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Murray Jameson

May 29
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Why Team building days are more important than ever

By Team Building

In a world of back-to-back video calls, reply-all email chains, and the unspoken agreement that the camera stays off on a Friday, it’s never been easier for teams to drift apart without anyone really noticing. Team building days aren’t just a nice addition to the calendar anymore. They’re one of the most important investments a business can make in its people and when they’re done right, they’re also genuinely brilliant fun.

Your team needs to actually see each other

There’s only so much you can learn about a colleague from their Slack status and their muted microphone. Team building days create the kind of real, human moments that no amount of digital communication can replicate. The colleague who’s always brief in meetings? Turns out they’re absolutely hilarious on a bowling lane. The quiet one from accounts? Terrifyingly good at curling. You simply don’t find these things out on a Teams call and those discoveries are exactly what makes a team feel like a team.

Improve communication (without the awkward icebreakers)

Nobody wants to stand in a circle sharing their most embarrassing childhood memory. The good news is, that when you put people in front of a crazy golf hole in the Secret Garden or hand them a curling stone, the conversation starts itself and the only thing anyone is being forced to confess is their wildly overconfident approach to a windmill obstacle. Friendly competition has a way of stripping back the professional armour and letting people just be themselves. And when people feel comfortable with each other, communication at work becomes genuinely easier. The bonus? Someone will absolutely claim they “used to play golf” and then spend twenty minutes unable to get the ball round the windmill. That moment alone is worth the whole day!

Break the routine and power the motivation

There’s a reason the best ideas rarely happen at a desk. Getting out of the usual environment shakes something loose. People think differently, engage differently, and come back to work with a renewed sense of energy and purpose. A team building day at The Flower Bowl isn’t just a break from the routine; it’s the reset button your team didn’t know they needed. One day of proper fun can do more for morale than three months of motivational emails with suspiciously stock-photo or AI imagery.

Make everyone feel genuinely valued

Here’s the thing about a well-planned away day: it says something. It says that the people who show up every day, answer the emails, and keep things moving actually matter. Not in a lanyard-and-certificate way, but in a real, tangible way. A sit down meal after a morning of activities, a round of cue golf, a film in a private cinema these are the moments people remember and talk about. Not the Q3 targets. Not the appraisal cycle. The day they beat the boss at bowling and never let them forget it.

Because The Flower Bowl was made for days like this

From ten-pin bowling with a luxury twist to an Olympic-sized curling rink, The Flower Bowl has everything you need to build a day that works for every personality and ability in your team. Add private dining, meeting room options, or a session in the Copper Lounge and you’ve got a full, flexible day that can be as structured or as relaxed as you need it to be.

The best team building days aren’t the ones people endure, they’re the ones people bring up months later, unprompted, with a grin. The Flower Bowl is where those days happen.

May 29
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Planning the perfect corporate away day in Lancashire

By Activities

Let’s be honest, organising a corporate away day is a bit of a balancing act. Between wrangling diaries, keeping everyone happy, and making sure the day actually feels different from a Tuesday in the office, the pressure can mount fast. That’s exactly why The Flower Bowl exists. Everything you need, all under one roof, just a short hop from Preston.

Kick off with coffee (and maybe a cheeky bit of cake)

A great corporate away day begins with a relaxed start. Teams can meet at the Oasis Coffee Shop where the team can settle in before the action begins. Think proper coffee, warming toasties, melty paninis, and a slice of something tempting from the cake counter because if you’re going to start the day right, you may as well start it deliciously. It’s the perfect icebreaker moment; people naturally relax, chat, and arrive at the main activities already in a good mood.

Get the team moving (and laughing)

Now for the fun part. The Flower Bowl’s activity line-up is designed to get people out of their comfort zones in the best possible way. Whether you’re nudging a curling stone down the ice, sizing up a tricky crazy golf hole with suspicious confidence, or trying to pretend you’ve bowled before, these are the moments that create real team memories. You’ll hear more genuine laughter in an hour here than in six months of team meetings.

The beauty of it? You don’t need to be sporty to enjoy it. Everyone can get involved, and that’s the whole point.

Space to think, plan, and breathe

Between sessions, you’ll want somewhere to regroup and The Copper Lounge has you covered. Available for private use, it’s a relaxed, stylish space that works equally well for a casual brainstorm, a quick debrief, or simply letting people recharge before round two. No projectors or whiteboards required; sometimes the best ideas happen over comfortable seating and good conversation.

For anything more structured, the dedicated private meeting rooms are a genuine gem. They can be configured as a full open-plan session or divided into smaller breakout rooms, with layouts available in both boardroom and theatre-style. Whether you’re running a strategy day, a training session, or a company-wide update, it adapts to you, not the other way around.

And if you really want to make an impression? Book a film screening in one of the private cinemas. Watching your annual presentation on a big screen rather than a laptop propped on a table? Now that’s a talking point.

Food (The best part) that brings people together

After a morning of activities and meetings, your team will be ready to eat and The Flower Bowl has the options to suit every crowd. For a proper sit-down occasion, Blooms offers a relaxed restaurant setting that feels like a real treat rather than a typical work lunch. If the vibe calls for something more casual, The Ocean’s Fish and Chips Restaurant hits the spot every time. Honestly, there’s something universally unifying about a good portion of chips.

