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Bowls Shop

Bowls Equipment

History of the game

It is believed that the game of lawn bowls originated from the Egyptians and since then many famous names have been associated with the game, including King Henry VIII and Sir Francis Drake. Sir Francis Drake is said to have wanted to complete his game of lawn bowls before setting sail against the Spanish Armada. The game of lawn bowls he was said to have lost where as the battle he won – but this is hearsay of course!

Lawn bowls is a popular game in England and the rest of the United Kingdom (UK) Australia, Canada, New Zealand and other commonwealth countries. In England, Southampton is the oldest lawn bowls green and games have been documented as far back as the 13th century. The south of England is still the region where lawn bowls is most popular. The English Bowling Association was formed in 1903, which led to regulations for the sport of lawn bowls.