LAWN BOWLING 101

Lawn Bowling 101

New to lawn bowling? You’re in the right place! Here's a quick overview of what the sport is all about.

What is Lawn Bowling?

Lawn bowling is a relaxed but competitive game where the goal is to roll slightly asymmetrical balls—called bowls — don't say balls because someone will roll their eyes - so they stop as close as possible to a smaller white target ball called the jack. It’s a game of skill, strategy, and finesse, enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

How It Works

• The Playing Area: Games are played on a flat, manicured green divided into parallel playing strips called rinks.

• The Objective: Each player or team takes turns rolling their bowls toward the jack. The bowl closest to the jack scores points.

• The Twist: Bowls are biased, meaning they curve as they roll—adding a layer of strategy and touch to every shot.

• Scoring: After all bowls are rolled, points are awarded for each bowl that is closer to the jack than the opponent’s closest bowl.

• Generally, a more Novice player will Lead while a more Veteran player will Skip (or go last). But that is also for you and your teammate to decide before the match.

•  You are considered a Novice for the first 3 years of your bowling career. So, if you join in 2025, you'll be considered a Novice until 2028. That doesn't mean you can't compete in or win any tournaments (which you will!), it's just the way it's recognized on a National and International level as a new bowler.

Game Formats

• Singles: One-on-one (You're on your own. Good luck and Good Bowls!)

• Pairs or Triples: Teams of 2 or 3 (Leads and Skips) or (Lead, Vice, Skip)

• Fours (Rinks): Teams of 4, each with a designated role (Lead, Second, Vice, Skip)

• Cut-throat: 3-player melee against each other. Every person for themselves. Sometimes scored 1-1-1 or 3-2-1 for the 3 bowls closest to the jack.

Why People Love It

Lawn bowling is easy to learn, can be endlessly challenging and strategic, but ultimately is great fun with a very supportive community behind you. It's social, low-impact, and a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're competitive or just want a relaxing way to spend time with friends, there's a place for you on the green.