Question 1

I'm just starting bowls.  Will I be able to get some help?

Accepted Answer

Yes!  Coaching is available for any member who would like it.  This is either in fixed sessions or individually by arrangement with one of our friendly coaches.  Also, we can offer you a 'buddy' system where an existing Member would be your contact and, if you wish, be your guide to the way the Club operates.

Question 2

When is the Club's playing season?

Accepted Answer

Our season runs from mid-April through to mid-September each year.

Question 3

Who maintains the Club's facilities?

Accepted Answer

All our facilities are maintained by the Club's members on a volunteer basis.  We have a greenkeeper and team who look after the playing surface all year round and other teams which look after the clubhouse, the bar and catering.  All Members are expected to take their turn to clean the clubhouse  once a season and take a turn serving match teas.

Question 4

Do I need bowls experience to join the Club?

Accepted Answer

No, you don't need any experience.   Coaching is available from our experienced coaches if you are learning from scratch.

Question 5

What equipment will I need?

Accepted Answer

All you need to start with are some flat-soled shoes or trainers.  The Club has several sets of bowls of various sizes/weights that you can use until you know which size and model are best for you.

When you get to the stage of playing in friendlies or competitive matches then you will need flat-soled bowls shoes, a club shirt and either black trousers or black bowls shorts.

Eventually you'll also require your own set of bowls, which will cost from around £40 (second hand) to £300 (new).  When you're ready to look for your own bowls, our coaches will be happy to help you identify what you need.

Question 6

As a Member, can I just turn up and play?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can provided that there is a rink free.  However, Monday and Thursday mornings are generally not available, as that's when the green is being maintained, but most other weekday mornings and afternoons there should be space for you to play.  On many weekend afternoons there will be Club matches which can take up most of the rinks.

The club also operates a rink booking system so that a rink can be reserved in advance.

Question 7

Do you have a club night?

Accepted Answer

Yes, on most Wednesday evenings a number of rinks are reserved from 6pm through to 8pm for members to just turn up and play among themselves.  There is usually someone on hand to organise players into teams for the night.

The bar is usually open on club nights and on some club nights burgers are available.

Question 8

Can I leave my bowls, shoes etc at the Club?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can, but only if you have a locker.  These are available to Members for a small annual fee.

Question 9

Do I have to play in Club matches?

Accepted Answer

No, although we do have a number of friendly matches which are suitable for players of all standards.  These are fun and a good way for new Members to meet other people.  However, if you don't want to play in them, you won't be pressurised.

Question 10

Do you play in the rain?

Accepted Answer

In league matches, we do play unless it's raining so hard that it threaten the playing surface.  In friendlies, we often come off the green if it's unpleasant but can still get a bit wet.  Most Members have a set of bowls waterproofs for these situations.

Question 11

How long does a game of bowls take?

Accepted Answer

A normal game of rinks (four players a side) should take around two and a half hours.  Other formats will take more or less time.

Question 12

Can I play, even if I don't know all the rules?

Accepted Answer

Yes, of course you can.  The basic rules are fairly simple and you'll pick these up very quickly.  The more you play, the more you'll learn, and other Members will help you especially when you play in friendly matches or on Club Nights.  Our coaches can also help.

Question 13

Does the club have a bar?

Accepted Answer

The Club does have a bar for Members and their invited guests, selling drinks at competitive prices.  It is open most evenings during the playing season and at other times when matches are taking place.

Frequently asked questions

I'm just starting bowls. Will I be able to get some help?