Crazy Golf This Summer

Saturday 4th July 2026

Looking for the perfect summer activity in Preston? Whether you’re planning a family day out, catching up with friends or looking for something a little different for date night, The Secret Garden at The Flower Bowl is the place to be this summer.

Our magical 18-hole crazy golf course takes you on an unforgettable adventure through tree-lined paths, tranquil Japanese gardens and stunning water features, with surprises waiting around every corner. It’s an immersive experience that’s fun for all ages – and unlike any crazy golf course you’ve played before.

Better still, The Secret Garden is outdoors with the reassurance of a protective canopy, meaning you can enjoy your game whatever the British summer has in store. Rain showers won’t stop play, making it the perfect all-weather activity for school holidays, weekend visits or spontaneous summer fun.

So grab your putter, round up your favourite people and discover why The Secret Garden is one of Preston’s must-visit summer attractions. 

We recommend pre-booking activities online before you visit. Click the button below to find out more and book your round. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Cool Off at Knickerbockers Ice Cream Parlour

Friday 3rd July 2026

Nothing says summer quite like an ice cream, and there’s no better place to enjoy one than Knickerbockers Ice Cream Parlour at The Flower Bowl.

Bringing the charm of an authentic Italian gelateria to the heart of Lancashire, Knickerbockers serves freshly made ice cream crafted right here on site using a traditional Italian ice cream making machine. Choose from a delicious range of flavours, from Vanilla and Strawberry to Mint Chocolate and Salted Caramel, then watch the magic happen as your ice cream is made before your eyes.

Whether you’re stopping by after a game of crazy golf, enjoying a family day out or simply treating yourself, our velvety smooth ice creams and indulgent milkshakes are the perfect way to cool down this summer.

Don’t forget to pick up a Knickerbockers loyalty card while you’re here. Collect nine stamps and your tenth ice cream is on us – giving you even more reason to come back for your favourite flavours.

Just look out for the giant pink ice cream cone inside The Flower Bowl and discover your new favourite summer treat!

Next Subtitled Screening

Wednesday 1st July 2026

Join us for our next Subtitled Screening at The Flower Bowl with THE INVITE on Tuesday 7th July at 2:15pm. These screenings feature on-screen subtitles throughout the film, creating a more accessible and inclusive cinema experience for all guests.

A couple invites the neighbours over for cocktails, igniting an evening full of unexpected twists and turns, revealing deeply repressed emotions and unexplored sexuality.

Next Autism-Friendly Screening

Tuesday 30th June 2026

Join us for an autism-friendly screening at The Flower Bowl with Toy Story 5 on Saturday 4th July at 10am. These screenings are designed to reduce stress and sensory input, with softer lighting, lower sound levels and the freedom to move around. This showing also takes place in the morning, when the venue is usually at its quietest.

In Toy Story 5, a now eight-year-old Bonnie has become obsessed with a sleek frog-like tablet called “Lilypad”. With Lilypad dominating all of her attention, Jessie steps up as the leader of the neglected toy gang. Buzz must locate and enlist Woody’s help to save playtime and re-engage Bonnie with traditional toys.

Next Parent & Baby Showing

Tuesday 30th June 2026

We’re delighted to announce our next Parent & Baby cinema screening is Minions & Monsters!

These showings are specially designed to offer a relaxed and welcoming cinema experience for adults with babies under 2 years old. With soft lighting and lowered volume, you can enjoy the latest films in comfort while your little one enjoys being part of the experience.

Fresh off the worldwide blockbuster success of summer 2024’s funniest comedy, Despicable Me 4, Illumination expands its joyful animated universe with a riotous new chapter, featuring all-new characters, in the biggest global animated franchise in history: Minions & Monsters. This is the rambunctious, ridiculous and totally true story of how the Minions conquered Hollywood, became movie stars, lost everything, unleashed monsters onto the world and then banded together to try and save the planet from the mayhem they had just created.

