BOWLING
Discover a Hidden Gem Right in the Heart of the Ribble Valley
Waddington Village Club has been a beloved part of the community for decades – a friendly hub where locals from Waddington and across the Ribble Valley come together. From BBQs and beer festivals to village fairs, duck races, and scarecrow events, it’s always been a place for people to gather, laugh, and celebrate.
But tucked away behind a wooden fence, just off Waddow Grove, lies one of the club’s best-kept secrets…
THE GREEN
The Bowling Green – Our Hidden Crown Jewel
Yes – we really do have a bowling green! It’s a Crown Green, set quietly behind the club, and it’s one of the finest in Lancashire. Perfectly maintained and in excellent condition, the green is large, smooth, and free from the awkward dips and bumps you sometimes find elsewhere. If you didn't know it was there, you might miss it – but trust us, it’s worth finding.
Back in the late 1950s and early ’60s, when the club was extended and Waddow Grove was built, the green was redesigned – and today’s bowlers still benefit from the smart thinking of those earlier decades.
ABOUT THE CLUB
The Bowling Section is a welcoming, relaxed community. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned player, everyone gets the chance to bowl at their own level.
We currently support 5 or 6 teams across local leagues, with matches running from mid-April to early September. Most games take place in the evenings, while our Veterans’ teams play on weekday afternoons (Mon, Tue & Wed).
But beyond competition, it’s really about enjoyment, exercise, and friendship. Bowls is a wonderfully social game that keeps your body and mind active – all with a gentle pace that suits everyone.
MYTHS
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Bowling is just for older people? Nope! It’s for everyone. Young, old, or in-between – bowls is fun, competitive, and a great way to meet new people.
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It’s too long and slow? Not at all. Games typically last 45–60 minutes. And there’s a new, faster format too – BowlsBash, bowls' answer to T20 cricket: shorter, more fun, and great for newcomers.
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Is it difficult to get into? Not at Waddington. We’ve got spare sets of bowls, friendly members who’ll show you the ropes, and plenty of chances to just turn up and try it out.
Here’s how a standard game works:
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You roll a small white ball (the jack) at least 22 yards.
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Then you try to bowl your two larger bowls as close to the jack as possible.
Getting Involved
Low Cost, High Fun – How to Join
Joining Waddington Bowling Club is not only easy – it’s one of the best-value memberships in the area. Here’s what it costs:
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£10 per year to join the Waddington Village Club
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£2 extra to join the Bowling Section
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£1.50–£2.00 per match (which includes a drink & biscuits with the opposition!)
And as a bonus, club members enjoy discounted drinks at the bar year-round with their membership card.
We’re Looking for New Members – Could That Be You?
We’d love to welcome new faces for 2025 and beyond. Whether you're curious about the game, looking for a new hobby, or just want to meet some friendly people, this is your chance.
To play competitively, bowlers are registered with the North Lancs & Fylde Bowling Association – we handle all of that for you. It means you’re eligible to play in matches across East Lancashire and the Fylde region.
Come Try it Out – No Pressure, Just Fun
We’ve already hosted one open day this year – and more are coming! Join us for one of our relaxed trial sessions, where you can meet the team, have a go, and get a feel for the game.
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We’ll provide the bowls – you just need to turn up and give it a go!
