LA BOWL
The family-owned leisure facility has much to celebrate
There’s something about the atmosphere in a tenpin bowling alley. It’s the rumble of the heavy balls as they glide down the lane towards their target, the crash of pins as they tumble into the pit, and the squeak of rubber soles on the polished floor. Not forgetting the squeals of excitement and calls of “Strike!” when all ten pins are knocked down. Add the bright lights and unique, somewhat nostalgic smell, and there’s nothing else quite like it.
With 16 bowling lanes, Ayr’s LA Bowl is never short of atmosphere, but lately, there’s an extra buzz of excitement at 17 Miller Road.
During a prestigious ceremony at The Scottish Hospitality Awards at Glasgow’s DoubleTree by Hilton on 17th June, LA Bowl was voted Scottish Bowling Alley of the Year. The Awards highlight excellence and recognise outstanding businesses in the country’s vibrant hospitality sector.
Understandably, owner Julia Claxton and Head Coach James Claxon were thrilled with the recognition and quickly praised business partner, Constance McIlwraith, and team of staff for their commitment. They also thanked LA Bowl’s customers for their continued support.
But the good news doesn’t end there. Julia’s granddaughter, 15-year-old Isla Claxton, won the Scottish Youth Open 2026 after finishing runner-up in last year’s tournament. The competition was held at the Murrayfield Indoor Sports Club in Edinburgh in June where Isla was named the official Girls Champion. Isla has been bowling since she was four years old and has certainly helped to put Ayr’s LA Bowl on the map.
But there’s more! Isla has also been selected to play in the Adult Triple Crown in Dublin, Ireland in September along with fellow Junior Bowler, Sarah Scott. Quite an achievement for the two youngsters.
And finally, LA Bowl hosted the Youth Triple Crown in August where the home nations, plus Iceland, competed in front of the Lord-Lieutenant Iona Sara McDonald. It was an honour for the family-owned business to host such a high-profile competition and was followed by a banquet at the Western House Hotel, a fitting finale to such a significant event.
LA Bowl wishes to thank Bowling Vision for its constant support. It also invites you to sample the brilliant atmosphere for yourself at 17 Miller Road. See Facebook for opening times (L.A Bowl Ayr).