Join us for a joyful morning at the cinema on Tuesday 7th July at 10:30am.

The Royal Ballet & Opera 2026–27 Season is Here!

Wednesday 24th June 2026

Calling all opera and ballet lovers – the highly anticipated Royal Ballet & Opera 2026–27 Season has officially been announced, and we’re thrilled to confirm that tickets are now on sale to watch these spectacular productions in The Flower Bowl cinema.

From timeless classics and beloved family favourites to dramatic operas and breathtaking ballet performances, this season promises an unforgettable year of world-class entertainment on the big screen.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan or discovering ballet and opera for the first time, there’s never been a better opportunity to experience these stunning productions from the comfort of our luxury cinema.

Upcoming Screenings

2026

The Metropolitan Opera: Macbeth – 20th October 2026

The Royal Ballet: Manon – 27th October 2026

The Royal Opera: Carmen – 10th November 2026

The Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker – 1st & 13th December 2026

2027

The Metropolitan Opera: La Fanciulla del West – 26th January 2027

The Royal Opera: Götterdämmerung – 3rd February 2027

The Royal Opera: Così fan tutte – 23rd February 2027

The Royal Ballet: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland – 23rd March 2027

The Royal Ballet: Swan Lake – 22nd April 2027

The Royal Opera: Tosca – 5th & 9th May 2027

The Royal Ballet: Romeo & Juliet – 25th May 2027

From the festive magic of The Nutcracker and the romance of Romeo & Juliet to the drama of Carmen, Macbeth and Tosca, this incredible season offers something for everyone. Join us at The Flower Bowl and experience the very best of ballet and opera, brought to life on the big screen.

Tickets are on sale now and we expect many performances to be popular, so we recommend booking early to secure your seats.

Silver Screening Spotlight

Tuesday 9th June 2026

Our next Silver Screening welcomes Savage House to The Flower Bowl on Wednesday 17th June at 12:20pm.

Exclusively for guests aged 55 and over, Silver Screening tickets are available for just £10, offering a relaxed and welcoming way to enjoy an afternoon at the cinema. Plus, don’t forget to make the most of our special offer — show your ticket at the Oasis Coffee Bar to enjoy a hot drink and cake for only £5*.

Set against the backdrop of 18th century England, a massive Pox outbreak, and Jacobite Uprising – this is a timely and darkly satirical story of Sir Chauncey Savage (Grant) and Lady Savage’s (Foy) blind pursuit of a better life. It is not without a tinge of irony that their family name is the Savages, for this is a Savage House indeed. Filled with duels, decadence, and bloodshed, this is a madcap play on class and power.

*T&Cs apply.

Next Subtitled Screening

Tuesday 9th June 2026

Join us for our next Subtitled Screening at The Flower Bowl with Disclosure Day on Tuesday 16th June at 4pm. These screenings feature on-screen subtitles throughout the film, creating a more accessible and inclusive cinema experience for all guests.

If you found out we weren’t alone, if someone showed you, proved it to you, would that frighten you? This summer, the truth belongs to seven billion people. We are coming close to … Disclosure Day.

On the Ice: Upcoming Bonspiels

Friday 1st May 2026

We’re delighted to welcome a fantastic line-up of bonspiels to The Flower Bowl over the coming months, bringing together curlers from across the region for exciting days of competition on the ice.

What is a bonspiel?

A bonspiel is a curling tournament where teams compete across several days, playing multiple matches as they progress through the competition. Known for their friendly yet competitive atmosphere, bonspiels bring the curling community together both on and off the ice.

Upcoming Flower Bowl bonspiel dates include:

Early Summer Bonspiel: 5th – 7th June 2026 
Mid Summer Bonspiel: 17th – 19th July 2026 
Open Bonspiel: 11th – 13th September 2026 

How can I take part?

To take part, prior curling experience is required. We welcome teams of all abilities, from novice curlers to seasoned pros. To find out more information and how to enter, click here.

Prefer to watch?

