Indoor bowls
This article is your one-stop guide to indoor bowls in the United Kingdom. Whether you're curious about the game, want to know how to get involved, or simply fancy trying a new sport, we've got you covered!
Article written by: Liam Reeson - Read time 3 minutes - Published 04/07/2024
What is indoor bolws?
Indoor bowls is a derivative of the classic outdoor lawn bowls game. Played on a flat, indoor green, the objective is to roll your bowls as close to a smaller target ball, called the jack, compared to your opponent. It's a sport that can be enjoyed competitively or as a leisurely activity.
The History of Indoor Bowls
The exact origins of indoor bowls are a little murky, but its roots can be traced back to the 19th century when lawn bowls players looked for ways to continue playing during the winter months. The sport gained significant popularity in the 20th century, and today, it's a thriving pastime across the UK. It's popularity has grown to the point where the World Indoor Championships are televised in the UK!
How many indoor bowls clubs are there?
While there isn't a single source to pinpoint the exact number of indoor bowls clubs in the UK, Bowls England, the national governing body, reports over 3,500 bowls clubs across the country. This suggests a substantial presence of indoor bowling facilities throughout the UK, with many clubs likely operating indoors during winter months.
Why should I try INdoor Bowls?
Indoor bowls offers a multitude of benefits:
- Social: It's a fantastic way to meet new people and enjoy a friendly atmosphere.
- Suitable for all ages and abilities: The sport is gentle on the body and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels.
- Mental stimulation: There's more to bowls than meets the eye! Developing a strategic approach is crucial. You'll need to consider the position of the jack, the bowls already played, and the bias (curve) of your own bowls to deliver the most effective shot. This mental exercise helps keep your mind sharp and engaged.
- Competitive or Casual: The beauty of indoor bowls is its flexibility. You can choose to play competitively in leagues and tournaments, testing your skills against others. Or, you can simply enjoy a relaxed game with friends for some friendly competition. Many clubs offer social bowling sessions specifically designed for those who prefer a more casual approach.
What do I need to play indoor bowls?
Most indoor bowls clubs provide all the equipment you need to get started, including bowls and mats. However, you might want to invest in your own equipment:
Shocking stuff right?! Arguably the most important pieces of equipment you'll need to start playing bowls. Most clubs will be able to provide a set for you to borrow while you're learning the ropes. But once you start getting into the groove and playing in leagues/competitions etc, people will normally purchase their own set to keep at the club, or to keep at home! You can find out all about the different bowls manufacturers here.
Indoor bowls shoes are specifically designed footwear for playing indoor bowls. They serve two key purposes:
- Protecting the playing surface
- Comfort and performance
Overall, indoor bowls shoes are essential equipment for anyone who wants to participate in the sport. If you'd like to find out what type of shoes are available, you can read more in our article here.
While not essential for playing, spray chalk is a convenient tool for marking touchers in bowls, this is when a bowl touches the jack while it's in play, making it a "live bowl" if it's to be hit into the ditch later into the end.
The primary function of a bowls measure is to help players assess the distance and position of their bowls relative to the jack. This is very handy when it comes to scorekeeping once an end has finished if you can't split your bowl apart from the opposition's just by looking.
Apart from what is listed above, the remainder of the equipment you can use within a game of bowls isn't exactly mandatory but can enhance your enjoyment/comfort when playing the game. Check out our bowls equipment hub for more info on what's out there!
How can I get involved?
The best way to get involved is to find your local indoor bowls club. Bowls England offers a club finder tool on their website allowing you to search by postcode and contact details. Many clubs offer introductory sessions or "come and try" days, so you can give it a go before committing.
So, why not give indoor bowls a try? It's a fun, social, and rewarding sport that can be enjoyed by everyone!