New to Bowls?

The aim of bowls is simple: roll your bowls so they finish closer to the little white ball — the jack — than your opponent's do. Once everyone has bowled, you count up. You score one point for every bowl of yours that is closer to the jack than your opponent's nearest bowl. That single round is called an end, and a game is made up of many ends played up and down the green.

Here is the part that surprises every newcomer: bowls are not round. Each one is shaped so that it curves as it slows down — this is called the bias. It means you don't aim straight at the jack; you aim off to one side and let the bowl swing in. It feels strange for about ten minutes, and then it clicks. Learning to read that curve is what makes the game so absorbing.

Bowls can be played one-against-one (singles) or in teams of two (pairs), three (triples) or four (fours, sometimes called rinks). In a team game each player has a job, and you soon find your place. A typical game lasts around two to three hours, at a gentle, sociable pace with plenty of time to chat between ends.

Don't worry about remembering all of this — nobody expects you to. Our coaches and members will walk you through every step, and you'll pick it up far quicker than you think.

For your first visit, all you need is flat-soled shoes or trainers — this protects the green, so it's the one firm rule. Beyond that, just wear something comfortable you can move easily in. The club provides bowls in every size, so there's nothing to buy.

Dress is relaxed and casual for open days, taster sessions and social roll-ups. Club shirts and navy shorts only come into it later, once you're playing in competitive matches — and by then you'll know exactly what you need.

Bowls has a few gentle customs, but none of them are scary and everyone will happily help you find your feet. The main ones:

• Stand still and stay quiet behind the head while someone is about to bowl — movement in their eyeline is distracting.
• When it's your team's turn to bowl, the rink is yours — this is called possession of the rink. Wait your turn and let the other team have theirs.
• Keep to your own rink and try not to wander across the neighbouring games.
• Don't stand on or step onto the edges of the green. If the jack is close to the edge, step carefully onto the bank instead — if you're able.
• Keep up with the pace of play, so nobody is left waiting around.
• Shake hands with your opponents before and after the game — win or lose, the friendly spirit matters more than the score.