Namco Funscape Braintree

Bowling on the Braintree outlet leisure park

Shoppers at the Braintree outlet village only have to cross to the leisure park on Charter Way to find this Namco Funscape, where 20 lanes share one roof with soft play, pool tables, an arcade and Clip 'n Climb walls. GASHAPON capsule machines with collectable figures have recently joined the arcade, and food comes from Clyde's Café: burgers, pizzas, hot dogs and fish fingers that can be ordered to the lane from a phone.

Families get the most out of the mix. Ramps, lighter balls and bumpers are kept for small children, and the operator suggests bowling from about two years old with an adult alongside. Shoe hire is part of the game price, and an after-school offer pairs a game with a kids' meal for £7.95. Bowling runs from 10:00 to 23:00 every day of the week, so a late game after the shops close is possible.