Londoners can enjoy all sorts of activities on nights out, ranging from the tame (mini golf) to the unconventional (axe throwing), but the Fulham outpost of Sixes Cricket offers something different with its cricket simulator.
Don’t be put off if you don’t know your wicket from your wrist spin, as we’re happy to report even the most sports-adverse will find Sixes plenty of fun. The Fulham location is found in a former pub and features a bar, dining room and batting cages - there are a few benches outside too, ideal for drinks in the sun before working on your batting average.
You start by filling out your details (including your dominant hand and your level of skill) before entering the batting cages. A giant screen features a bowler running towards you, before a real life rubber ball flies out from the screen - the aim is to hit a six and avoid the ball touching the wicket.
Once you have finished, you can tuck into a menu of posh pub grub. We began with a selection of sharing plates - we were let down by mac ‘n’ cheese croquettes that didn’t pack the indulgent punch they promised, although things soon improved with the gloriously sticky ox cheek mini buns, paired with shredded sweet and sour cabbage which cut through the richness. We also loved feistily crumbed lamb nuggets served with a gravy dipping pot, while those looking for something veggie can opt for barbecued sweet potato.
For mains, our buttermilk chicken burger was elevated into the realm of epic by additions of crispy chicken skin and smoky garlic mayonnaise, plus subtle flashes of heat courtesy of sriracha. Special mention of Sixes’ fries is also needed: fat, golden, crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they’re among the best we’ve eaten.
We were too full for dessert but retro offerings like bread and butter pudding are enough to tempt us back. Efficient, friendly service and fair prices only add to Sixes Cricket’s appeal, solidifying it as a welcome addition to London’s ever-expanding portfolio of activity bars.