Introduction
Let’s get straight to it - big bingo wins do happen, but they’re extremely rare. In this article, we’re looking at the most eye-catching examples from across the UK. These are the standout stories where players landed substantial jackpots in clubs and at online bingo sites, often from low-cost tickets. However, it’s essential to remember that these wins are the exception, not the norm.
This article isn’t about chasing unrealistic wins - it’s a look back at real moments when players hit the jackpot, how it happened, what they did with the money, and where some of the biggest games are found today. While these stories are fascinating, it’s important to view them for what they are: rare events that don’t reflect the typical bingo experience.
Whether you're a seasoned roomie or just curious about bingo, this article is worth reading - especially if you're on the lookout for the latest bingo bonuses, and remember that bonuses are for fun and not a way to make money.
Hi, I’m Jenny Mason – OLBG’s Queen of Bingo.
The Top 5 Biggest Bingo Wins
At OLBG, our goal is simple: to bring you clear, honest, and genuinely helpful bingo advice without the fluff. I’m Jenny Mason, and with years of experience working behind the scenes at some of the UK’s top bingo operators, I know what separates a great site from a forgettable one.
To make sure you’re getting the most accurate info possible, this article has also been fully reviewed and fact-checked by my colleague Sam Darkens - so you can play (and pick) with confidence.
The image above highlights some of the most popular ways winners have spent their bingo windfalls! But right now, let’s take a look at the top 5 biggest bingo wins in UK history:
1. John Orchard – £5.9 Million on Butler’s Bingo (2012) 🏆
- Stake: 30p.
- Game: Progressive jackpot slot linked to bingo site.
- Who: Retired factory worker from Lincolnshire.
- What he did with the money: Bought a Jaguar XF, a holiday in the Caribbean, and retired early from his job at a job centre. He also bought a bungalow and shared the winnings with family.
2. Soraya Lowell – £1.2 Million at a Local Bingo Hall (2008) 🏆
- Where: Coatbridge, Scotland.
- Why it's wild: This is one of the most famous stories because she split the prize with her bingo partner and cleaning lady, Agnes O’Hara.
- What happened to the money: Sadly, Soraya later declared bankruptcy—a reminder that even big wins need careful money management to last.
3. Lisa Potter – £1.3 Million on Paddy Power Bingo (2012) 🏆
- Game: Ladyluck's Progressive
- Fun fact: She logged in “on a whim” while her husband hogged the remote.
- Who: Lisa is a mum who played on a whim while her husband watched the Euros.
- Post-win spending: She reportedly went on a spending spree that included a new house, designer handbags, and treats for the kids.
4. Lucky Mum – £1 Million on Gala Bingo (2015) 🏆
- Who: The player wanted to stay anonymous (because… well wouldn’t you?)
- Game: Millionaire Maker Bingo Room
5. Pauline Clarke – £1.1 Million at The Castle Club, Merthyr Tydfil (2008) 🏆
- Who: A grandmother from Wales
- Where: A National Game at a land-based bingo hall
- What she did next: Pauline was “in shock” after the win and said she'd take her time before deciding how to spend the money - though helping family and taking a holiday were top of her list.
- Why it’s iconic: Her win was one of the biggest-ever land-based bingo payouts at the time, and it made serious headlines across the UK.
Different Types of Bingo Games: A Guide for You
Top Things Bingo Jackpot Winners Spend Their Money On
So, what do people actually do after winning a rare bingo jackpot? Spoiler alert: it’s not all champagne and hot tubs. From sensible spending to well-deserved splurges, here’s where those jackpot pounds usually go:
💸 Paying Off Debt or Mortgages
It’s not flashy, but it’s smart. Most winners use the money to clear credit cards, loans, or wipe out the mortgage - financial freedom first.
👨👩👧👦 Helping Out Family
Whether it's setting the kids up for life or helping mum and dad retire, sharing the win with loved ones is one of the first things many bingo millionaires do.
🚗 Buying a New Car
Let’s face it - if you suddenly win six figures or more, that old hatchback is getting upgraded. Popular choices include Jaguar, BMW, and Range Rover.
✈️🏝️ Luxury Holidays
From the Maldives to Mediterranean cruises, big winners often splash out on once-in-a-lifetime trips, usually booked ASAP after the win.
👜🛍️ Treating Themselves to Little Luxuries
Whether it’s a designer handbag, kitchen revamp, or shopping spree at Harrods, many winners enjoy a guilt-free splurge after the practical stuff is sorted.
Where To Find Jackpots Games
While massive wins are rare, there are still plenty of bingo rooms offering seriously exciting jackpots. These sites are home to some progressive jackpots in 2025.
- Wide choice of bingo rooms and bingo variants
- Excellent welcome bonus
Final Thoughts
It’s a conversation most of us have had - what would you spend a big win on? I love hearing people’s answers to that question. For me, travel would be right at the top of the list (somewhere sunny, with cocktails, a good book and no phone signal, please!).
Sure, those massive bingo wins grab headlines, but for most of us, it’s the fun of the game and the excitement of being part of something social that really keeps us coming back. The jackpot? That’s just the cherry on top. Remember, bingo is meant to be a fun and social activity - not a way to make money.
So, what about you - what would you do if your numbers came up? Let me know in the comments below!
And remember to set limits and take breaks when you play bingo, and if you ever feel like you’re not in control, support is available in the safeplay tools area of the bingo site you're playing at.
