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The Bowling Club records go back to 1747 and there are other indications that the green was established prior to this date. The green, which is behind The Castle restaurant opposite the Church, has been in constant use.
The Castle was once called the Bunch of Grapes (which is how the club derived its emblem). The Coffin Room within was where bodies would be laid out while awaiting burial (and possibly autopsies carried out too). This shows the inn's original use as a church-house where the clergy sold ale to raise ecclesiastical funds. It also had the only bread ovens in the village, still to be seen in the lounge bar. The Bowling Green, adjoining it, is the oldest in the county. King Charles I is said to have played upon it. The club, although not the oldest established club in the country, is the oldest playing on the original green (which was extended circa 1920).
W.G. Grace, the famous cricketer, played at Hurst as a member of the London Club – and was not amused to lose the game!
In 1997 we celebrated our 250th Anniversary with a day of celebrations including playing in period dress from across the years. Pictures of this will follow later.
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W.G. Grace, the famous cricketer, played at Hurst |
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To contact us: |
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01344 625828 |
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History |
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Hurst Bowling Club |
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Sociable enjoyment since 1747 |