About the Club
Nearly four decades of bowls in Gravesham
Istead Rise Bowls Club was founded in January 1986 by a small group of friends who wanted to bring the sport of bowls to the local community. In the years since, the club has grown into a warm, welcoming family of members who share a love of the game and a love of good company.
We've always been a sociable club at heart. Whether it's a friendly match, a league fixture, or simply a Tuesday afternoon practice, there's always a warm cup of tea and a friendly face waiting. Over the years we've welcomed members from all walks of life — seasoned players and complete beginners alike — and we're proud to be part of the fabric of the local community.
Indoor Season
When the clocks go back, we move indoors to the excellent facilities at Istead Rise Community Centre. The centre provides a high-quality indoor bowls carpet, comfortable changing facilities, and a warm environment to keep playing through the autumn and winter months.
Indoor bowls is played on a special carpet surface and follows very similar rules to outdoor bowls — so if you've played outdoors before, you'll feel right at home. And if you haven't played at all, our members are always on hand to help you get started.
We hold practice sessions twice a week throughout the indoor season. No booking is needed — just turn up and join in.
Outdoor Season
Come May, we pack away the indoor carpet and head outside to the beautiful outdoor green at Swanscombe Park. The green is maintained to an excellent standard, and we have full use of a clubhouse provided by Swanscombe Council — a comfortable base for matches and social occasions.
Outdoor bowls in the summer sunshine is one of life's great pleasures. There's something special about playing on natural grass, hearing the click of bowl on jack, and sharing a match with friends on a warm afternoon.
As with the indoor season, practice sessions run twice a week throughout the summer. All are welcome — no booking needed.
Practice Sessions — Twice a Week
We hold practice sessions twice a week throughout the year — once indoors in winter and once out on the green in summer. No booking is needed. Simply turn up at the start of the session and join in. Equipment is available to borrow if you're coming along for the first time.
Practice days and times: please contact us for the current schedule, or ask a member when you come along.
Annual Whitstable Trip
Every year we make our much-anticipated trip to the seaside at Whitstable. It's one of the highlights of the club calendar — a wonderful day out combining bowls, fresh air, and the chance to enjoy everything this charming Kent coastal town has to offer. A great day for members old and new, and always a talking point for months afterwards!
Thinking of joining us?
We'd love to see you at a practice session. No experience needed — just come along.
Find out how to join