York Railway Bowls & Social Club

York Railway Bowls & Social Club, located on Ashton Lane in York, is a historic and thriving club that offers the opportunity to play bowls and engage in social activities. The club recently became an independent charity on April 1st, 2022, marking a significant milestone in its history.

As a Charitable Incorporated Organisation registered in England and Wales under the charity number 1196809, York Railway Bowls & Social Club welcomes individuals of all ages and genders. With over 200 playing and social members ranging from 8 to 80+, the club aims to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

The club is composed of six sections: York RI Amateurs (Men), York RI Corinthians (Men), Hull Road Park (Men), York RI Ladies, York RI Ashton Ladies, and York RI Private Clubs League (Mixed). Each section participates in local leagues, with recent club mergers forming RI Bowls Club to compete in county and national competitions.

York Railway Bowls & Social Club takes pride in its accomplished history. It has produced three county presidents and currently boasts the county secretary and safeguarding officer as members. The club has been crowned county club champions six times and has had sixteen champions in other county competitions. Hosting touring teams from various counties and clubs across the country is a regular occurrence for the club.

The club actively supports the local community by collaborating with three local schools to introduce pupils to the sport of bowls. Additionally, the club partners with a local Scout Group to familiarise them with the game. To make the sport accessible to disabled individuals, the club has recently purchased a specially adapted wheelchair.

Furthermore, the club's facilities extend beyond the sport of bowls. The clubhouse, equipped with a licenced bar and a spacious function area, is available for hire for various functions, including birthday parties, christenings, and business meetings. All event arrangements must adhere to government COVID restrictions.

With a defibrillator on-site, the club prioritises the safety and well-being of its members and the broader community. It serves as a meeting place for the Holgate Allotment Association and offers a social outlet for residents living in the nearby Springfield Court retirement accommodation.

York Railway Bowls & Social Club is situated in a historic location. The green was officially opened on May 2nd, 1914, and has since witnessed the establishment and transformation of multiple clubs. The club's home venue, Holgate, relocated to West Park temporarily during the 1943 season before returning to its original location. The club has a rich history with the surrounding area, including the Hull Road Park, Exhibition Bowls Club, and the former L.

R. Engineers Bowls Club.

For more information, visitors can explore the club's website, which features sections such as Home, Teams, Open Triples, Social Events, 100 Club, York Speakers Club, Contact Us, Club Rules & Constitution, Club Management, YBA Newsletters, and a customisable page for individual use.

York Railway Bowls & Social Club invites both beginners and experienced bowlers to join them for a game or to hire their clubhouse for events. Embracing the spirit of community, competition, and camaraderie, the club provides a unique space for individuals to engage in this beloved sport and form lasting friendships.