New to lawn bowls? Start here
What is lawn bowls?
Lawn bowls is played on a flat, closely cut lawn called a green. You roll large balls, called bowls, along the grass and try to stop them as close as you can to a small white target ball, the jack. It's easy on the body, friendly and social, and people of all ages play together.
The basics
- Jack
- The small white target ball. It's rolled out first to start each round.
- Bowls
- The bigger balls you roll. Each player has a set of matching bowls, usually 2 to 4 depending on the game.
- Bias
- Bowls aren't perfectly round. One side is weighted so the bowl curves as it slows down. Learning to aim wide and let it curve in is the heart of the game.
- Rink
- The strip of green your game is played on.
- Mat
- Where you stand when you bowl. Keep one foot on or over it as you deliver.
- End
- One round: the jack is rolled, everyone bowls all their bowls, then you score. The next end goes back the other way.
- Scoring
- After each end, whichever side has the bowl closest to the jack scores. They get one point (a "shot") for every bowl that's closer than the other side's best bowl. A game ends after a set number of ends, or when someone reaches a target score (for example 21 in singles).
- Formats
- Singles (1 vs 1), pairs (2 a side), triples (3) and fours, also called rinks (4).
Etiquette & what to wear
- Flat-soled shoes are a must. Smooth, heel-less soles protect the green. Many clubs lend shoes to beginners, so ask first. No heels or deep-tread sneakers.
- Wear comfortable clothes. Many clubs wear white or club colors for matches, but casual dress is usually fine for social bowling and lessons. Check with your club.
- Stand still and stay quiet behind the mat while someone is bowling. Don't walk across other rinks.
- Don't step down hard into the ditch or drop bowls onto the green.
- Shake hands and say "good bowling" at the start and end of a game. Sportsmanship is a big part of the sport.
How to start
- Find a club near you in our directory, or use the Bowls USA Club Locator.
- Call or email the club. Most clubs offer free lessons or open "try it" days, and lend bowls to beginners.
- Bring flat-soled shoes, water and sun protection. Expect to be bowling within your first hour.
- Enjoy it? Join the club. Membership usually includes Bowls USA membership and opens the door to social leagues and tournaments.