Facility & Green Overview
About Bainfield Bowling Club
Located in West Edinburgh near Gorgie and Slateford, Bainfield Bowling Club is one of the few clubs in the Lothian region offering both outdoor summer grass greens and a dedicated 8-rink indoor bowling stadium. This makes it an ideal hub for bowlers looking to play through the Scottish winter as well as newcomers attending taster sessions.
Beginner & Visitor Access Guide
Thinking of taking up lawn bowls or organising a social roll-up? Here is what you need to know about access and facilities at Bainfield Bowling Club:
Beginner Coaching & Tasters
WelcomedBeginner roll-ups and introductory coaching tasters are typically welcomed. Most clubs run spring/summer open days for new bowlers.
Loan Bowls Available
AvailableClub loan bowls are available on-site so you do not need to buy equipment before having a go.
Barefoot & Social Bowls
HostedSocial barefoot bowls, community roll-ups, and casual sessions are hosted at this venue.
Clubhouse & Bar
Licensed BarLicensed clubhouse bar, lounge facilities, and event or function room hire available.
Best Bowls & Equipment for Bainfield Bowling Club
Bowling green conditions directly affect your line and delivery. Based on Bainfield Bowling Club's playing surfaces and location, here are the optimal models and setup:
Indoor Carpet Surfaces (Fast & True)
Indoor carpet runs fast and true with zero wind or rain. Narrow-to-mid bias bowls allow you to stay tighter to the jack and hold tighter delivery lines on laser-straight carpet rinks without crossing into adjacent rinks.
Grass Greens (10–13 Second Pace)
UK and Scottish outdoor grass greens are subject to moisture and autumn dew. A dependable, mid-bias bowl provides the predictable curve and arc needed to navigate grass runs smoothly.
Bowls Shoes & Grip Sizing
Proper flat-soled bowls shoes protect greens and deliver dependable traction during your delivery step. Selecting the correct bowl size also prevents finger fatigue and wrist slipping.
Nearby Bowls Clubs in Edinburgh
Comparing local clubs? Explore other bowling clubs across Edinburgh:
Ardmillan Bowling Club
Ardmillan / Gorgie
Frequently Asked Questions
Can beginners play at Bainfield Bowling Club?
Yes! Most lawn bowls clubs welcome beginners and newcomers. Clubs regularly run introductory roll-ups, taster sessions, and open days where experienced members and coaches guide you through the basics of delivery, line, and weight.
Do I need my own bowls to play at Bainfield Bowling Club?
In most cases, no. Clubs maintain sets of club loan bowls across various sizes (sizes 0 to 4) that new visitors can use during roll-ups or coaching sessions. We recommend trying several sizes at the club before buying your own set.
What shoes and dress code are required at Bainfield Bowling Club?
The most essential requirement is completely flat-soled shoes (trainers with smooth soles, or specialized bowls shoes) to avoid damaging the playing surface. For casual roll-ups, neat casual clothing is standard, while club matches, county and national competitions require club apparel or whites.