Join us on these dates and enjoy the action from the comfort of Oasis Coffee Bar, where you can relax with a drink while cheering on the teams.

OFFER: Buy 2 Bowling Games for the Price of 1

Thursday 4th June 2026

This summer, enjoy even more time on the lanes with our latest bowling offer at The Flower Bowl, available Monday to Thursday.

For a limited time, book 2 bowling games and only pay for 1, giving you twice the opportunity to enjoy our luxury bowling experience for less.

Whether you’re planning a family day out, catching up with friends or enjoying a competitive date night, it’s the perfect excuse to stay on the lanes a little longer. 

How to Book
Simply select 2 bowling games per person when booking and we’ll automatically charge you for just 1 game at checkout.

Terms & Conditions
• Valid on bowling games played Monday to Thursday between 1st June and 12th July.
• Offer applies per person.
• Games must be booked together and played consecutively during the same visit.
• The free game cannot be redeemed separately or transferred to another person.
• Subject to availability at the time of booking.

Take Team Building to the Next Level

Thursday 18th June 2026

Looking for a corporate day out with a difference? We bring fresh thinking to meetings, business events and team building, with everything you need for a productive and enjoyable day away from the office. Our spaces and activities stand out from the ordinary, creating a setting that inspires connection and collaboration.

Fun Team Building Activities
Challenge your colleagues to a game of curling on the North of England’s only dedicated curling rink, enjoy some friendly competition on the bowling lanes, or take on our one-of-a-kind crazy golf course. Our events team will help plan a day tailored to you. 

Inspiring Meeting Spaces
Make use of our luxurious cinema screens for your next big presentation, team meeting or awards event, before enjoying food and drinks together. We also have a versatile meeting space overlooking the curling hall, well-suited for training sessions and team briefings.

Celebrate in Style
The Copper Lounge offers a unique and fun setting ideal for business parties and networking sessions. It is perfect for groups who want an exclusive space while still enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of The Flower Bowl. The lounge can also be opened up to include access to private bowling lanes and comes with its own bar, adding a lively and premium touch to your event.

Whether you’re planning a team-building day, networking event or staff party, The Flower Bowl has everything you need all under one roof. Click the button below to find out more and to enquire about our corporate events.

The Science Beneath The Stones

Tuesday 5th May 2026

Why curling ice is everything

When the curling begins at the Winter Olympics, millions tune in to watch stones glide, sweepers scramble, and tension build in the house. But beneath every perfectly judged shot lies something most viewers rarely think about.

The ice.

In curling, the quality of the ice is not just important; it shapes the entire game.

Not all ice is created equal

Unlike skating or ice hockey, curling is not played on flat, glossy ice. Instead, the surface is carefully sprayed with tiny droplets of water that freeze into small raised bumps. This textured finish is called pebble.

Those bumps are what allow a 20 kilogram granite stone to travel over 40 metres with surprising control. The stone only touches the top of the pebble, reducing friction and creating the distinctive curl that gives the sport its name.

Without properly prepared pebble, there is no consistent movement. No predictable curl. No high level play.

Precision worthy of the Olympic stage

At Olympic level, ice technicians are as vital as the athletes. At the Milano Cortina 2026, ice teams will monitor:
• Ice temperature
• Air temperature
• Humidity
• Pebble size
• Pebble pattern

Even a slight shift in conditions can alter how far a stone travels or how sharply it curls.

Elite teams, including Team GB, rely on consistency. They practice on ice timed down to fractions of a second between the hog lines. If the sheet runs too slow, players must throw harder. If it runs too fast, strategy changes completely.

In short, the ice dictates the tactics.

Why sweeping actually works

One of the most misunderstood parts of curling is sweeping. It is not about brushing snow away. Modern research shows sweeping slightly warms the pebble surface, reducing friction and allowing the stone to travel further and straighter.

That only works if the pebble is uniform. Poor ice makes sweeping unpredictable. High quality ice gives sweepers the control that can decide a medal.

