Lawn Bowling Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules Every Bowler Should Know

Why Etiquette Matters in Lawn Bowling

Lawn bowling is one of the few sports where opponents shake hands before and after every match. The culture of the green is built on mutual respect, fair play, and a shared love of the game. Understanding etiquette is not about being stuffy -- it is about showing respect for your fellow bowlers, the green, and the traditions that have sustained the sport for centuries.

Whether you are stepping onto a green for the first time or joining a new club, knowing these conventions will help you feel confident and welcome.

Before the Game

Dress Code

Most clubs have a dress code, and it varies by country and formality:

• Formal competitions: All-white clothing is traditional in many countries, especially Australia and the UK. Some US clubs are more relaxed.
• Club days and social games: Smart casual is usually fine. Check with your club.
• Flat-soled shoes are mandatory. Heels, treaded soles, and bare feet are never permitted on the green. The playing surface is delicate and easily damaged.
• Hats and sun protection are encouraged -- matches can last 2-3 hours in the sun.

Arriving at the Green

• Arrive on time. Being late holds up the entire rink. Aim to arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled start.
• Sign in at the clubhouse or scoreboard before play begins.
• Warm up on a designated rink if available. Do not practice on a rink that is set up for a match.

On the Green

Stepping On and Off

• Only step on the green with approved flat-soled shoes. Never step on with street shoes, even briefly.
• Use the mat or step to get on and off the green. Walking across the banks and ditches damages the edge of the green.

While Play Is in Progress

• Stand still and stay quiet while a bowler is on the mat delivering. Movement and noise in the bowler's line of sight are distracting and disrespectful.
• Stay behind the mat or behind the head. Do not stand at the side of the rink in the bowler's peripheral vision.
• Do not walk across another rink while play is in progress. Wait for a pause, then cross quickly.
• Keep your shadow off the jack and head. On sunny days, be aware of where your shadow falls.

Possession of the Rink

• The team whose bowl is being delivered has possession of the rink. The opposing team must stand behind the mat or behind the head, remaining still and quiet.
• After delivering your bowl, step off the mat and stand to one side so the next bowler has clear access.

Acknowledging Good Shots

• Acknowledge good shots by your opponents with a nod, "good bowl," or a tap of the hand. This is one of the sport's finest traditions.
• Do not celebrate excessively when your opponent makes a bad shot. Keep your reactions measured and sporting.

Scoring and Measuring

• Do not touch any bowls until the result of the end has been agreed or measured. Moving a bowl prematurely can void the end.
• The thirds (vice-skips) are responsible for agreeing the score at the end of each end. If it is too close to call, use a measure.
• Accept the measure result gracefully. If you disagree, ask for an umpire. Do not argue with your opponent.
• Mark the scoreboard promptly after each end.

After the Game

Shaking Hands

• Shake hands with every player on both teams at the end of the match. This is not optional -- it is a core tradition of the sport.
• Thank the greenkeeper if they are present. The quality of the green depends on their hard work.

Socializing

• Stay for a drink (or a cup of tea) after the match if you can. The post-game social is an important part of bowling culture.
• Buy your opponent a drink if you won, especially in social games. This tradition varies by club but is common in many countries.

Leaving the Green

• Return any borrowed equipment to its proper place.
• Report any damage to the green or equipment to the greenkeeper or club secretary.

Common Mistakes New Bowlers Make

1. 1Wearing the wrong shoes -- this is the number one etiquette error. Always bring flat-soled shoes.
2. 2Standing in the bowler's line of sight -- stay behind the mat or behind the head.
3. 3Talking during delivery -- silence while someone is bowling is non-negotiable.
4. 4Touching bowls before the end is agreed -- wait until the thirds have decided the count.
5. 5Not shaking hands -- always shake hands before and after the match, win or lose.

Etiquette by Country

Etiquette norms vary slightly around the world:

The Golden Rule

When in doubt, follow this simple principle: treat others as you would like to be treated on the green. Be patient with beginners, generous with praise, and graceful in both victory and defeat. The green is a place of fellowship, competition, and joy -- etiquette ensures it stays that way.

Ready to find a club and put these tips into practice? Use our club finder to locate a lawn bowling club near you, or read up on the rules of the game before your first visit.