Can anyone play?
Short mat bowls is open to everyone. Hardwick Short Mat Bowls Club will welcome you even if have never played or are an experienced player (or anywhere in between).
When can I play?
At any of the roll-up sessions. These are at 7.00pm on Thursdays (when there is not a match) in the Hardwick Village Hall. The dates of roll-ups are given on the home page, there is also a map to help you find the hall.
How much does it cost?
After the first couple of sessions, it is £3 per night
Is special clothing or equipment needed?
To start all you need is a pair of flat bottomed/soled shoes. Later you will need a pair of bowls shoes. To play in matches the 'uniform' is white top and grey bottoms.
Do I need to know how to play?
No! You will be given tuition and encouraged to join in roll-ups. These are a non-competitive, very social occasions and are a chance to improve your skills.
Are there matches against other Clubs?
Hardwick Short Mat Bowls Club is a member of both the Winter and Summer Buckinghamshire Single Mat Leagues. As soon as you feel confident, you will be invited to participate. Match dates can be found on the 'Matches & Roll-up page.
Are all mats the same?
Just like the outdoor game of lawn bowls, the indoor short mats vary both with location and time. Until recently Hardwick was known for having a very "slow" mat. In June a 'new' mat was acquired which is somewhat faster. Though it is still not the fastest mat in Buckinghamshire! Adapting to different mats (quickly if you want to win shots) is part of the challenge. On some mats the woods/bowls curve is much more, while on others the path is straighter - this seems to vary during the evening with temperature and humidity.
How do I get more information?
On the home page there is a telephone number and an email address, or, use the contact form
We look forward to welcoming you in the near future