Pros and cons
Pros
- Ultra-low stake games with tickets from just 1p, the lowest in the UK market
- Completely unique proprietary bingo games developed in-house
- No-wagering policy means winnings paid in withdrawable cash
- 24/7 customer support with UK-based chat moderators
Cons
- Limited payment methods compared to some competitors
- No VIP or loyalty program for regular players
- Interface prioritizes simplicity over advanced features
Looking for the lowest-stake bingo games in the UK? Our Tombola Bingo review examines their proprietary games, penny tickets, and vibrant community features to help you decide if this Flutter Entertainment-owned platform is the right fit for your online bingo adventures.
Tombola Bingo has been a fixture in the Online Bingo UK landscape since 2006, standing out with its exclusively in-house developed games and remarkably affordable ticket prices. Now operating as part of Flutter Entertainment since 2022, Tombola maintains its identity as one of the most trusted online bingo sites with proper UK Gambling Commission licensing. This review highlights what makes Tombola a distinctive choice in the competitive online bingo market in 2025.
1. Is Tombola Bingo Legit?
Tombola operates with full UK Gambling Commission licensing (Account No. 38613) and maintains additional licensing in Gibraltar (RGL 052) for its international operations. As part of Flutter Entertainment since 2022, Tombola benefits from the backing of one of the industry’s largest gambling groups while maintaining its distinctive approach to Online Bingo Games. The site employs robust SSL encryption throughout and implements 3-D Secure 2.0 technology for all card payments, ensuring a secure environment for players exploring how to play online bingo in a safe setting.
2. Welcome Offers & Promotions
Tombola’s welcome package is refreshingly straightforward:
- First Deposit Bonus: 100% match on deposits between £10-£50 (e.g., deposit £30, get £30 bonus)
- Bonus Terms: No complex wagering requirements—winnings paid in withdrawable cash
- Occasional No-Deposit Offer: £5 FREE code promotions for new players
18+. GambleAware. 100% bonus match up to £50. Minimum £10 deposit. 1 Free Play awarded for every £1 (up to 50 Free Plays). First deposit only. T&Cs apply.
18+ | Gamble responsibly | GambleAware.org | T&Cs apply
Beyond the welcome offer, Tombola features several ongoing Online Bingo Offers:
- Playmates Referral Program: Share £5 FREE codes with friends and both receive bonus funds
- Daily Jackpots: Enhanced prize pools, particularly in the Pulse game rooms
- Penny Games: Daily 1p Paper games making Online Bingo Free or nearly free to play
Unlike many competitors, Tombola focuses on straightforward, valuable promotions rather than complex, high-wagering offers that can confuse players.
3. Bingo Rooms & Game Types
Tombola stands apart in the Best Online Bingo Sites UK category by offering exclusively in-house developed games:
- Bingo90: Traditional 90-ball format with progressive jackpots on Full House wins
- Bingo75 Lines: 75-ball variant offering five prizes per game
- Bingo80: Unique 80-ball game with color-block pattern wins
- Specialty Games: Exclusive variants like Pulse, Burst, Blocks, and Paper offering distinctive gameplay experiences
Ticket prices range widely from an industry-leading 1p up to 50p, making Tombola particularly accessible for budget-conscious players. The Free Bingo opportunities through promotional codes and referrals provide real cash prizes without requiring deposits.
4. Software & User Experience
Tombola’s commitment to in-house development extends to its platform:
- Proprietary Software: Custom-built interface allowing multi-game play (up to 3 rooms simultaneously)
- Automated Features: Ticket daubing happens automatically so players never miss wins
- Mobile Optimization: Native iOS and Android apps plus responsive HTML5 web client
For players accessing Online Bingo Sites UK via mobile devices, Tombola offers a seamless experience with full functionality across all platforms. The site prioritizes simplicity and ease of use over flashy animations, making it particularly suitable for newcomers learning how to play online bingo or those preferring a cleaner interface.
The community aspect is enhanced by live chat rooms in each game, moderated by UK-based Chat Moderators (CMs) who organize mini-games and ensure a friendly atmosphere.
5. Banking & Withdrawals
Tombola offers a streamlined but secure approach to payments:
Deposit Methods:
- Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Visa Electron): £10 minimum first deposit, £5 subsequent
- Apple Pay: Available after first card deposit, £5 minimum
Withdrawal Process:
- Debit cards: 3-5 banking days processing time
- Apple Pay: Mirrors the processing time of the linked card
All transactions are fee-free, while deposit limits include a £300 maximum balance and weekly net-deposit ceiling to promote responsible gaming. The limited payment options represent one area where Tombola could expand its offering to match other trusted online bingo sites.
6. Customer Support & Security
Tombola provides comprehensive player assistance:
- 24/7 Support: Live chat available round-the-clock
- Additional Channels: Email support (support(at)tombola.co.uk) and UK freephone (0800 29 888 73, available 9 AM-11 PM)
- Help Centre: Extensive FAQ section covering how to play online bingo and account queries
Security measures include:
- Encryption: Full-site SSL protection
- Payment Security: 3-D Secure 2.0 technology for all card transactions
- Responsible Gaming Tools: Net spend limits, deposit/loss caps, session reminders, self-exclusion options
- Support Organizations: Direct links to BeGambleAware and other assistance resources
8. Loyalty & VIP Programs
Unlike many Online Bingo UK operators, Tombola does not offer a traditional loyalty or VIP program. Instead, the platform focuses on:
- Consistently low ticket prices accessible to all players
- Regular promotions available to the entire player base
- Community-building through chat games and moderator interactions
While some players might miss earning points or climbing VIP tiers, Tombola’s approach ensures all players receive the same treatment and access to promotions regardless of spending level.
9. Player Feedback
Based on aggregated player reviews across multiple platforms:
Positive Highlights:
- Exceptionally affordable gameplay with genuine penny bingo options
- Friendly chat community with active moderators
- No-wagering policy meaning winnings are paid in real cash
Common Criticisms:
- Limited selection of payment methods
- Absence of a rewards program for regular players
- Some players report withdrawal processing could be faster
10. Final Comments on Tombola Bingo
Tombola Bingo is one of the most distinctive and accessible options among Online Bingo Sites UK. With its ultra-low stakes starting at just 1p, unique proprietary games, and straightforward bonus terms, Tombola delivers a refreshingly transparent bingo experience backed by a major gambling group. The platform particularly suits budget-conscious players and those tired of complex wagering requirements found on other sites.
While Tombola may not offer the widest variety of payment methods or a loyalty program, its focus on community, affordability, and straightforward gaming makes it a standout choice for both novice and experienced players seeking trusted online bingo sites with a different approach to the standard template.
Tombola Bingo reviews consistently highlight its penny games and cash winnings policy as major advantages in an industry often characterized by high minimum stakes and complex bonus terms.