Bowling is enjoyed throughout Europe in various formats, including tenpin bowling and lawn bowling (also known as flat green bowling). Here’s a selection of notable bowling clubs and organizations across Europe:

Tenpin Bowling

1. European Tenpin Bowling Federation (ETBF): Governs tenpin bowling in Europe and organizes competitions, including the European Championships.
2. Local Bowling Alleys: Many countries have regional bowling alleys that host leagues and tournaments, including national championship events.

Countries and Notable Clubs

• United Kingdom
  • National Tenpin Bowling Service (NTBS): Provides resources and organizes competitions for tenpin bowling.
  • Local Bowling Clubs: Numerous clubs throughout the UK, including regional championships.
• Germany
  • Deutscher itsbowler Verband (DBV): The main governing body for tenpin bowling in Germany.
  • Bowling Centers: Many dedicated bowling halls, often with leagues and tournaments.
• France
  • Fédération Française de Bowling et de Sports de Quilles (FFBSQ): Governs tenpin bowling and organizes various competitions.
  • Clubs in Major Cities: Numerous clubs in cities like Paris that host leagues and events.
• Italy
  • Federazione Italiana Bowling (FIB): The national governing body for bowling in Italy, overseeing competitions throughout the country.
  • Bowling Centers: Various clubs and centers in major cities that host leagues.
• Spain
  • Spanish National Bowling Federation (Federación Española de Bowling): Governs the sport in Spain, promoting and organizing championships.
  • Local Clubs: Various bowling centers across cities like Madrid and Barcelona.

Lawn Bowling

1. World Bowls: The international governing body for the sport of lawn bowls, promoting competitions at all levels.
2. European Bowls Union (EBU): Coordinates bowls events across Europe, hosting championships and working to promote the sport.

Notable Lawn Bowling Clubs

• England
  • English Bowls Association: Organizes events and promotes lawn bowling throughout England.
  • Various Local Clubs: Hundreds of community and county clubs exist, providing facilities for players.
• Scotland
  • Bowling Clubs: Known as the birthplace of the sport, Scotland has numerous historic and modern clubs.
  • Scottish Bowling Association: Governs the sport in Scotland, organizing competitions.
• Ireland
  • Irish Bowling Association: Governs lawn bowling and organizes events across Ireland.
• Netherlands
  • Bowls Nederland: The national governing body for lawn bowling, overseeing competitions and development.

Conclusion

Europe boasts a rich bowling culture, with numerous clubs for both tenpin and lawn bowling. From community leagues to national organizations and international competitions, bowling is a beloved pastime across many countries in the continent. Whether you’re looking for competitive play or a casual experience, you’ll find a vibrant bowling community throughout Europe.