High Score Arcades, the town-centre gaming venue in the Brunel Shopping Centre, has announced it will close in September on its third anniversary after struggling with rising costs and declining footfall.
Final summer schedule and community appeal
The operator said it had explored a range of options, including renegotiating terms and other alternatives, but was unable to find a sustainable way to continue trading. To mark the end of trading the arcade is staging a six-week summer holiday celebration called "One Final Play", running from Thursday 23 July to Wednesday 2 September.
“We are so proud of everything we built here in Swindon, and we truly tried everything in our power to keep this site open for the long haul. From renegotiating terms to exploring alternative options, we fought to find a sustainable path forward... We urge the community to come down, support our staff, and join us for one final, epic summer of play.”
The statement was made by Nicki Gamblin, head of operations at High Score Arcades.
What the farewell programme includes
- Monday Madness — free upgrade to a 90‑minute session for the price of a 60‑minute session (priced at £12.50 per person).
- Wednesdays — challenge a staff member; winners receive a free return ticket.
- Fridays — the “Beat the Pro” challenge: beat a Pro Score on a selected machine to claim a free return ticket.
- Sundays — quieter session from 10am to 11am with reduced capacity and lower machine volumes to provide a calmer environment.
The arcade originally opened in the Brunel Shopping Centre in the summer of 2023. Operators had previously announced a planned closure in November, blaming rising costs and falling visitors, but a last‑minute deal allowed the site to remain open into 2026. According to the announcement, similar trading pressures during the first six months of 2026 have left the business with no viable option but to close.
Local impact and practical information
The closure will remove a family‑oriented leisure option from Swindon town centre at a time when independent venues face sustained financial pressures. The company has asked the public to support staff during the final weeks by attending events and taking part in the scheduled promotions.
| Dates | Event | Offer |
|---|---|---|
| 23 Jul – 2 Sep | One Final Play (weekly events) | Range of promotions, see schedule |
| Mondays | Monday Madness | 90 mins for price of 60 (£12.50) |
| Wednesdays | Staff challenge | Win to earn free return ticket |
| Fridays | Beat the Pro | Top Pro Score to earn free return ticket |
| Sundays 10–11am | Quiet session | Reduced capacity and lower machine volumes |
The operators did not provide further detail on staff numbers affected or any plans for redeployment. For visitors planning to attend, check the arcade’s social channels for any updates on specific event timings and availability.
As leisure operators in Swindon contend with the combined pressures of operational costs and shifting footfall in shopping centres, the closure of High Score highlights ongoing challenges for town‑centre attraction and family entertainment provision.
