Join Istead Rise Bowls Club
We'd love to have you
Whether you've never picked up a bowl in your life or you're an experienced player looking for a friendly new club, you are very welcome at Istead Rise Bowls Club.
Bowls is one of the most sociable sports there is — you don't need to be fast, strong, or particularly fit. It's a game of skill, patience, and good company, and we think it's wonderful. We'd love to share it with you.
Our members range in age and experience, and our friendly atmosphere means you'll feel at home from the very first visit.
How to get started
It really is this simple.
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Come along to a practice session
We hold practice sessions twice a week throughout the year — indoors in winter, outdoors in summer. There's no need to book or call ahead. Just turn up at the start of a session and introduce yourself. Someone will make you very welcome.
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Meet the members
Our members are a friendly bunch and love meeting new faces. We'll introduce you around, show you how things work, and make sure you have a cup of tea in hand before you know it. We'll lend you any equipment you need for your first few visits — no need to buy anything yet.
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No experience necessary — we'll teach you everything
Bowls is easy to learn and endlessly enjoyable. One of our experienced members will be happy to walk you through the basics — how to hold a bowl, how to deliver it, and what the rules of the game are. Most people are playing along within their very first session.
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Decide you'd like to join
If you enjoy yourself — and we're fairly confident you will — you can join the club as a full member. Our membership fees are very reasonable and cover both the indoor and outdoor seasons. Ask a member or contact us by email for the current membership rate.
Practice Sessions
Practice sessions are held twice a week throughout the year. No booking is needed — just turn up at the venue at the start of the session and you'll be made very welcome.
For the current practice days and times, please send us a message or ask any member. We'll be happy to let you know when the next session is.
What you'll need
There's very little you need to bring for your first visit. Here's a quick guide:
- Flat-soled shoes — any flat-soled, smooth-bottomed shoe is fine to start with. Dedicated bowls shoes are available to borrow from the club if needed.
- Comfortable clothing — no special outfit is required when you're just starting out. As you become a regular member you'll want to wear whites for matches, but there's absolutely no rush.
- Bowls — you don't need your own set. The club has bowls available to borrow for new members and visitors.
- A smile! — that's really all you need. We'll take care of the rest.
ⓘ Good to know
Bowls is a sport for everyone. It's gentle on the joints, requires no special fitness, and is played at a relaxed pace. Many of our members came to bowls later in life and have found it one of the most enjoyable things they've ever done.
Ready to come along?
Drop us a message and we'll let you know when the next practice session is. We look forward to hearing from you.
Send us a message Or email us directly: isteadrisebowlsclub@gmail.com