Braid Bowling Club, nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Blackford Hill in Edinburgh, is known for its exceptional playing surface. The club's Green is widely regarded as one of the finest in the city. The bowling season at Braid runs from early April to late September.
Aside from casual games and the popular Monday and Friday “Hat Nights,” members can look forward to a diverse range of activities. The club hosts a variety of internal competitions, as well as external league matches and friendly games against other clubs. There is a vibrant and competitive atmosphere surrounding the club's events, ensuring that members always have an enjoyable experience.
Braid Bowling Club has a rich history that dates back to 1890 when the proprietors of the Braid Estate established the Braid Estate Recreation Ground. This facility included a bowling green, a tennis club, and their respective pavilions. The purpose was to provide a space where the feuars within the Braid Estate area could come together for leisure and enjoyment. The construction costs were covered by the feuars, and the clubs had the authority to admit non-feuars as members.
Initially, this number was capped at 70.
In 1892, at the club's inaugural meeting, attended by many members, Mr. William Cargill, the first President of the Club, proposed that Braid Bowling Club apply for admission to the Edinburgh and Leith Bowling Association. The motion was approved, and the green was officially opened for play on May 7, 1892.
To stay connected during the off-season, Braid Bowling Club organises various events and activities, including walks and talks, whist and bridge sessions, indoor bowls, the Annual Dinner and Prizegiving, a Burns Supper, and other social gatherings. These opportunities allow members to keep in touch and maintain their involvement in the club throughout the year.
Prospective members are encouraged to visit the membership section on the club's website. Here, they can find information about the benefits of playing bowls at Braid, as well as an application form. Additionally, the club's Facebook page offers a visually captivating pictorial record of the season's happenings, courtesy of Frances Martin.
Braid Bowling Club welcomes feedback from its members and website visitors. Suggestions for improvement or changes can be sent via email to webmaster@braidbc. Co. uk.
The club's website provides a comprehensive range of resources, including general club information, committee details, events calendar, news updates, petanque corner, picture gallery, rules and regulations, useful links, and more.
Braid Bowling Club prides itself on providing an inviting and inclusive environment for bowlers of all levels. Whether you are a seasoned Braid member or newly joining the club, the 2023 season and its array of offseason activities ensure that there is always something to look forward to.