As smooth as ice from start to finish

Here’s what event organisers actually care about: does it run smoothly? With free parking for everyone and easy access from the M6, the logistics largely take care of themselves. You won’t spend your morning fielding texts from lost colleagues, and everyone arrives ready to go.

The whole day can be shaped around your team’s size, schedule, and goals. Whether you’re a team of ten or fifty, whether you need a half-day burst of energy or a full day of mixed activities and meetings, it all comes together here.

Mar 02
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Do not be fooled by the cocktails. In curling, the ice should always come first.

By Team Building

Curling is having another moment in the spotlight thanks to the Winter Olympics. Televised matches show drama, precision and nerve. What they do not always show is the quiet craft that makes it all possible. The ice.

As curling grows in popularity across the UK, more venues are adding it to their line up. Some focus on neon lights, party packages and colourful cocktails. There is nothing wrong with a great bar. At The Flower Bowl we appreciate a good party as much as anyone. But when it comes to curling, the quality of the ice must always come first.

Because if the best ice in the building is in your glass rather than on the rink, you are not getting the real experience.

Why proper curling ice matters

Curling is not just sliding a stone and hoping for the best. The sport relies on a carefully prepared pebbled surface. Tiny droplets of water are sprayed across the sheet to create texture. That texture allows the stone to glide, curl and respond to sweeping.

If the pebble is inconsistent, the game becomes unpredictable. Stones can drag, over curl or travel unevenly. Strategy disappears and frustration takes over.

When you step onto high-quality ice, you notice it straight away. The stone releases smoothly, the curl develops gradually and cleanly, sweeping has a visible effect.

On poorly prepared ice, the experience is very different. Shots that should draw into the house fall short. Straight deliveries wander and It becomes less about skill and more about chance.

For beginners, that can mean missing out on what makes curling so satisfying. For experienced players, it can mean the difference between a well-judged end and a wasted one.

Where great shots meet great events

Curling has always mixed healthy competition with plenty of laughs. One minute you are deep in tactical discussion, the next you are celebrating a surprise shot that somehow sneaks into the house. It is exactly why it works so well for corporate team building, group celebrations and social get-togethers. You can take the game seriously without taking yourselves too seriously.

At The Flower Bowl, our Olympic sized rink is prepared with real care, so when you send a stone down the sheet it actually behaves the way it should. It glides. It curls. It responds when your teammates sweep like their pride depends on it.

Then, once you have settled the score, that is when you head to Barbossa for cocktails or book a table at Blooms for something delicious. Victory drinks taste better when they are earned.

It is the best of both worlds. Proper curling on quality ice, followed by great food and drink. Just in the right order.

Get in touch to discuss your curling event.

 

Dec 03
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5 unique team-building ideas you can try in Preston

By Activities, Corporate, Team Building

If you’re looking for memorable team-building activities in Preston, we’re proud to offer something a little different here at The Flower Bowl. Our entertainment centre is designed to bring people together through fun, creativity and shared experiences, making it an ideal destination for corporate away days, staff socials and group events across Lancashire.

We know that team building works best when it feels enjoyable and effortless. That’s why we’ve created a space where colleagues can relax, connect and collaborate, all while trying activities they may not have experienced before. From competitive games to calming shared moments, our mix of indoor and outdoor-inspired attractions gives teams the perfect setting to bond in new and meaningful ways.

So whether you’re planning a company-wide event, searching for corporate team-building ideas near Preston, or simply want a refreshing alternative to traditional workshops, here are five unique activities we offer to help your team switch off, have fun and grow stronger together.

Curling like a pro

Forget the usual trust falls and flip charts. Curling is a great leveller that brings out teamwork and strategy. Our Olympic-sized rink is ideal for beginners and regular players alike, with guidance on hand to get everyone sliding.

Crazy golf in a greenhouse

The Secret Garden Crazy Golf Course is full of character. Surrounded by trees, water features and floral displays, it’s a relaxed and cheerful way to build friendly competition among colleagues.

Luxury bowling sessions

Bowling gets a makeover at the Copper Bowl. Think stylish lanes, ambient lighting and plush seating. Add drinks and snacks, and it’s the perfect mix of social and fun.

Private cinema screenings

Hire one of the boutique screens and treat your team to a film or your personalised presentation in comfort. With sofa seating and themed interiors, it’s a great way to wind down or kick off a creative session and increase productivity

Virtual golf challenges

The Master’s Touch Golf Simulators let your team compete on world-famous courses, without leaving Lancashire. It’s all about fun, accuracy and a touch of rivalry.

With food and drink venues throughout the site, The Flower Bowl keeps your day flowing smoothly from one activity to the next. Ideal for teams that want more than a boardroom and buffet.

Ready to plan a team-building day that’s anything but ordinary? We’d love to help you create an unforgettable experience that your colleagues will be talking about long after the day ends.

Get in touch with our team to book your visit or explore our group packages today.

