Southend welcomes first croquet club at Priory Park

April 17, 2025

Southend-on-Sea City Council is pleased to announce the opening of the city’s first croquet club at Prittlewell Bowls and Croquet Club in Priory Park.

The new croquet club offers a new opportunity for residents to get active and social in one of Southend’s most cherished Green Flag award winning parks.

The club’s opening days will take place on Saturday 26 April and Sunday 27 April between 13:30 and 16:30 in Priory Park. Residents are invited to enjoy a friendly game of croquet, and learn more about joining the newly formed croquet section on both days.

The Mayor, Cllr Ron Woodley, and Cllr Lydia Hyde will be officially opening the new season at 3pm on the Saturday. Equipment will be provided, and light refreshments will be available for purchase on both days.

Following this, a dedicated Croquet and Bowls Taster Day will take place on Sunday 4 May between 10:30 and 16:00, giving anyone interested in the croquet or bowls a chance to have a go in a relaxed, welcoming environment with guidance from experienced club members.

The introduction of croquet marks an exciting expansion for the club, which has been a hub of community sport for decades. With this addition, Prittlewell becomes the only club in the city offering both lawn bowls and croquet, two inclusive, sociable sports that are ideal for people of all ages and experience levels.

Cllr Lydia Hyde, cabinet member for climate, environment and waste, said: “It’s fantastic to see local clubs growing and adapting to offer even more ways for people to come together and stay active.

“The addition of a new croquet club to Prittlewell Bowls, located in our stunning Priory Park, is a brilliant way to encourage more people to get outside and enjoy a sport that’s open to everyone, regardless of age or ability.

“Clubs like this show how our parks and community spaces can support both wellbeing and connection. We’re proud to support it, and I hope lots of people will give it a go.”

All events are free and open to all, and the club is actively welcoming new members for both bowls and croquet. No experience is necessary, and equipment is provided.

To find out more about Prittlewell Bowls and Croquet Club, visit: Welcome to Prittlewell Bowls & Croquet Club | Friendly Club in Essex

For details of other sport and leisure activities available in Southend, visit: Sports and leisure – Southend-on-Sea City Council