Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to join the Club ?
No experience is required. We have bowls coaches available to offer coaching sessions to all new bowlers plus for those existing members who wish to have additional coaching on specific areas of their bowling, they will need to arrange with one of our coaches a convenient time to work on their chosen area of bowls play.
What specialist equipment is require ?
The minimum ‘specialist’ equipment required is a set of bowls (you can purchase second hand bowls at very reasonable prices from the club usually around £30/£40 per set) or new bowls which can cost around £400 and Bowls Shoes. All your clothing can be as cheap or as expensive as you like (as long as it is the correct colour).
The club provides all the equipment needed to play a match , Jack, mats, scorecards and scoreboards etc. Other equipment you are advised to have is a measure and some chalk .
Yes - as long as it is within Club opening times and there are free rinks to play on, you can play for FREE for as long as the rink is empty, 7 days a week!
Is the club available for hire ?
When the match calendar allows, the clubhouse is for hire. In the past we have welcomed anniversaries, birthday celebrations, wakes, engagement parties, barbecues or company team building days that took the shape of bowling parties. The green is open April to September but the clubhouse, bar and kitchen is potentially available all year round. Free car park.
I don’t know all the rules , will this stop me playing ?
No – The basic rules are easily picked up and the more you play the more you will learn. Normally there is always an experienced player at the club you can ask if in doubt and we have 4 coaches to help you learn the basics in bowls. Take a look at the short 5 minute bowling videos on this website to help all understand these rules.
Can non members (like friends and family) enter the club ?
Yes – Spectators are always welcome. To join in with social events however, you will need to register as a social member which cost only £35 per year.
What happens when it is raining, do you play ?
Firstly if you do not have waterproof’s you will get wet ! and yes we do play in light rain. Play is stopped for heavy showers to avoid the green getting damaged.
Who runs and maintains the Club facilities ?
The members do. Cleaning, small repairs, flowers and general maintenance etc is performed by the club members. The bowling lawn is maintained by a professional greenskeeper. All the winter and social activities are run by member volunteers. It is a club for members, run by members.
Do I have to play in leagues ?
No - We have a large friendly fixture list during the season plus various leagues but no one is forced to play in these games. If you do not put yourself forward you will not be pressurised into playing.
Can I leave my bowls, clothes, etc. at the club ?
Lockers are available at £5.00 per year and are located in the respective changing rooms.
Yes, we have a comprehensive drinks range at very reasonable prices.