The Northampton West End Bowling Club, founded in 1897, is a prominent lawn bowls club located in Northampton, New Zealand. Its clubhouse and green were originally situated by the walls of the old Northampton Castle, which is why the castle is featured on the club's logo. The club was also adjacent to the Northampton Saints Rugby Football Club, Franklin Gardens, in the St. James area of the town.
Additionally, a local swimming bath was located next to the club.
During the late 1890s and early 1900s, several bowling clubs were formed in Northampton, including the Northamptonshire Bowling Association in 1906. The Kingsthorpe Bowling Club was founded in 1896 and the Northampton County Ground Bowling Club in 1898. To commemorate the centenary, these three clubs competed for a trophy, which the Northampton West End Bowling Club won.
In 1963, the West End Bowling Club relocated its clubhouse and green to its current location in Duston, Northampton. During the move, a portion of the original green went missing, resulting in only two-thirds of the original green being laid. The remaining area was reseeded to create a new bowling green. The original clubhouse is still used today, with various extensions added over the years to accommodate the needs of the club.
A brick extension was constructed in 1987 to create a new bar and lounge area, and in 2001, portacabins were added to provide additional changing rooms for both men and women.
The Northampton West End Bowling Club has a rich history of members who have served as County Presidents for the Northamptonshire Bowling Association. These include W. Munks in 1932, T. Roberts in 1958, W.
P. Wilford in 1973, H. Heeler in 1989, G. K.
Hunt in 2003, and J. Ruff in 2004. The club also boasts members who have played for the Bowls Northamptonshire under 25's team, with one member, Jamie Walker, having the honour of captaining the team for the past three years.
With its long-standing history, beautiful green, and dedicated members, the Northampton West End Bowling Club offers a welcoming and friendly environment for individuals interested in the sport of lawn bowls. Whether you are a seasoned bowler or new to the game, the club provides opportunities for players of all skill levels to participate in competitive fixtures and club competitions. Additionally, the club offers a range of social events and activities for members to enjoy.