Introduction
Bingo’s not just about numbers — it’s about laughter, tradition, and a bit of cheeky charm. Whether you play in buzzing halls or your favourite bingo sites, you've likely heard the likes of Two Fat Ladies or Legs Eleven ring out.
These legendary bingo calls are more than just catchy phrases — they’re an essential part of British bingo culture.
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Let’s now look into the wacky, wonderful world of UK bingo calls — where every number has a story to tell.
Why Do Bingo Calls Exist?
UK bingo calls were originally designed to make gameplay clearer in noisy bingo halls. Instead of simply shouting out “33,” a caller might yell “All the Threes – 33!” or “Dirty Gertie – 30” to make things more memorable (and amusing).
It helped cut through the chatter — and added some extra sparkle to the experience.
Over the years, these phrases evolved into full-blown bingo lingo, influenced by rhyming slang, military terms, pop culture, and even social media trends. The tradition continues to thrive — both in-person and online.
A Brief History of UK Bingo Calls
The earliest UK bingo calls date back to World War I, when soldiers played improvised versions of bingo to boost morale.
Some of the earliest phrases were drawn from military slang, while others borrowed from Cockney rhyming slang and British comedy.
Fast forward to the 1950s and 60s, and the bingo boom brought these phrases to the masses. From “Kelly’s Eye” to “Doctor’s Orders,” these iconic bingo number meanings became a beloved part of the game’s folklore.
Modern bingo has brought fresh takes, too — replacing “Garden Gate” with “Wills and Kate,” and introducing social-savvy shoutouts like “Hashtag Heaven.”
🎱 The Fascinating History of UK Bingo Calls!
Over time, pop culture has influenced bingo calls, keeping the tradition fun and relevant.
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Classic UK Bingo Calls & Their Meanings
Here’s a closer look at some of the funniest and most famous UK bingo calls, grouped by theme.
🎤 Rhyming Slang Bingo Calls
Rhyming slang is at the heart of traditional UK bingo calls. These playful phrases made numbers easier to hear and remember.
| Bingo Call | Number | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Garden Gate | 8 | Garden gate is a cockney rhyme for ‘mate’ and also rhymes with 8 |
Clickety Click | 66 | A catchy phrase that rhymes with the number 66 |
| Heaven’s Gate | 78 | Words that rhyme with 78 |
👀 Visual Bingo References
Some calls come from the shape of the numbers themselves.
| Bingo Call | Number | Origin |
|---|---|---|
Legs Eleven | 11 | Looks like two legs |
| Two Fat Ladies | 88 | Resembles two curvy women |
| Two Little Ducks | 22 | The number resembles two ducks side by side |
🪖 Military & Historical Bingo Calls
These are rooted in British history and wartime life.
| Bingo Call | Number | Origin |
|---|---|---|
Doctor’s Orders | 9 | Named after the ‘Number 9’ laxative pill given to British soldiers in WWII |
Danny La Rue | 52 | A nod to the famous drag performer, playing on 52 |
The Brighton Line | 59 | This used to be the London-to-Brighton train line number |
Kelly’s Eye | 1 | Military term related to the 'one-eyed' helmet worn by Australian outlaw Ned Kelly |
🎬 Pop Culture & Media-Inspired Bingo Calls
Modern references have made their way into bingo lingo too.
| Bingo Call | Number | Origin |
|---|---|---|
Knock at the Door | 4 | Based on the common British phrase |
Heinz Varieties | 57 | relates to the Heinz company slogan |
| 39 Steps | 39 | From the Alfred Hitchcock film - 39 Steps |
| Unlucky for Some | 13 | 13 is traditionally seen as an unlucky number |
Many of these classic bingo calls have remained unchanged for decades, keeping the tradition alive in bingo halls. However, as bingo evolves, modern versions referencing current celebrities and trends are also emerging which you can see below:
📱 Modern Bingo Calls: Trending & Topical
Bingo keeps up with the times! Here are a few newer calls that reflect pop culture and internet slang:
| Bingo Call | Number | Origin |
|---|---|---|
Love Island | 5 | Inspired by the hit reality TV show |
Wills and Kate | 8 | Updated from 'garden gate' to reference the royal couple |
Hashtag Heaven | 77 | A social media twist on the usual sunset strip |
Selfie Queen | 17 | A nod to influencers and Instagram culture |
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Final Thoughts
I have to admit, I’m not the biggest fan of the modern bingo calls - maybe I’m just showing my age! Give me the classics any day, like Number 3, Cup of Tea and 17, Dancing Queen!
