Welcome to the second post of my unique date ideas series. After me and my partner became bored of every date night consisting of a meal and some drinks, I decided to explore more interesting date night options for couples to enjoy. Today I will be sharing my experience of Sixes Cricket Club in Fitzrovia, London.
Previous Review: Bird and Blend’s Tea Mixology Workshop
Please note: Me and my partner were invited to this event in exchange for a review.
Description of Sixes Cricket Club in Fitzrovia:
Mini golf was the only ‘sport’ I considered me and my partner playing together. Pirate Cove, Adventure Island… That was until I discovered Sixes Cricket Club. Reminiscent of the teenage arcade haunts I used to visit, Sixes is the more luxurious, cool, grown-up version where instead of eating frozen burgers and slotting coins, you eat gastropub BBQ food, sip delicious cocktails and bat balls with high-tech cricket simulators.
If you are not a cricket fan or an expert of the game, fear not, Sixes has transformed cricket from the age-old game into a fun batting challenge. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, the batting nets cater to all ages and abilities.
How Sixes cricket works:
To play Sixes simulator cricket, you book a time slot and ideally download the app before arriving (this puts your scores up on the board to keep track off). You then place any food and drink orders while you log in, choose your level and begin to play. One partner picks up a bat and waits until a ball shoots out of the hole for them to hit, while the other sits at the batting table, either cheering or laughing.
Ability levels can be changed at any time. The goal is to reach the highest score possible by aiming to hit the ball at either of the assigned number points, from 1 – 6. Just like in the real game, there is a wicket you want to avoid hitting (I need to remember for next time).
My experience:
Entering Sixes, the atmosphere was the first thing I noticed. Even on a Friday afternoon, the place had a liveliness and energy that bounced from the upbeat and many ‘old school’ songs, right through to the people playing cricket and drinking cocktails. Me and my partner instantly wanted to get started. Staff were really attentive and continued to check up on us throughout our visit.
The venue itself is decorated in cricket memorabilia, hanging from the ceilings, up on the walls and in glass cabinets. There are several areas to relax in – ideal for a date night as you can swap from a quieter dining atmosphere to a more animated without moving to a different location.
Cricket:
Stepping in the batting cage, I felt extremely embarrassed and awkward. Next door to a window, I imagined the hysterics and smirks as I failingly attempted to hit the balls. Of course, this didn’t happen – well, I failed to hit the ball numerous times but everyone was having too much fun to pay attention. The better I got and the more I practised, the more I wanted to keep playing. So much so, I tried to take over my partner’s turn who wasn’t having any of it. The highlight was scoring a ‘4’ nine separate times. My partner thoroughly enjoyed himself and was gutted when he went to bat and our time was up.
Sixes Cricket Club Menu
During our cricket, we drank a couple of cocktails and then went to sit down and have food. Our first dish was recommended by our wonderful host, Stephanie: Burnt End Nuggets with Beef gravy. Possibly the fanciest and tastiest nuggets we have ever eaten. For our mains, my partner chose the Sixes Chicken Burger while I had a Beef Brisket Volcano. Picture braised beef, bone marrow, applewood cheddar, chilli and flatbread all in one dish! Dessert was slightly disappointing. We found our Warm Cookie Dough Skillet didn’t have enough ice-cream or texture.
The food overall exceeded our expectations and was not only presented well but tasted high-quality and very filling. We both loved the cocktails we ordered, our favourite being Club Tropicana.
Would I change anything?
When visiting again, I would order a second lot of chicken nuggets instead of dessert. I would also be more mindful of where to sit. We chose to dine in a room that was initially quiet but quickly became loud through a group batting beside us. As mentioned however, there are different areas so if visiting, be mindful of where you want to sit.
We booked 30 mins batting but we could have easily appreciated an hour between us.
Value of Sixes Cricket Club London as a unique date idea:
This was an experience where me and my partner both left and thought, let’s do that again! We don’t always agree on films to watch or food to eat, but we agreed instantly on going back to Sixes. I love that the date night offers a cute challenge between us, and something more than simply sitting and talking. I love that the crowd was diverse and I could happily wear trainers.
It’s an opportunity to have a real laugh with your partner and do something a little out of the ordinary. Perhaps not ideal for a first date, but certainly a perfect spot for thereafter.
Good to know:
- While Sixes offer walk-in visits, the batting cages can become very busy. It helps to book a couple of weeks in advance if you are hoping to visit on a Friday night or a Saturday. Prior to your visit, download the app, Sixes Cricket.
- Sixes have various offers for off-peak times as well as for students.
- Prices start at £30 for 30 minutes of batting. It is recommended to book an hour at £70 if you are on a double date.
- Locations include Fitzrovia, Fulham and Manchester. I was informed Sixes will be moving to both London Westfield shopping centres soon.
- Vegetarian and vegan options are available on the food menu.
Click Here to visit Sixes website.
Leave a Reply