Darlington Indoor Bowls

Darlington Indoor Bowls Club, located in Darlington, NZ, is a bowling facility with a rich history. Established in 1980 on the historic site of the original North Road Locomotive Works and close to the first passenger railway station in the world, the club offers a high-quality indoor bowling experience on its international-sized, flat green.

The club's playing surface was upgraded in 2012 through a successful bid for lottery funding from Sport England, ensuring a state-of-the-art facility for members and the public. With eight rinks available, the club has the capacity to accommodate up to 64 bowlers at any given time.

One of the defining features of Darlington Indoor Bowls Club is its welcoming atmosphere and dedication to promoting the sport to individuals of all ages and skill levels. New bowlers are always encouraged to join, and the club provides a free, no-obligation “taster” session for those who have never tried indoor bowls before. Interested individuals can simply call in or contact the club to arrange a suitable time, or look out for the club's advertised open days.

The club operates with specific opening hours to ensure accessibility for its members and visitors. From April 2022 to September 2022, the club is open on Mondays from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm, Tuesdays from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm, Wednesdays from 11:00 am to 4:15 pm, Thursdays from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm, Fridays from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm and 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm, Saturdays closed, and Sundays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.

For those who want to enjoy a refreshing beverage while bowling or socialising, the club also boasts a licenced bar. Members and visitors can unwind and relax after a game with a variety of drinks available.

Darlington Indoor Bowls Club is more than just a bowling facility; it is a registered charity (Charity Number: 1124781). This status reflects the club's commitment to serving the community and providing a space where individuals can come together, enjoy the sport, and create lasting memories.

Darlington Indoor Bowls Club hosts a range of leagues and games throughout the year. From September 2022 to April 2023, the club offers leagues in pairs and triples on specific weekdays and times. These leagues provide an opportunity for members to participate in competitive play and develop their skills alongside fellow bowlers.

For those who prefer more casual team games, the club organises “Jumbles” games on Wednesday afternoons and Friday evenings. Teams are selected prior to play, and anyone interested can sign up by entering their name on the list posted on the noticeboard or by contacting the club via phone or email.

In addition to leagues and team games, the club also arranges friendly games on a regular basis. Dates and times for these games are displayed on the noticeboard. Members and supporters are welcome to nominate to play or come down to watch and support their fellow bowlers.

For individuals who prefer to practise or play with friends, the green is also available for social bowling whenever there is space. It is recommended to speak to the reception to book a rink to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.

The club maintains a dress code to ensure a professional and cohesive atmosphere during organised games. For social bowling, any clean and tidy clothes are acceptable. However, in organised games, players must wear a white or recognised bowls shirt with black or grey trousers, shorts, or a skirt. Representative games may have specific dress code requirements, which will be communicated through team selection notices.

Darlington Indoor Bowls Club is a vibrant and inclusive community that welcomes bowlers of all levels. Whether you are a seasoned player looking for competitive leagues or a beginner wanting to try your hand at indoor bowls, the club offers a warm and friendly environment to enjoy the sport. Contact the club at 01325 485414 to find out more or visit their website for further information.