Lawn bowls, also known as lawn bowls sport, is a precision outdoor game where players roll biased balls (called lawn bowls balls) toward a smaller target ball (the jack). Played on a flat or slightly curved grass or artificial surface, this strategic and social game is beloved in Australia, the UK, and New Zealand, where it’s a staple of community clubs and competitive leagues.
Unlike fast-paced sports, lawn bowls is a relaxed yet skillful outdoor bowling activity that appeals to all ages. Whether you call it yard bowling or backyard bowling, the game combines strategy, accuracy, and camaraderie. Many enjoy it for its low-impact nature, making it ideal for seniors, while younger players appreciate its tactical depth. From casual barefoot bowls sessions to high-stakes tournaments like the Australian Open, lawn bowls offers something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll cover the lawn bowls game rules, equipment (including lawn bowling bowls and accessories), where to buy lawn bowls for sale, and how to join a lawn bowls club near you.
What is Lawn Bowls?
Origins of Lawn Bowls
The lawn bowls game has a rich history dating back to 13th-century England, where it was played on monastery lawns. By the 16th century, it became a popular pastime, even facing bans for distracting archers from military practice! The modern fair lawn bowling game evolved in Scotland, where standardized rules were introduced in the 19th century.
Today, lawn bowls is a globally recognized sport, with strong followings in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and South Africa. It’s even an official Commonwealth Games sport.
How the Game is Played
Players take turns rolling their lawn ball (bowl) toward the jack (a smaller white or yellow ball). The goal is to get as close as possible, with points awarded for the nearest bowls. The unique bias (curve) of the bowls adds strategy—players must account for the green’s slope and their bowl’s natural drift.
Why It’s Popular in Australia & New Zealand
- Social & Inclusive – Clubs welcome all ages and skill levels.
- Low-Impact Exercise – Great for seniors and those with mobility concerns.
- Competitive & Casual Play – From barefoot bowls to elite tournaments.
- Affordable & Accessible – Many lawn bowls clubs offer free trials.
Lawn Bowls Rules for Beginners
Basic Rules of Lawn Bowls
- Setup – The jack is rolled first, and players take turns bowling.
- Delivery – Bowls must be rolled (not thrown) underarm.
- Bias – The bowl’s lawn bowls bias (curve) affects its path.
- Scoring – Only the team with the closest bowl scores (1 point per bowl closer than the opponent’s best).
Understanding Lawn Bowls Bias
- Bowls are not perfectly round—one side is slightly heavier, causing a bias (curve).
- A lawn bowls bias chart helps players choose the right bowl for their playing style (e.g., narrow vs. wide bias).
- Narrow bias = Less curve, better for fast greens.
- Wide bias = More curve, ideal for slower greens.
How Points Are Scored
- After all bowls are played, the team with the closest bowl scores 1 point for each bowl closer than the opponent’s best.
- Example: If Team A has 3 bowls closer than Team B’s best, they score 3 points.
Types of Lawn Bowls Greens
Flat Green Bowls
- Standard for competitions (e.g., Australian Open).
- Smooth, level surface with minimal slope.
- Used in grass bowls and artificial greens.
Crown Green Bowls
- Features a raised center (crown), causing bowls to curve outward.
- Popular in the UK (especially crown bowls green clubs).
- Requires more skill due to unpredictable rolls.
Grass Bowls vs. Artificial Greens
| Grass Bowls | Artificial Greens |
|---|---|
| Natural, softer surface | Synthetic, faster play |
| Requires more maintenance | Low maintenance |
| Slower, more strategic | Consistent speed |
| Preferred by purists | Common in clubs |
Lawn Bowls Equipment Guide
Lawn Bowling Bowls (Balls)
The most crucial piece of lawn bowls equipment is the bowl itself. Key factors:
- Size – Ranges from 00 (smallest) to 7 (largest). Most adults use sizes 3-5.
- Weight – Typically 1.5–1.7kg (heavier bowls roll straighter).
- Material – Modern lawn bowls balls are made from composite materials (e.g., phenolic resin).
What Are Lawn Bowls Made Of?
Traditionally, bowls were wooden (lignum vitae), but today’s green bowls balls are high-tech composites for durability and performance. Brands like Henselite and Drakes Pride use advanced resins to ensure consistency.
Lawn Bowls Bags & Storage
- Single Bowl Bags – Lightweight, for casual players.
- Trolley Bags – Wheeled for easy transport (great for lawn bowls trolley bags).
- Backpack-Style – Comfortable for walking to the green.
