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Our next Silver Screening welcomes the new musical biographical drama, Michael, to The Flower Bowl on Wednesday 20th May at 2:30pm.
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*.
Michael is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fuelled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.
Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.
*T&Cs apply.
Join us for our next Subtitled Screening at The Flower Bowl with The Christophers on Tuesday 19th May at 5:30pm. These screenings feature on-screen subtitles throughout the film, creating a more accessible and inclusive cinema experience for all guests.
What is the value of art? Does it reside in personal expression? Cultural longevity? Financial worth? These questions fuel this gloriously entertaining comedy, directed by Steven Soderbergh and written by Ed Solomon.
A mainstay of the London art scene since his starry breakout in the creative explosion of the 1960’s, Julian Sklar (Ian McKellen) has drifted into a cluttered, self-imposed seclusion. His two estranged children (James Corden, Jessica Gunning) enlist Lori (Michaela Coel), a young painter and sometime-forger, to pose as a prospective assistant and gain access to a fabled series of unfinished canvases Julian has buried deep in his home studio, in a deceptive bid to secure an inheritance for themselves.
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.
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.
We’re delighted to announce our next Parent & Baby cinema screening is The Devil Wears Prada 2!
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.
Almost 20 years after making their iconic turn as Miranda, Andy, Emily and Nigel—Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable streets of New York City and the sleek offices of Runway Magazine in the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2006 phenomenon that defined a generation.
Join us on Tuesday 12th May at 10:30am.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.”
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 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.