I was trying to explain bingo calls to a French friend the other day, and she just stared at me, completely baffled. And I get it - it does sound pretty strange when you break it down.
But that’s the charm of it - it’s a niche, tongue-in-cheek part of British culture that is so much fun.
No matter how bingo evolves, one thing remains certain: shouting 'Full House' will always be a part of the game!
By the way, if you're new to bingo, this guide on how to play online bingo will help you get started.
Please leave a comment below and tell me about your favourite bingo calls? I’d love to know! 👇
This guide is written by Jenny Mason, OLBG’s in-house bingo specialist, and fact-checked by Sam Darkens.
FAQ
Funny Bingo Calls FAQs
What are the most famous UK bingo calls?
The most iconic UK bingo calls include Two Fat Ladies (88), Legs Eleven (11), Kelly’s Eye (1), and Doctor’s Orders (9). These timeless favourites are still shouted in bingo halls today and form the backbone of British bingo lingo.
What does Two Fat Ladies mean in bingo?
Two Fat Ladies refers to the number 88 — the shape of the two eights side by side looks like a pair of curvy figures. It’s one of the most beloved (and cheekiest) bingo calls around!
Why are bingo numbers called out with phrases?
Bingo callers use fun phrases to make numbers clearer and more entertaining — especially in noisy venues. It adds personality, helps avoid confusion, and keeps players engaged, whether in halls or online rooms.
Where did UK bingo calls originate?
Many bingo calls began during and after World War I, evolving from military slang, Cockney rhymes, and popular British sayings. Over time, they became part of bingo tradition and were used widely in 20th-century bingo halls.
What is the meaning behind Legs Eleven in bingo?
Legs Eleven refers to the number 11 — the two ones resemble a pair of long legs. It’s a classic call that often earns a cheeky whistle from the room!
How are modern bingo calls created?
Modern bingo calls are inspired by pop culture, celebrities, and social trends. For example, Love Island (5) or Hashtag Heaven (77) are playful updates designed to appeal to younger players and online audiences.
Are there pop culture references in bingo calls?
Yes, absolutely! Today’s bingo calls often reflect reality TV, social media, and celebrity culture — keeping the game fun and fresh. Think Selfie Queen (17) or Wills and Kate (8) as modern twists on old classics.
What are the funniest bingo calls used today?
Some of the funniest bingo calls include Droopy Drawers (44), Danny La Rue (52), and Dirty Gertie (30) — each with its own backstory and unique British humour. They’re part of what makes bingo so entertaining.
Do online bingo games still use traditional calls?
Many online bingo rooms still use classic UK bingo calls, especially in chat-hosted games. While some platforms streamline the experience, traditional calls remain popular with players who enjoy the nostalgic charm.
How can I learn UK bingo lingo?
The best way is to play! Start with a few games on trusted bingo sites, join the chat, and listen out for the calls. You’ll pick them up in no time — and we’ve got guides to help too.
What’s the origin of Kelly’s Eye in bingo?
Kelly’s Eye is the call for number 1. It’s said to be a reference to the Australian outlaw Ned Kelly, who wore a single-eyed helmet. It’s one of the oldest and most mysterious calls in the bingo book.
What’s the difference between classic and modern bingo calls?
Classic bingo calls use rhymes, historical references, and cockney slang. Modern calls lean into pop culture, online trends, and current events. Both add fun to the game — it just depends on your style!
