When talking about bowls. One has to consider both indoor bowls and lawn bowls. At Taunton Deane we are lucky to have facilities for both forms and some members play both forms of the game, while others play one or the other.
The outdoor greens close during the winter months, and most members then come inside and play on the indoor ‘greens’ which is actually a carpet.
Although the objective of both games is identical—getting your bowl closer to the jack than your opponent’s—the environment, surface, and playing conditions create meaningful differences between the two forms of the sport.
The indoor rinks are usually noticeably faster than the outdoor greens, and most players feel the difference as soon as they deliver their first bowl inside, so when players come in from outside they often find it difficult to get their length right.
1. Playing Surface
Lawn Bowls (Outdoor)
- Usually played on natural grass
- The surface can vary day‑to‑day depending on maintenance and weather
- Greens may be fast, slow, uneven, or bumpy, adding challenge.
Indoor Bowls
- Played on a precision‑made carpet stretched over a flat base
- Surfaces are mostly consistent, smooth, and fast
- Designed for predictability and consistent pace
- The carpet is stretched periodically and this can take a bit of getting used to.
2. Environmental Factors
Outdoor Bowls
- Conditions are influenced by wind, rain, and sun
- Players must continually adapt to changing elements.
Indoor Bowls
- Played in a controlled environment with no wind, rain, or temperature variation
- Lighting is consistent, and performance relies more on skill than adaptation.
Whichever form of bowls you decide to enjoy, there are many benefits to playing this wonderful game. You will find that bowls is a sport that blends strategy, precision, sociability, and accessibility into a single, rewarding experience.
Whether you’re seeking a new hobby, a competitive outlet, or a way to stay active without high physical impact, bowls offers something for everyone. Here’s why more people are discovering, or rediscovering, this timeless game.
A Sport for All Ages and Abilities
One of the greatest strengths of bowls is its inclusivity. People of all ages — from teens to older adults — can play together on equal terms. The physical demands are modest, making it suitable even for those with reduced mobility. At the same time, the sport rewards consistency, control, and decision-making, which means skill development is always possible regardless of age or experience.
Low Impact, Big Benefits
Lawn bowls provides a gentle but effective level of physical activity. The movements involved are bending, walking, rolling, and promote:
- Improved balance and coordination
- Strengthening of leg and core muscles
- Low-impact cardiovascular activity
- Increased flexibility.
It’s an excellent way to stay active without placing strain on joints, making it ideal for maintaining long-term fitness safely.
A Strategic Challenge
Although simple to learn, bowls is endlessly rich in tactics. Each end requires you to assess distance, weight, bias, rink conditions, and your opponent’s strategy. The game engages both body and mind, helping build concentration, forward planning, patience, and problem-solving skills.
A Sociable, Welcoming Community
Bowls clubs are renowned for their friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned player, you’ll find:
- Supportive coaching
- A sense of belonging
- Opportunities for social events
- Intergenerational friendships.
It’s as much a social activity as a sport, helping combat isolation and fostering community spirit. You can play casually, join leagues, or enter tournaments — your journey is entirely your own.
If you are new to bowls, or want to improve your game, please look at the Beginners Guide, the Bowls Glossary, or the Etiquette of Bowls. You can also find out about Joining TDBC and look at the Schedule of Fees.