Sep 22
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Why the right setting matters: make an impact with cinema-style presentations

By Cinema, Meetings, Networking

When it comes to delivering a presentation that leaves a lasting impression, the setting can be just as important as the content. At The Flower Bowl, our premium cinema screens offer a unique and memorable space for business presentations, product launches, or team briefings.

Forget tired boardrooms and flat-screen projectors. Step into a stylish, sofa-seated screen where your audience can relax and focus, giving your message the attention it deserves.

A cinematic space that works hard for you

With three private screens named after screen legends Elizabeth Taylor, Ingrid Bergman, and Uma Thurman, each room combines comfort with professional presentation facilities. Whether you’re unveiling a new product or sharing company-wide updates, the cinema offers:

  • Full HD projection and audio
  • Cosy, tiered sofa seating for clear sightlines
  • An intimate setting ideal for focused attention
  • A stylish, memorable backdrop for your brand
  • Ideal for corporate events and team sessions

Hosting your next presentation at The Flower Bowl shows your team, clients, or partners that you’re serious about quality. It’s a chance to make them feel valued while delivering your message with clarity and impact.

Pair your presentation with refreshments, a meal in one of our on-site restaurants, or even some friendly competition on curling ice rink, or on the golf course. It’s everything you need for a well-rounded corporate day out.

Make your message stand out

If you’re planning an event that deserves more than a flipchart and coffee table, consider the cinema experience. It’s not just about what you say, but how you make people feel, and at The Flower Bowl, we help you do both.

Get in touch today to find out more about hosting presentations or corporate events in our premium cinema screens.

Sep 22
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Lancashire’s Corporate Challenge: networking with a competitive twist

By Corporate, Networking

Looking for a fresh way to bring your team together? The Flower Bowl’s Corporate Challenge offers a fun and informal setting to build stronger teams, boost morale, and connect with other local businesses – all in one great night out.

Perfect for team building, client hosting, or just letting off some steam, the Corporate Challenge is a great introduction to the power of play outside the workplace.

Build stronger teams, naturally

Shared experiences build stronger teams. Our Corporate Challenge is designed to do exactly that – giving colleagues a chance to bond over bowling strikes, laugh their way through tricky golf shots, and cheer each other on. These moments can spark better communication, improve collaboration, and boost team spirit back in the workplace.

A ready-made networking opportunity

As well as strengthening internal bonds, this event offers the perfect chance to meet other businesses from across Lancashire. Whether you’re making new connections, introducing new hires, or simply getting your business name out there, the relaxed, social setting makes conversation easy.

What’s included

In teams of four, you’ll compete in two fun-filled rounds of activity – first in our Copper Bowl Bowling Alley, then through our Secret Garden Crazy Golf course. After the scores are tallied, the night ends with a fish and chip supper in The Ocean Restaurant – an ideal way to round off the evening.

Whether you’re in it to win or simply out to enjoy an evening with your team, the Corporate Challenge is the perfect mix of business and pleasure.

For our next event see our corporate event page.

Spaces are limited so early booking is advised. Get your team together and join the challenge – you might even take home the title of Lancashire’s top team.

Sep 22
Love0

Why curling is the perfect team-building activity

By Activities

When it comes to team-building activities, the usual options like escape rooms, trust exercises, and group hikes can start to feel a bit overused. Curling offers something refreshingly different.

It is quirky, strategic, and surprisingly social. More importantly, it is an ideal way to bring a team together in a fun and meaningful way. Here’s why curling should be on your radar for your next team building event.

1. Everyone starts from scratch

Very few people have experience curling. That means the entire team learns together, regardless of age, job title, or athletic background. It puts everyone on an equal footing, which helps break down barriers and encourages collaboration right from the beginning.

2. Strategy and communication are essential

Curling is often described as chess on ice. Each shot requires planning, coordination, and the ability to adapt. Team members need to talk through their moves, adjust their tactics as the game progresses, and stay in sync throughout. Strong communication directly impacts performance, which mirrors the dynamics of an effective workplace.

3. Defined roles encourage trust

A curling team is made up of four players, each with a specific role. The lead, second, third, and skip all contribute to the outcome, and no single player can carry the team alone. This setup encourages team work, trust, and respect, since everyone must perform their role well for the group to succeed.

4. It is inclusive and low-impact

Curling does not require extreme athleticism, which makes it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether someone is highly active or more comfortable taking things slowly, they can still fully participate. This inclusivity helps ensure that no one feels left out.

5. It is fun, unusual, and memorable

Sliding a heavy stone across the surface of the ice while others sweep in front of it is not something most people do every day. The uniqueness of the activity makes it engaging and fun. It creates moments of laughter and surprise, which help people connect and remember the experience long after it ends.

6. Built-in time for socialising

Many curling events include a social element at the end. After the match, teams usually gather in a lounge for food, drinks, and conversation. This relaxed setting gives people a chance to debrief and connect in a more informal way, which strengthens the relationships built on the ice.

Final thoughts

Curling brings together teamwork, problem solving skills, strategy, and fun in a way few other corporate team building activities can. It helps to improve communication, builds trust, and leaves everyone with a shared experience they will talk about for weeks. If your team needs a fresh take on bonding, curling might be the perfect choice.