A marlpit was where 'marl' (clay) was dug out of the ground. Marl was used as a soil conditioner in farming, so these pits are all round the country.

Farming is an essential industry, and farmers would look for the nearest source of marl. These pits would then be travelled too, creating the need for roads.

Most of the Bowling Greens by marl pits are also by pubs built to serve working men and labourers. Looking for a way to keep patrons happy at the pub, bowls was a common sport and easy to play.

A jack (small white ball) is rolled onto the green and players take turns rolling bowls (larger weighted balls) to see who can get the closest. They can hit the jack or other players' bowls with their own.

No. There are even smaller lawn bowls made specifically for younger players, although they are below the official tournment weight.

Buying a club membership can be costly, but most modern bowling greens will have open days where you can use the club facilities. In the old days, bowling greens simply let people turn up, pay, and play!