Lawn bowls is both a competitive and social sport. No matter your fitness level, age, or social background, you'll be able to get stuck into the sport. It's a great way to exercise and spend some time outdoors as well. If you've been looking for a new sport to try out, give bowls a shot. Here are just a few of the best lawn bowls clubs and greens in the city. Let's get rolling!
The Wanderers Bowling Club
The Wanderers Bowling Club is considered one of the top clubs in Joburg. Whether this boils down to their warm, welcoming atmosphere or their premium greens, the point is that you will find a home here. Bowls is about so much more than sport; it is about creating community and lifelong friendships. The Wanderers Bowling Club strives to make younger players feel right at home, too. The perception that lawn bowls is only for older people is broken down as soon as you step out onto the green here. Coaching can also be arranged for novice bowlers. You can find out more about how to join the club on their website.
Details: 21 North St, Illovo, Johannesburg.
Pirates Bowls Club
Pirates Bowls Club offers competitive and social bowls to bowlers of all ages. This 75-year old club is steeped in tradition, but is also one of the friendliest bowls clubs you'll find around. The club's greens have recently undergone major refurbishments and there are coaches on hand to assist beginners. The club also has a fantastic pub and restaurant where you can enjoy a round of drinks with friends after a game. Visit them for a social event or to join a competitive bowls league. Either way, you're sure to feel right at home at Pirates Bowls Club. Find out more about the club and how to become a member here.
Details: 4 Cruden Bay Rd, Greenside, Randburg.
Old Parks Bowls
The Old Parks Sports Club is the proud home of a thriving lawn bowls club. The Old Parks Bowls Club was established in 1962 with one green. In the early 1970s the Clubhouse and a second green were added. The club's two greens have since been kept in impeccable condition and are Johannesburg Bowls Association rated. The club hosts regular competitions, as well as social tournaments. Novice bowlers are invited to book a session with one of the club's coaches, or simply ask for some direction from a club veteran. Bowlers of all ages are welcome, so come along for a challenging (but friendly) end of bowls. You can find out more about the Old Parks Club here.
Details: 1 Garden Road, Off Jan Smuts Ave., Bordeaux, Randburg.
Bryanston Bowls Club
If you're looking to compete as a champion bowler, then Bryanston Bowls Club is the place for you. Many of South Africa's top international bowlers have called this club home. Join the ranks by becoming a member and by signing up to be part of a league team. Novice bowlers can practice their skills at a number of social games that take place throughout the week. The Bryanston Bowls Club offers coaching for new members, as well as the chance to socialise and make new friends. Their A-grade greens will help you master your delivery and ace those shots. Find out more about the club on their website.
Details: Payne Rd, Bryanston, Johannesburg.
Can you recommend any other top lawn bowls clubs in the city? Let us know about them in the comments below!
