Temple Bowling Club, poised between Brixton, Herne Hill, Camberwell and East Dulwich, is 140 years old in 2021.
To celebrate, it is hosting an open day on Sunday 30 May at its Sunset Road green and clubhouse off Denmark Hill between midday and 6pm.
It coincides neatly with Bowls England’s Bowls’ Big Weekend, on bank holiday Sunday.
Visitors to one of South London’s hidden gems, will be able to view its beautiful outdoor bowling green, its stylish Art Deco clubhouse, and an indoor bowling green with a magnificent roof.
The friendly bar will be open and, weather allowing, you will be able to lounge on the verandah or chill by the green on one of the many benches.
For those with a competitive nature, the club is organising a target bowls competition. For £1 you get a chance to register the highest score. The winner gets a prize and bragging rights in the bowling community.
A free one-hour bowling session for up to six people is on offer if you would like to give the sport a go for the first time. To book a free session email bowling@templebowlingclub.co.uk stating how many people and the time you would like to play (midday, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5pm).
Everyone is welcome, says the club – neighbours, local societies and groups, family, children and friends.
It will be following all relevant Covid-19 protocols, including restrictions on the number of people allowed in the club at any one time.
It suggests arriving early to avoid disappointment should the maximum number of guests be reached.
But why the Temple Bowling Club?
In 1881, when the club began life, William Temple was landlord of The Golden Lion by Camberwell Green. To thank him for letting the club bowl on land behind the pub, the club was named after him.
It has more than one anniversary this year.
One hundred years ago a New Zealand team played at Temple. The club is looking Kiwi bowlers living in England who would like to take part in a centenary match. If you fit the bill, contact bowling@templebowlingclub.co.uk
Temple Bowling Club
1A Sunset Road, SE5 8EA
020 7274 2449
