Short Mat Bowls

This sport is particularly popular for small communities as it can be played in village halls, schools, sports and social clubs and even on North Sea oil rigs.

Apparently the Short Mat Bowls game was first introduced to the UK in Wales by two South Africans who came to work in the area. Sometime later, they moved to Northern Ireland and took the new game with them. Rules and conditions of play were drawn up and the game was eventually introduced to England where it had a pretty slow start until its real potential was realised.

The English Short Mat Bowling Association (ESMBA) was formed in 1984, and is now the governing body of the sport in England. The latest figures from the ESMBA put membership at 25211 bowlers in 928 clubs. We're pleased to say that a number of these have played here at TLH in our annual Spring and Autumn Short Mat Festivals, and in our other Short Mat breaks.

TLH Short Mat Bowls Breaks

Short mat bowlers are well catered for here at TLH. Our indoor arena can take 16 mats or we have a choice of ballrooms where you can enjoy a 'roll up'. There are tournaments and festivals all year round to take part in.

• Popular Spring and Autumn Festivals with cash prizes
• Social and friendly bowling amongst yourselves or we can arrange fixtures with local groups
• Opportunities for 'play while you stay'
• Touring short mat clubs can play on our indoor arena, or we can arrange fixtures with any of 12 friendly local clubs. Please contact 01803 400600 for details