From Scottish lochs to Lancashire ice

Curling has deep roots in Scotland, where it was once played on frozen lochs. Today, British curling venues invest heavily in specialist ice technicians trained to international standards.

At The Flower Bowl in Barton, Preston, our Olympic sized curling rink is carefully prepared to deliver the same consistent speed and controlled curl seen in elite competition. The ice is pebbled with precision, monitored for temperature and maintained throughout the day to give players the best possible surface.

So if you want to feel that glide for yourself, there is no better place in Lancashire to start than The Flower Bowl.

Celebrate Father's Day at The Flower Bowl

Tuesday 19th May 2026

This Father’s Day, treat Dad to a day packed with family fun, great food and unforgettable experiences at The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre. Whether he’s a golf enthusiast, movie lover, foodie or always up for trying something new, we’ve got the perfect way to celebrate together on Sunday 21st June.

For the Golf Dad 
If Dad loves golf, why not book some time on our state-of-the-art golf simulator and swing into action on some of the world’s most legendary courses? Rain or shine, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a round together.

Looking for something the whole family can enjoy? Our family-friendly crazy golf course is packed with fun and adventure. Putt your way through tree-lined paths, Japanese gardens and stunning water features as you compete for family bragging rights.

For the Dad Who Likes to Try Something New
This Father’s Day, step onto the ice and experience the excitement of curling together. Our fun curling sessions are perfect for families wanting to give something different a go, with plenty of laughs guaranteed along the way.

Or, if Dad discovers a hidden talent on the ice, why not treat him to our 4-week Beginners Curling Course? It’s a fantastic gift for anyone looking to learn a new skill and enjoy a unique sporting experience.

For the Movie Dad
Sit back, relax and enjoy a VIP movie experience in our luxurious sofa cinema. Grab some popcorn, settle into one of our comfy sofas and enjoy the perfect family film outing this Father’s Day.

Our cinema schedule for Father’s Day will be available to book from Tuesday 16th June, so keep an eye out and plan the perfect movie trip for Dad.

For the Foodie Dad
No Father’s Day celebration is complete without a delicious meal. Treat Dad to lunch or dinner at one of our fantastic restaurants.

At Blooms Restaurant, you’ll find a tempting menu featuring pizza flatbreads, juicy burgers, classic mains and fresh salads, along with irresistible desserts and children’s menus for the little ones.

Or enjoy all your favourite chip shop classics at The Ocean Fish & Chip Restaurant, serving fish and chips, pies, burgers, salads and more – perfect for a relaxed family meal together.

For the Dad Who Has Everything
Not sure what to choose? Give the gift of family time, fun and unforgettable memories with one of our gift vouchers. Whether Dad enjoys golf, curling, cinema trips or dining out, he can choose the experience that suits him best. Gift vouchers can be purchased at Reception when you visit the venue.

Next Parent & Baby Showing

Wednesday 20th May 2026

We’re delighted to announce our next Parent & Baby cinema screening is Finding Emily!

These showings are specially designed to offer a relaxed and welcoming cinema experience for adults with babies under 2 years old. With soft lighting and lowered volume, you can enjoy the latest films in comfort while your little one enjoys being part of the experience.

When a lovesick musician is given the wrong number for his dream girl, he teams up with a driven psychology student to find her. Together, they spark a hilarious campus-wide frenzy that tests their own hearts and ambitions along the way.

Join us on Tuesday 26th May at 10:30am.

From Stage to Screen

Wednesday 13th May 2026

National Theatre Live returns to the big screen this spring and summer, bringing world-class theatre straight to our cinema.

Event cinema gives you the chance to experience acclaimed stage productions from the comfort of the best seats in the house. With performances captured live from leading UK stages, National Theatre Live delivers unforgettable storytelling and cinematic quality.

Upcoming National Theatre Live screenings include:
The Playboy of the Western World – 28th May
Les Liaisons Dangereuses – 25th June

Tickets are on sale now — book early and enjoy theatre like never before.

