Whitstable’s Best-Kept Secret for Active and Social Retirement
When I visited Oyster Indoor Bowls Club near Whitstable Harbour, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I had heard it was a great place for people to meet, play, and stay active, but what I found was something even better—a warm, welcoming community where friendships are just as important as the game itself.
A Warm Welcome and a Blue Surprise
The first thing that caught my eye wasn’t the laughter or the steady clatter of rolling bowls—it was the colour of the playing surface. Not green, but a bright, cheery blue. As I stood watching, players carefully sent their bowls gliding across the carpet, chatting and sharing stories between turns. The game itself was gentle yet engaging, requiring just the right mix of strategy and skill.
Emma, who kindly showed me around, spoke about how the club brings people together. While some members are competitive players, many simply come for the social connection. She pointed to a group enjoying coffee at a nearby table and explained that for some, the club is as much about conversation and companionship as it is about bowls.
What really stood out was the wide range of ages among the members. While the youngest player is just six years old, many members are well into retirement, including some in their 80s, 90s, and even a remarkable 103-year-old. It was inspiring to see how the club provides a space where people can stay active and engaged at any stage of life.
More Than Just a Game
It’s easy to see why so many people feel at home here. While bowling is at the heart of the club, it’s also a social hub—a place where friendships flourish. Members regularly gather for quiz nights, games evenings, and live music performances. Recently, both a sea shanty group and a ukulele band had performed, filling the space with music, laughter, and good cheer. There’s even a small library of donated books and board games, offering yet another way for members to enjoy their time together.
For many retirees, staying socially active can be just as important as staying physically active. Having a regular place to meet others, share stories, and enjoy a laugh makes all the difference.
Getting Started—No Experience Required
For those new to bowls, coaching sessions are just £5 per lesson, and most people are ready to play after four sessions. If you decide to join, your coaching fees count toward the annual membership (£120, plus a £30 joining fee).
But there’s no pressure to play—many members prefer to simply enjoy the social side of the club. A £35 annual social membership allows people to be part of the community, attend events, and catch up with friends without ever stepping onto the blue carpet of the “green”.
A Club for Everyone
One of the most reassuring things about Oyster is how accessible and welcoming it is. The greens have been specially designed to accommodate those with mobility challenges, with adapted wheelchairs, walkers, and sticks so that everyone can participate. There’s no rush, and players are free to take breaks as needed. While incidents are rare, staff are first-aid trained to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and supported.
The club has been part of the community since 1987, and while membership once exceeded 1,000 in the 90s, it still thrives today with around 500 members. Some have been part of the club for decades, while others have joined more recently in search of a friendly, welcoming place to spend time in retirement. And they’re not just casual players—one even won Commonwealth Gold in Australia!
Easy to Join, Easy to Get There
With a private car park and great public transport links, visiting Oyster Indoor Bowls Club couldn’t be easier. In winter, it’s open 9 am – 10 pm, making it a great spot to stay active and social when the weather turns cold. In summer, the club operates shorter hours as members take advantage of the sunshine, but evening leagues continue for those who enjoy a friendly match year-round.
As I left the club, I could see why so many members make it part of their weekly routine. It’s more than just a place to play—it’s a space to belong, to share stories, and to enjoy good company.
So, if you’re looking for a friendly place to meet new people, stay active, and enjoy a sense of community in retirement, why not pop into Oyster Indoor Bowling Club? Whether you come for the sport or simply the conversation, there’s always a warm welcome waiting.
Staying Social, Staying Well
At Visiting Angels, we love highlighting community spaces like Oyster Indoor Bowls Club because we know how important it is to stay socially connected. Whether it’s a game of bowls, a friendly chat over coffee, or simply having a reason to get out and about, these moments of connection make all the difference to health and happiness.
But we also know that not everyone feels as active or independent as they used to, and that’s where we come in. Our compassionate, professional caregivers provide one-on-one support at home, whether that’s helping with daily tasks, offering companionship, or even accompanying clients to social clubs like this one. Because staying engaged with the world shouldn’t stop just because we need a little extra help.
If you or a loved one could benefit from personalised home care with a focus on well-being and companionship, we’d love to chat. You can reach us at 01227 204858 because everyone deserves to feel part of a caring community, no matter their circumstances.