Business Details
Welcome to Great Torrington Bowling Club
Established in 1645 during the English Civil War, Great Torrington Bowling Club stands as the third oldest club of its kind in England. Nestled on Castle Hill within historic grounds, our club offers both lawn bowls and short mat bowls across two distinct seasons. From mid-April to September, members and visitors enjoy outdoor lawn bowls in Devon Section One, competing in regional leagues and county trophies. During winter months, we transition to indoor short mat bowls, hosting competitive teams in North Devon and North Cornwall leagues.Our facilities include a purpose-built clubhouse with modern amenities, while maintaining the charm of our 1846 castellated wall. We pride ourselves on welcoming both seasoned players and newcomers through dedicated introduction sessions, ensuring accessibility for all ages and abilities. With panoramic views over the Torridge valley, our club combines sporting excellence with social engagement, evidenced by our 375-year legacy of community involvement and county-level achievements.
Services
Lawn Bowls
Short Mat Bowls
Club Competitions
Visitor Welcome Days
Historical Tours
Highlights and features
- Established in 1645, we are England's third oldest bowls club with unmatched historical expertise
- Dual-season facilities offering both lawn bowls (April-September) and short mat bowls (October-March)
- Competitive success across multiple leagues including Devon County Trophy and North Devon Triple League
- Modern clubhouse with accessible facilities for members and visitors year-round
- Dedicated introduction sessions for new players of all ages and abilities
Associations and certifications
- Bowls England
- Bowls Devon
- Devon Short Mat Bowling Association
- England Short Mat Bowling Association
Services
Lawn Bowls
Our premier outdoor bowls season runs from mid-April to September on the historic Castle Hill green. Members participate in Devon Section One league matches and county competitions including the Foxlands Trophy and Top Club events. The maintained playing surface offers optimal conditions for both casual play and competitive matches against regional clubs from Devon and North Cornwall.
Short Mat Bowls
Winter season indoor bowls take place October-March on two dedicated short mats. We field six competitive teams across North Devon and North Cornwall evening and afternoon triples leagues. The venue provides ideal conditions for year-round play with structured practice sessions available daily and dedicated coaching support for skill development.
Club Competitions
We host comprehensive competitive programs for both lawn and short mat disciplines. Men's and ladies' teams compete in North Devon leagues, county trophies, and special events like the 86 Shield. Regular club competitions include mixed events, over-60s leagues, and our popular Bonus Ball format introduced in October 2025 for added engagement.
Visitor Welcome Days
New players and visiting teams receive expert guidance through our structured welcome program. Available every Monday (afternoon/evening) during short mat season and Monday evenings in summer, these sessions provide equipment hire, basic instruction, and opportunities to play with experienced members in a supportive environment.
Historical Tours
Explore our 375-year legacy through guided tours of the historic grounds. Discover the 1846 castellated wall, original gazebo changing room, and Crocker Bar's unique history. Archival displays include county award records dating to 1990 and photographs from our 2012 visit by Bowls England representatives, showcasing our enduring contribution to the sport.
Questions
What makes Great Great Torrington Bowling Club historically significant?
Founded in 1645 during the English Civil War, we are England's third oldest bowls club with continuous play on Castle Hill's historic grounds since that time.
When can I play lawn bowls versus short mat bowls?
Outdoor lawn bowls run April-September, with short mat bowls available October-March in our purpose-built indoor facility.
Are visitors allowed to play at the club?
Yes! We welcome visiting players every Monday (afternoon/evening) during short mat season and Monday evenings in summer for lawn bowls with expert guidance.
What competitions does the club participate in?
We compete in Devon County Trophy, Foxlands, Top Club, North Devon Triple League, 86 Shield, and over-60s leagues for both lawn and short mat disciplines.
How accessible is the club for new members?
Our structured introduction program helps all ages and abilities learn the game, with equipment hire and expert coaching available for beginners.
What facilities does the club offer?
Modern clubhouse with dedicated changing rooms, accessible toilets, Crocker Bar, and two short mat playing areas alongside our historic outdoor green.
Reviews (1)
Michael Collins
Aug 29, 2018
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I've recently filmed an interview there for Rebel Boy TV and they are a very friendly group. They're at a beautiful location and couldn't recommend them highly enough.