The science beneath the stones: Why curling ice is everything

Why curling ice is everything

When the curling begins at the Winter Olympics, millions tune in to watch stones glide, sweepers scramble, and tension build in the house. But beneath every perfectly judged shot lies something most viewers rarely think about.

The ice.

In curling, the quality of the ice is not just important; it shapes the entire game.

Not all ice is created equal

Unlike skating or ice hockey, curling is not played on flat, glossy ice. Instead, the surface is carefully sprayed with tiny droplets of water that freeze into small raised bumps. This textured finish is called pebble.

Those bumps are what allow a 20 kilogram granite stone to travel over 40 metres with surprising control. The stone only touches the top of the pebble, reducing friction and creating the distinctive curl that gives the sport its name.

Without properly prepared pebble, there is no consistent movement. No predictable curl. No high level play.

Precision worthy of the Olympic stage

At Olympic level, ice technicians are as vital as the athletes. At the Milano Cortina 2026, ice teams will monitor:
• Ice temperature
• Air temperature
• Humidity
• Pebble size
• Pebble pattern

Even a slight shift in conditions can alter how far a stone travels or how sharply it curls.

Elite teams, including Team GB, rely on consistency. They practice on ice timed down to fractions of a second between the hog lines. If the sheet runs too slow, players must throw harder. If it runs too fast, strategy changes completely.

In short, the ice dictates the tactics.

Why sweeping actually works

One of the most misunderstood parts of curling is sweeping. It is not about brushing snow away. Modern research shows sweeping slightly warms the pebble surface, reducing friction and allowing the stone to travel further and straighter.

That only works if the pebble is uniform. Poor ice makes sweeping unpredictable. High quality ice gives sweepers the control that can decide a medal.

From Scottish lochs to Lancashire ice

Curling has deep roots in Scotland, where it was once played on frozen lochs. Today, British curling venues invest heavily in specialist ice technicians trained to international standards.

At The Flower Bowl in Barton, Preston, our Olympic sized curling rink is carefully prepared to deliver the same consistent speed and controlled curl seen in elite competition. The ice is pebbled with precision, monitored for temperature and maintained throughout the day to give players the best possible surface.

So if you want to feel that glide for yourself, there is no better place in Lancashire to start than The Flower Bowl.

Post-Christmas Party Package Offer
27th December 2025

Missed out on celebrating in December? Keep the party going with our Post-Christmas Party Package, available throughout January and February 2026 — perfect for business teams looking to kick off the new year in style.

Our Strike It Lucky package includes exclusive use of the Copper Lounge, complete with two private bowling lanes for your group. You’ll be welcomed with a glass of fizz on arrival, enjoy a tasty burger combo, and make the most of your own private bar for the evening. To keep the fun flowing, your event also includes karaoke, an event host, and a relaxed, lively atmosphere designed for team celebrations and corporate get-togethers.

This fantastic package is available for just £29 per person (usually £32–£52pp), with a minimum of 15 people.
Business parties only.

To book or find out more, please email FBEvents@theflowerbowl.uk or call 01995 676482.

Christmas Classics Light Up the Screen
8th December 2025

Get ready to feel festive – our cinema is rolling out a magical line-up of Christmas favourites to make your December truly sparkle. From the mischievous fun of Home Alone (21st & 24th December) to the timeless charm of It’s A Wonderful Life (24th December) and the joyful antics of Elf (24th December), there’s something cosy and nostalgic for everyone. For an extra-special treat, don’t miss The Polar Express Pyjama Party on 20th & 22nd December, where tickets include a FREE hot chocolate! We’re also hosting an Elf Parent and Baby Screening on 23rd December, complete with soft lighting and reduced sound to create a relaxed setting for little ones (under 2s) and their grown-ups. Let the Christmas movie magic begin!

