Lawn Bowling - Drinking Game Rules & How to Play

Lawn Bowling is a drinking game in the Outdoor Games category for 2-8 players that takes about 30-45 min with a easy difficulty level.

Lawn bowling with drink stakes

Equipment Needed

Setup

Find a flat outdoor area where balls can roll evenly, like a lawn or park. Place the jack (the smaller target ball) at least 10 meters away to start the first end. Divide players into pairs or teams, and give each team an even number of bowling balls to roll toward the jack.

How to Play Lawn Bowling

  1. Roll jack out first
  2. Bowl balls toward jack
  3. Closest = safe
  4. Farthest = drink per meter away
  5. Hit opponent = they drink 2
  6. Hit jack = you drink 3
  7. Closest overall = assign drinks
  8. Multiple ends

Tips & Strategies

Practice your underhand bowling motion before starting. Getting close to the jack is all about controlling your speed and angle,aim slightly past the jack to avoid drinking for hitting it directly. Watch opponents' throws carefully; if their ball looks farthest, intentionally aim to knock theirs farther away to avoid penalties. For team play, communicate strategy to block opponents or cluster near the jack.

Variations

Penalty Line. Double Jack Chaos. Reverse Drinking Rules

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if multiple balls are equally farthest from the jack?
All players responsible for those balls must drink per meter away. Measurements apply to each ball separately.
Can I hit my own ball to improve its position?
Yes, you're allowed to hit your own ball to move it closer to the jack. Be careful not to send it farther away or trigger a penalty.
What counts as hitting the jack?
If your ball touches the jack at any point during your throw, you must drink 3. Rolling past or brushing it lightly still counts.
How do you measure distance for drinks?
Use a tape measure or approximate visually if everyone agrees. Measure from the center of the ball to the jack's center to stay consistent.

Players: 2-8 | Duration: 30-45 min | Difficulty: easy

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