Lawn Bowls

Historians believe that the game of bowls might have developed from Ancient Egypt. What’s clearer, though, is that various forms of of the game now exist in different guises across the world e.g. Bocce (Italian), Bolle (Danish), and Boules (French).

Lawn Bowls is usually played straight up and down a manicured lawn called a 'rink'. Players roll bowls called 'woods' (although these days most are made from resin) at a smaller white ball called a 'Jack'. Simply, the aim of the game is to place bowls as close to the 'Jack' as possible, thereby outscoring your opponent(s).

Each bowl is less rounded on one side, which results in it being "biased" in one direction due to extra weight on one side - this means that the bowl follows a slightly curved path as it rolls, which increases as it comes to a halt.

The game can be played in 'Singles' (each player has four bowls), 'Pairs' (four players in two teams, each player having four bowls), 'Triples' (three players with three bowls each), and 'Fours' (four players two bowls each).

Bowls is particularly popular amongst older people, although there are a lot of younger players too. Health benefits include improved fitness and co-ordination, while the fantastic social side of the game can enhance confidence and self-esteem.