Complete beginner guide
New to bowls?
Everything you need to know before your first visit.
Free Sunday taster sessions, 10:30am to 12pm
Just turn up. We provide everything including coaching.
Bowls in 60 seconds
Lawn bowls is a simple outdoor game played on a flat green. You roll slightly curved bowls towards a small white ball called the jack. The team with bowls nearest the jack scores. Games are relaxed, sociable, and easy to pick up in one session. You do not need any experience. We will show you everything step by step.
Why try bowls
A sport for everyone
Social and friendly
Meet new people and make lasting friendships. Our members are welcoming and supportive. Many people come on their own the first time.
Gentle exercise
Low impact but keeps you active. Walking, bending, and focus at your own pace. Suitable for all fitness levels and ages.
Easy to learn
You can enjoy a game within minutes of picking up a bowl. The basics are simple, but there is always more to master if you want.
How it works
Your first visit
1
Just turn up
Come to a Sunday taster session at 10:30am. No booking required. Wear flat-soled shoes. We provide everything else.
2
Get coached
Our qualified coaches will show you the basics. You will be rolling bowls and enjoying yourself within minutes.
3
Decide later
No pressure to join. Come back to as many taster sessions as you like. When you are ready, membership is affordable.
Families welcome
“The kids spotted people playing as we walked past and wanted to know what it was. We booked a taster session, all had a go, and that was it, we’re all hooked. Sunday mornings at the club have become part of our routine. The members have been brilliant with the kids, really patient, and it’s lovely to be part of something that isn’t just another after-school club.”
Steve & family
What to bring
We provide everything
You do not need to buy anything to try bowls. We provide all the bowls and equipment. Just bring yourself.
Please wear:
- Flat-soled shoes — trainers are usually fine if they are flat and clean
- Comfortable clothing — something you can move and bend in
- Weather layers — a jumper or light jacket if it looks cool
Learn more
Understanding the game
How a game works
A game is split into “ends”, which are like rounds. At the start of each end, one team rolls the small white ball (called the jack) to the far end of the rink. Players then take turns rolling their bowls towards the jack. When everyone has bowled, the team with the closest bowl to the jack scores. They may score extra points for each of their bowls that is closer than the opponents’ nearest bowl. The mat and jack then move to the other end and a new end begins.
Why bowls curve
Bowls are not perfectly round. One side is heavier than the other, which is called the bias. This makes the bowl curve as it slows down. The skill is in judging how much curve to allow. It takes a few goes to get used to, but that is what makes the game interesting.
Team positions explained
In team games, each player has a role. The lead bowls first and sets up the head. The second supports and may play more attacking or defensive shots. The third helps the skip judge distances and keeps the score. The skip is the team captain, calling the shots and bowling last. As a beginner, you will usually start as lead, which is the simplest position.
Basic etiquette
Bowls etiquette is mainly about keeping things safe and enjoyable for everyone. Stay still and quiet when someone is bowling. Do not walk on other people’s rinks. Never drop bowls onto the green. Players usually shake hands at the start and end of a game. You do not need to know all this on day one. We will explain the customs as you go.
Watch: Bowls etiquette explained
Social vs competitive bowls
You can simply enjoy casual games, or you can work towards playing in more competitive fixtures if you wish. Social sessions are relaxed and ideal for beginners. League matches follow Bowls England regulations and involve structured teams. You do not have to play in leagues if you join. Many members enjoy social bowls only.
Health and wellbeing benefits
Bowls involves walking, bending, and controlled movement, which can gently support balance and coordination over time. It is usually classed as a light to moderate activity, so it may suit people who prefer something steadier than running or high-impact sports. Regular social contact and shared activities can also support a sense of belonging. If you have health concerns, check with your GP before starting any new activity.
Watch: Health benefits of bowls
Families and juniors
Under 18s can take part in our Sunday sessions on a casual enjoyment basis. These tasters are about having fun and learning the basics, rather than formal league play. Under 16s must have a supervising parent or guardian present. We will help with equipment and keep things light and engaging. If you are bringing juniors, please mention this when you contact us.
Common terms you will hear
Jack — the small white target ball.
End — one round of play, like an inning.
Head — the group of bowls around the jack.
Bias — the weighted side that makes the bowl curve.
Mat — the small mat you stand on to bowl.
Rink — the strip of green you play on.
Shot — the bowl closest to the jack, or a point scored.
Wood — another word for a bowl.
Frequently asked questions
No booking is required. Just turn up on Sunday at 10:30am. However, if you would like us to look out for you, send us a message and we will confirm the session is running.
Yes. Many people come to their first session on their own. We will greet you by name and introduce you to others. You will not be left standing on the edge.
You do not need to be very fit. If you can walk steadily on grass and bend a little to roll a bowl, you can usually take part. We will help you at your own pace.
There is no upper age limit. Our members range from young adults to people in their 90s. Under 18s are welcome at Sunday tasters with a parent or guardian if under 16.
About 90 minutes, from 10:30am to 12pm. This includes a welcome, coaching, short games, and time to ask questions.
We play in most weather, but sessions may be cancelled in heavy rain or unsafe conditions. If you have messaged us beforehand, we will let you know. Our all-weather green drains quickly, so light rain is usually fine.
No. There is no pressure to join. Come back to as many taster sessions as you like before deciding. When you are ready, we will explain the membership options clearly.
For detailed rules and competition formats, visit Bowls England. But you do not need to know the rules before your first visit. We will teach you everything.
Ready to give it a try?
Free taster sessions every Sunday, 10:30am to 12pm. No booking needed.
The Drive Bowling Club
The Drive, Hove BN3 3PN
Five minutes walk from Hove Station