New Christmas Menus Now Available
4th December 2025

Christmas has officially arrived at The Flower Bowl, and our restaurants are serving up a feast of seasonal favourites to get you into the festive spirit. Both restaurants will be serving Christmas classics, including our Hot Turkey Sandwich, Vegetarian Nut Roast and Brie Sandwich and Vegan Nut Roast Sandwich. Over at Blooms, you can also enjoy a Festive Pizza topped with turkey, pigs in blankets, stuffing and a drizzle of cranberry sauce, while The Ocean will be dishing up a Giant Pig in Blanket with chips and gravy. And of course, no festive meal is complete without something sweet! Both restaurants will be offering delicious seasonal treats, including our Festive Sundae, Chocolate Fondant and Mince Pie. They won’t be around for long, so treat yourself now!

Barton Grange Garden Centre and Garden Centre Plants Acquired by Blue Diamond

The sale of Barton Grange Garden Centre and Garden Centre Plants to leading Garden Centre group Blue Diamond was officially completed Friday, 25th July.

Guy Topping, Managing Director of Barton Grange, commented:
“Blue Diamond has always been our preferred purchaser. Their proven expertise in operating destination garden centres and nurturing iconic brands across the sector gives us great confidence that Barton Grange will continue to flourish under their ownership.”

He continued: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our fantastic team, whose hard work and passion have made Barton Grange such a special place. The past month has been challenging, but their dedication has been unwavering. The culture we’ve built here is unique, and I’m certain it will live on for many years to come.

I also want to wish the entire Blue Diamond team every success with the transition. I look forward to seeing a little Blue Diamond sparkle added to the Barton Grange pizzazz.

Finally and most importantly, I’d like to thank our customers for their wonderful support over the years.”

Alan Roper, Managing Director of Blue Diamond said:
“The acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for Barton Grange, a business long admired for its innovation, customer experience, and horticultural excellence. Under the Blue Diamond umbrella, the centre will continue delivering the same high standards with fresh opportunities for growth and development. Having met the Team and spent some time with them, I can say with absolute sincerity they are outstanding and are what makes Barton Grange an exceptional business.”

A Message to Our Valued Customers

Dear Friends,

After much thought and consideration, we’ve made the very difficult decision to step away from the horticultural industry and close this chapter of our family’s journey.
We’re currently in discussions with Blue Diamond about selling Barton Grange Garden Centre and Garden Centre Plants (our wholesale nursery). It’s been a huge decision, but after careful consideration, it just feels like the right time.
With the next generation focusing on new paths outside of horticulture, and both Peter and Guy ready to slow things down, we felt now was the time to make a change. Several of the younger members of the family are passionate about the leisure industry, so we’ll be keeping The Flower Bowl, the Marina, and most of the site at Brock.
We’ve always been impressed with Blue Diamond, and we feel confident they’re the right team to take the Garden Centre and nursery forward. They share our values and passion for the industry, and we’re sure they’ll continue to build on what we’ve created here.
The hardest part of this decision is saying goodbye to the people; our team and of course the wonderful customers who’ve supported us through the years. Your loyalty and enthusiasm have meant the world to us, and we’re incredibly proud of everything we’ve achieved together. Thank you for being part of our story.
As we begin this next chapter, we’re excited to have more time to relax and enjoy life, but we’ll always have a special place in our hearts for Barton Grange and for all of you.
Thank you for your support.

Peter & Guy Topping

The Flower Bowl named Visitor Attraction of the Year! 
8th February 2023

The Flower Bowl team is celebrating after winning the prestigious Lancashire Tourism Award for Visitor Attraction of the Year 2022. We collected the coveted title at a special ceremony hosted by Britain’s Got Talent finalist and panto veteran Steve Royle at Blackpool Winter Gardens. The Flower Bowl’s manager Emily Topping says: “We’re absolutely thrilled to win this award. Throughout the recent challenges facing the hospitality sector, we’ve worked really hard to develop and strengthen our offering. This award is a fantastic accolade and a great boost for the whole team.” The Flower Bowl will now be entered into the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.