Costs involved in playing bowls
Cost of playing bowls
Frequently Asked Questions
Membership
Q: Do I need to be a member of a club to play lawn bowls?
That depends on what you're up for! If you want to dive in and play regularly or join a league, then yes, a full membership is the way to go. But if you're just looking to have some fun with a casual game now and then, we can totally work with you without any long-term obligations. Easy peasy!
Q: What is the cost of membership?
At Gelli Park Bowling Club, our annual membership fee is just £30—what a bargain compared to most sports! And if you're brand new, your first year is only £20. There are a few little details to keep in mind, but it’s an awesome way to get started without breaking the bank.
Q: Why do you have a special rate for new members?
We get it, trying something new can freak you out, especially if it costs a lot. That discounted rate is there so you can try out lawn bowls without a huge financial commitment. It’s a chill way to see if it’s your thing (hint: you’ll probably love it!). Plus, it gives you time to sort out your gear when you’re ready.
Q: Are there any additional costs involved?
There are a few bits and bobs, but nothing too crazy. The main expense is getting your own set of bowls, which can be between £250 and £450 for a new set. But hey, you can always try out our club’s bowls first to find your perfect match. If you’re thinking of competing, you’ll need some gear like white or grey trousers, a white shirt, and a club shirt. And hey, there's zero pressure to buy everything at once—take your time!
Q: As a golfer, I pay per game even as a member. Is that how it works with lawn bowls?
Not really! For league games, there’s just a small fee—like £2 to £3 per game for green or match fees. Traveling for away games might add another couple of pounds for transport. All in all, it’s super affordable compared to loads of other sports.
Getting Started
Q: I’m unsure if I’ll enjoy it. Do I need to buy a set of bowls immediately?
No need to rush into buying! We've got some secondhand bowls that you can borrow for free—thanks to our lovely members. There’s usually a good range of sizes, so you can find one that feels just right. They might not be the latest and greatest, but they’re perfect for figuring out if lawn bowls is your jam.
Q: Should I invest in a modern set of bowls from the beginning?
Take your time on that one! Older-style bowls are often more beginner-friendly—they’re easier to control and pretty forgiving. The newer, narrow-bias bowls are great for precision but can be tricky, even for pros. Play around first, and then see if you wanna invest in something newer down the line.
Q: Aren’t all bowls the same?
Not at all! Just like every player has their own vibe, different bowls cater to different styles. As you get into the game, you’ll find out which bowls work best for you. It’s all part of the adventure—and honestly, that’s where the fun is.
Why Join Us?
Q: What’s so great about being a Full Member?
Oh, plenty! As a Full Member, you get unlimited access to all our club facilities (as long as they’re available). Want to practice whenever you feel like it? Go for it—no charge! Just keep in mind the greens might sometimes be booked for competitions or maintenance.
Q: Do I have to play in league matches? I’m not sure I’m up for that.
Nope, you don’t have to! That said, we’d love to see you give it a go once in a while. Playing competitively can be such a blast, especially when you’re celebrating a big win with your team. Lawn bowls is all about teamwork, and every player matters. It’s way more fun than you might think!
Q: But, seriously, I don’t think I’m good enough...
Oh, come on! Lawn bowls is for *everyone*. Doesn’t matter if you’re 12 or 90, total beginner or seasoned pro—there’s a place for you. Clubs have players at all levels, and everyone loves being part of the team. If you do decide to give league matches a try, we’ll make sure you’re in a team that suits your skill level. You might even surprise yourself and improve way faster than you imagined!
How Can You Sign Up?
It’s super simple! Just fill out an application form (you’ll find it on our website) or chat with one of our committee members. They’ll walk you through everything step by step. Once you’re in, you can be as involved as you like—it’s totally up to you.
Q: I’m a bit shy and don’t know anyone. What should I do?
No stress! We’ve got your back. If you’re new to bowling, we’ll pair you up with a ‘buddy’ to show you the ropes. Your buddy will help you figure out how things work, introduce you to other members, and make sure you get into the swing of things. Before long, you’ll feel like part of the family!