Est. 1905
About The Drive
120 years of lawn bowls in the heart of Hove
Our history
120 years of bowling in Hove
The Club was founded in 1905 and was originally known as the Sussex County Bowling Club. On the formation of the Sussex County Bowling Association in 1917, a change of title became necessary to avoid confusion, and the Club was renamed The Drive Bowling Green, after the road outside. In 1934, the name was changed to The Drive Bowling Club, its present name.
The green was at first rented from the Willett Estate, and subsequently the Club Members bought the land, which was conveyed to the Club in June 1925. The green was re-laid in 1931, and in 1972 a first floor extension was constructed over the old clubhouse.
The green
All-weather, all year round
The Club was the first in Sussex to lay down a green of Cumberland turf. It has a picturesque and secluded setting and is sheltered from the strongest winds.
In 2007, because the grass green had deteriorated, it was decided to install an all-weather green with financial help from members. This has proved to be very successful and popular. At that time, it was the only all-weather bowling green in the Brighton area, and it means our members can play 365 days a year.
Milestones
Key moments in our history
1905
Club founded as Sussex County Bowling Club
1925
Members purchase the land outright
1998
Ladies welcomed as full playing members
2007
All-weather green installed
2017
Club becomes fully mixed gender
2020
Clubhouse fully refurbished
2025
Celebrating 120 years
Our badge
The story behind our crest
The Badge of The Drive Bowling Club is almost identical to the Hove Borough coat of arms. It shows a Saint Andrew’s Cross in the top left hand corner, which represents Hove. Two pairs of leg irons in the top right hand corner allude to Saint Leonard, to whom the Parish Church of Aldrington is dedicated.
There are three gold martlets at the base with a dark blue background. The martlet, a heraldic martin or swallow, represents Sussex.
What we offer
More than just a bowling club
Year-round play
Our all-weather green means no seasonal closures. Bowl whenever you like, 365 days a year, weather permitting.
Social and competitive
Enjoy casual roll-ups with friends or compete in local leagues. We cater for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced players.
Welcoming clubhouse
Refurbished in 2020, our clubhouse has a licensed bar, comfortable seating, and changing facilities. The social side is just as important as the sport.
Ready to be part of our story?
Join a club with 120 years of tradition and a welcoming community.