Hawkhead Bowling Club, located at 8 Gartmore Road in Paisley, was established in 1921. Originally known as Hawkhead Recreation Club, the facility hosted a variety of sports until 1963 when it rebranded to focus specifically on lawn bowls, leading to the change in name. Since then, the club has experienced significant growth and now boasts two full-size greens and exceptional clubhouse amenities, including a lounge, large hall, and small function suite.
Hawkhead Bowling Club prides itself on being an equal opportunities club, ensuring that all full members, both ladies and gents, have equal rights within the organisation. The club is run by an Executive Committee, which oversees the general operations such as the facility, greens, finances, and membership. However, bowling matters are the responsibility of the individual bowling section committees. With three bowling sections Gents, Ladies, and a Junior Section established in 2007 the club caters to a wide range of bowlers.
The Gents Section is affiliated with Bowls Scotland, which hosts national competitions, as well as the Renfrewshire Bowling Association (RBA) for county-level competitions and the Paisley & District Bowling Association (P&DBA), which organises the local league and cup competitions. The Ladies Section is affiliated with the Scottish Women's Bowling Association (SWBA), while the Paisley Veterans Bowling Association (PVBA) oversees the majority of the Gents Seniors league and cup games.
While the primary focus of Hawkhead Bowling Club is lawn bowls, the organisation also holds numerous social events featuring top-class performers. The club's spacious hall can accommodate up to 120 people and often hosts private functions for members and their friends or relatives. Applications for hall usage are submitted through a club member and reviewed by the Executive Committee, although 18th birthday parties are not hosted.
In 2021, Hawkhead Bowling Club celebrated its Centenary Year. However, due to restrictions, the club's plans were postponed until 2022. Notably, a Flag Raising day took place on August 7th, where the new Centenary flag was unveiled. Members, including Honorary President Matt Paul, attended the event, followed by a mixed triples game.
The club's Facebook page features photos of the day.
As for membership, Hawkhead Bowling Club currently has approximately 80 Gents and nearly 40 Ladies as full playing members. Additionally, the club welcomes Associate members who utilise the clubhouse facilities and participate in social events. Prospective members interested in joining as either full or associate members can download and complete the application form from the club's website or email the Club Secretary directly.
The club expresses its sincere gratitude for the ongoing support of their sponsors, who make many of their internal competitions possible. Notably, the main sponsors are D Moodie & Co Ltd Funeral Directors and the Golden Charter Funeral Plans. Their continued partnership has been instrumental in the success of four competitions hosted by the club.
In summary, Hawkhead Bowling Club in Paisley, founded in 1921, offers a vibrant and inclusive environment for lawn bowls enthusiasts. With exceptional facilities, a dynamic social calendar, and membership opportunities for both playing and associate members, the club is a welcoming and thriving community for individuals of all ages and skill levels.
