OUR STORY
The current phase of St George Bowls and Social Club is bringing life back to a place that previously sat at the heart of the community.
Prior to 2026, the Bowls Club at St George Park had been vacant for a number of years. When the council began searching for a new Leaseholder, it provided an opportunity to restore more than just a building.
Residents of St George and members of the wider community have come together to help bring back this former pillar of the local area, committing to its regeneration and development
A CIC was formed to revive the space acknowledging tradition, while also reimagining it for the needs of today’s community. The vision is rooted around bowls as a heritage sport, but extends beyond it to create a welcoming hub for multi-generational social connection, wellbeing, and inclusivity.
It is hoped that the space will be a vibrant hub. With your support, St George Bowls & Social Club will continue to grow into a place where leisure brings people together and is a force for good.
THE JOURNEY SO FAR
2024 - 2025: Conception & planning.
Long term lease in progress with BCC.
Community Interest Company established.
Initial community engagement and consultation takes place.
Planning, licensing, and operational groundwork.
January 2026: Initial works & renovations.
Site access and initial clean-up.
Developing the social club model and programming.
Building local partnerships and raising support.
Assessing the buildings and the Bowling Greens.
February 2026: Hiring and recruitment and green developments
Recruitment process for several key roles at St George Bowls Club commences.
Building local partnerships and support.
Renovation work of the bowling greens commences.
March 2026: Crowdfunder launched and volunteer callout
Crowdfunder launched to help cover the set up and infrastructure costs for the Bowls provision, Green Space and Clubhouse for the first phase of opening in Spring 2026.
Volunteer call out.
April 2026: See the space and large scale renovations
The ‘See The Space’ event gave the community access to the space for the first time.
Internal Clubhouse refurbishment underway.
First Bowling Green grass cut.
Community Practitioner callout.
May 2026 and beyond
The Social Club opens to the public with cafe and a small bar.
Social, casual, pay-to-play lawn bowls sessions.
Programme development of community activity.
Continued work towards phase two and Sauna provision.
HISTORY
The Bristol Omnibus Bowls Club was founded in 1936 for employees of the Bristol Tramways, this club was more than a place to play, it was a community. From friendly matches to lasting friendships, it brought people together for decades.
Sadly, rising costs eventually led to its closure, but its potential to return as a cornerstone of community spirit was there.
The bowls club has and will continue to stand for, community and connection. St George Bowls & Social Club will honour its rich history while trying to create a modern space that serves the needs of today’s community.
