Free introductory lesson

Every new visitor to the club receives a free introductory lesson — and your first three games are on us. Your introduction will cover the basics of Golf Croquet: how to hold the mallet, how to take a stance, how to aim, and the fundamental rules of the game. By the end of your first afternoon you'll be able to join in a proper game.

Ongoing support for new members

Once you join, our more experienced members are always willing to offer tips and guidance during club sessions. Crawley is a friendly, non-competitive environment — you'll never feel rushed or out of your depth.

Golf Croquet: the basics

We play Golf Croquet, which is simpler and faster than Association Croquet. The aim is to be the first player or side to run each hoop in order. The key skills to develop are:

• Stance and grip — a consistent, comfortable stance is the foundation of everything
• Aiming — learning to read the line between your ball and the hoop
• Weight of shot — controlling how hard you hit to get the right distance
• Tactics — when to attack the hoop and when to play defensively

Developing further

As your game develops you may want to enter club competitions or take part in league matches. The club participates in Croquet South East competitions and our more experienced members are happy to guide you through the competitive side of the game when you feel ready.

Croquet England also offer coaching courses and qualifications for those who want to take the game more seriously. More information is available at croquetengland.org.uk.

Footwear

Please wear flat-soled shoes on the lawns at all times — trainers are ideal. Heels, studded shoes, and cleated soles cause damage to the turf and are not permitted. If in doubt, check before you step on.

Mowing and maintenance

At all times, priority must be given to any mowing or maintenance taking place. The club maintains the lawns directly, so if a member is mowing or carrying out maintenance, please stand aside and wait until they have finished. Do not play across a section that is being worked on.

Equipment

All club equipment — mallets, balls, hoops, and clips — should be treated with care. After play, please return all equipment to the storage hut and ensure it is properly secured. Do not leave balls or mallets on the lawn unattended.

Evening play

Evening play is permitted until dusk. However, please remember that there is no suitable lighting at the lawns or in the hut, so allow enough time to put away all equipment before the light fades. Do not leave equipment out overnight.

Right of way

When two games are being played simultaneously, be aware of the other game and give way where necessary. Communicate with other players if your balls are likely to interfere with their game.

General conduct

Crawley Croquet Club is a friendly, welcoming club. Please treat all members, visitors, and park users with respect. Poor behaviour, aggressive play, or deliberate damage to the lawns or equipment will be taken seriously by the committee.