Bowling News
It is that time of year again when some people go on holiday and send me photographs of the bowling greens they have visited all over the world. It is an annual series on the website that has revealed some very interesting stories and scenic photographs. I am grateful to Hazel Rangeley for the latest addition which comes from her trip to Lewes in Sussex and Hazel picks up the story. Send me photos of your holiday greens
One for the History Buffs
Here are some photographs of a very historic bowling green. The bowling green can be found just around the back of the castle in the county town of Lewes, East Sussex.
As you will see from the plaque the green dates back to 1640 and is one of the oldest in England, and home of the Bowling Green Society founded 4th May 1753.
The bowling green pavilion (the white building in the photo) is late 18C and is a grade II listed timber framed building. I wonder how many more pavilions meet this criterion and are there any in this area?
Having seen players on the green previously (unfortunately there weren't any players on the green when the photos were taken this year) it looked like they were playing a form of crown green bowling. The photos don’t really show the huge size or the undulations in the green, needless to say it would be a challenge to any bowler.
Another interesting sight was the carrying of a measuring stick, about 4 foot long in its natural state. It looked very crude not at all like the straws used at the Griffin, I guess they play a less competitive game but who knows.
Anyway if you are in that neck of the woods Lewes is a delight. The castle is brilliant and you might even see some very odd bowling just up the cobbled street from the castle.
Hazel Rangeley
July 2021
Click on any image to enlarge
Thanks hazel, nice to read bowling of the past ☺️