Lawn Bowls Measuring Tools
- Lawn bowls measuring tape – Flexible, marked in millimeters for precise scoring.
- Caliper-style measurers – Used in competitions to determine the closest bowl.
Lawn Bowls Clothing & Attire
Lawn Bowls Shoes
- Flat, non-marking soles to protect the green.
- Mens & ladies lawn bowls shoes are lightweight and breathable.
- Brands like Aero and Thomas Taylor offer specialized footwear.
Lawn Bowls Hats & Caps
- Wide-brimmed hats for sun protection.
- Club-branded caps for team spirit.
Best Lawn Bowls Brands
Henselite Lawn Bowls
- Top Model: Henselite Dreamline XG (popular for its narrow bias).
- Known for durability and precision.
Drakes Pride Lawn Bowls
- Best for Beginners: Drakes Pride Professional (balanced bias).
- Trusted in UK and Australian clubs.
Thomas Taylor Bowls
- Taylor Ace – A favorite for wide bias players.
- Great for slower greens.
Aero Bowls
- Lightweight & high-performance bowls.
- Used by elite players in tournaments.
Lawn Bowls for Sale – Buying Guide
Buying Tips
- Try before you buy – Many lawn bowls shops offer test rolls.
- New vs. Used – Second-hand lawn bowls are great for beginners.
- Price Range – $100–$500 for new bowls; $50–$200 for used.
Used Lawn Bowls for Sale
- Benefits:
- Cheaper (great for beginners).
- Eco-friendly (reusing equipment).
- Where to Find:
- Gumtree (lawn bowls Gumtree listings).
- eBay (eBay lawn bowls for sale).
- Local clubs (members often sell old sets).
Where to Buy Lawn Bowls
- Lawn Bowls Shops Near Me – Search “lawn bowls shop near me” for local retailers.
- Online Stores:
- Bowls Australia (official supplier).
- Amazon, eBay, and specialty sites.
Lawn Bowls Clubs Near You
Joining a lawn bowls club is the best way to learn and socialize. Most offer:
- Free trial sessions.
- Coaching for beginners.
- Social events & competitions.
Search: “lawn bowls club near me” or “lawn bowls [your city]” (e.g., lawn bowls Sydney).
Popular Lawn Bowls Locations
Australia
- Sydney: Lawn bowls Sydney CBD (e.g., The Greens North Sydney).
- Melbourne: Lawn bowls Melbourne (e.g., St Kilda Bowls Club).
- Perth & Adelaide: Lawn bowls WA and SA lawn bowls clubs.
- Regional: Lawn bowls Bendigo, Central Coast lawn bowls.
New Zealand
- Wellington & Dunedin have vibrant lawn bowls NZ scenes.
Other Countries
- UK: Lawn bowls Ireland and England (home of crown green bowls).
- USA & Canada: Growing lawn bowls America communities.
Barefoot Bowls – Social Lawn Bowls
Barefoot bowls is a casual, no-shoes version of the game, perfect for:
- Birthday parties.
- Corporate events.
- First-timers.
Search: “barefoot bowls near me” (e.g., barefoot bowls Sydney).
Lawn Bowls Sets & Equipment Packages
Beginner lawn bowls sets include:
- 4 bowls (matched set).
- Jack & measuring tape.
- Carry bag.
Price: $200–$400 for a starter kit.
Lawn Bowls Images & Visual Guide
For a better understanding, check:
- Lawn bowls images (showing grip, stance, and bias).
- Lawn bowls pictures of greens and equipment.
Major Lawn Bowls Events
- Australian Open (prestigious tournament).
- Commonwealth Games (international competition).
- National Championships (country-specific).
Conclusion
Lawn bowls is a fun, strategic, and social sport enjoyed worldwide. Whether you’re looking for lawn bowls for sale, joining a lawn bowls club near you, or trying barefoot bowls, this guide covers everything you need.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is lawn bowls?
Lawn bowls is a precision outdoor bowling game where players roll biased balls toward a target (jack) on a grass or artificial green.
What are lawn bowls made of?
Modern lawn bowls balls are made from composite materials (phenolic resin), replacing traditional wood.
Where can I buy lawn bowls for sale near me?
Check local lawn bowls shops, Gumtree, eBay, or online retailers like Bowls Australia.
What shoes are used for lawn bowls?
Flat-soled, non-marking lawn bowls shoes (mens & ladies styles available).
Can beginners play lawn bowls?
Absolutely! Many clubs offer free trials and beginner-friendly lawn bowls sets.
