Arkell's on a roll with new skittles

In the middle of all those flashing lights and bleeping noises you might not guess that traditional pub games are far from dead. In fact, down in Arkell's country they seem to be making a comeback.

While many skittle alleys are being converted to long narrow restaurants and function rooms, the Wiltshire brewer has in the last few months built new ones in two of its pubs.

It is not reckless speculation either, but a response to real customer demand. The licensees at both pubs, the Sir Colin Campbell in Gloucester and the Plough at Stratton near Cirencester, both say they can fill their new alleys with skittles teams twice over.

Twenty of Arkell's 100 pubs now have skittle alleys and the company is keenly looking for opportunities to add to the figure.

The revival isn't confined to skittles, either. At the Adam & Eve in Cheltenham, dominoes and cribbage are back.

Managing director James Arkell believes that, while different pub games ebb and flow in popularity, few die out completely.

"Bar billiards and pool are always popular and more people are playing skittles as they rediscover it as an enjoyable and sociable activity. Darts is another perennial favourite, although it's currently experiencing a lull in some areas."

In fact, around the Arkell's estate at least, the story seems to be one of a growing variety of ways in which customers can have some competitive fun as licensees look for more adventurous entertainment.

Bungee jumping, inflatable sumo wrestling and wellie-wanging have all been spotted.

"Whether it's shove ha'penny, pool or a quiz, every pub should offer its customers some entertainment or, for the more competitive, an opportunity to beat the opposition and win," said James.

"Good pub games, like beer, will never go out of fashion. They add to the atmosphere and the community feeling found in all the best pubs."