If you’ve ever played bingo in a bustling hall or joined online bingo, you’ll know it’s not just about marking off numbers to win prizes. The real fun comes from those playful phrases shouted by the bingo caller - from Legs Eleven to Two Fat Ladies.
Whether it’s a clever rhyme, a nod to some iconic British culture, or a cheeky visual, these calls turn a simple game of bingo into a proper laugh.
So, grab your dabber, settle in, and let’s explore some of the UK’s most-loved bingo calls!
Bingo calls are little nicknames given to bingo numbers during the game. Instead of just calling “Number 11”, the bingo caller might shout “Legs Eleven!”, painting a picture and making the moment more fun.
Many calls come from Cockney rhyming slang, songs, famous sayings, or just what the numbers look like. Some have been around since the wartime era, while others are newer additions to the list.
They’re a staple of British bingo, and hearing them is part of what makes bingo games so entertaining!
Here are some of our favourite funny bingo calls, plus the stories behind them:
Thought to be named after Ned Kelly, the famous Australian outlaw, this one gives number one a dash of swagger.
The number two looks like a little duck, and some callers even add a cheerful “quack!” for good measure.
A true classic; the two upright ones look just like a pair of slender legs. Often greeted with whistles and laughter.
Inspired by the ABBA hit “Young and sweet, only seventeen…” Expect a few players to sing along!
One of the most popular calls, this number’s shape makes it instantly recognisable: two ducks side by side.
A rhyming call with a cheeky twist, perfect for raising a smile.
Another rhyming favourite, because who doesn’t love a bit of housework humour?
A nostalgic nod to the old London to Brighton railway line.
The sound of a train rattling down the track and a very satisfying call to hear.
Perhaps the most famous of them all, the shapes of the eighths say it all.
Bingo calls do more than just keep the game moving; they make it social. They can spark a laugh, start a conversation, and give seasoned players those moments of shared recognition.
Some calls even have built-in audience participation - like the “quack-quack” after Two Little Ducks. Others are so well-known that you can guess the number without even hearing it. How cool is that?
If you love the joyful spirit of a live bingo hall, you’ll feel right at home in our bingo chat rooms.
Here, bingo players from all over the UK come together to enjoy a friendly game, have a natter, and yes - share a laugh over classic bingo calls. Our lovely chat hosts are quick with the banter and love throwing in a few cheeky phrases to keep the mood light.
Whether you’re a fan of the classics like Legs Eleven or fancy introducing a new call for a modern twist, the Jackpotjoy chat rooms are the perfect place to join in. You might even make a few new bingo buddies along the way.
You don’t have to be in a hall or online to enjoy bingo call - you can bring all the joy to your living room!
Here are a few tips for hosting your own bingo night at home:
Hosting a bingo party at home is a great way to celebrate birthdays, family get-togethers, or even just a rainy Friday night. It’s simple to set up, and you can adapt the pace and style to suit your crowd.
Here at Jackpotjoy, we love keeping the spirit of bingo alive, and that means celebrating these iconic calls. Whether you’re playing in our friendly online bingo rooms, chatting with other bingo fans, or hosting your own game at home, these funny phrases are part of the charm.
From lively bingo games to our huge range of slots and casino favourites, there’s always something going on, and plenty of laughs to be had.
Next time you play, try adding a few of these calls into the mix. Whether it’s Legs Eleven bringing a cheeky whistle from the crowd or Clickety-Click rolling off the tongue, they’re guaranteed to brighten your bingo game.
So, eyes down and remember; it’s not just about winning, it’s about enjoying every call along the way!
Grab fun by the balls and join Jackpotjoy today. Explore our friendly online bingo rooms, discover even more fun bingo lingo on our blog, and enjoy being part of the Jackpotjoy community.
All offers mentioned correct at the time of writing but may be subject to change.