Bounce Ping Pong

If cool and fun aren’t two words you’d usually associate with ping pong, prepare to let Bounce turn the tables on that.
London’s hottest (and to our knowledge, the only) social ping pong bar, shakes off the game’s youth centre label by making it the star attraction at two city venues. Stylish, urban and made for hens with a competitive streak, Bounce is ideal for brides who want to combine party and play for a truly unique evening.The subterranean Shoreditch branch (there’s also one in Farringdon) offers table service, a bar and restaurant - and of course the ping pong tables - bringing together all the vital elements for a brilliant night out under one roof. The restaurant, set beyond the reach of whizzing ping pong balls, has a superb offering to sate every appetite; from snacky pizzas made fresh in a wood-burning oven (we adored the goat’s cheese and caramelised onion) to upmarket pan-fried seabass and organic veggies – perfect for a pre- or post-victory dinner with the girls.

But the ping pong floor is where the real action is. There are 17 tables bordered by spaciousleather booths, all staffed by waiters offering table service, allowing you to order drinks (including delicious mocktails) without taking your eye off the ball.With a great soundtrack, UV lighting and an endless supply of ping pong balls, Bounce ispurpose built for fun. Bats and balls are included in the hire, so all you need to do is bring your hens and your game face.

Tables can be booked by the hour, and Bounce recommends groups of 6+ reserve in advance to secure their spot on busier nights – which seems to be every evening. It seems everyone agrees ping pong and pizza at Bounce is an unbeatable night out.

Our verdict? As hen parties go, it’s a game changer.

• www.bouncepingpong.com