u3a

Stanway in Colchester

Pétanque

Status:	Active, open to new members
Leader:	Petanque Group enquiry
When:	Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning during school term dates, but not in December.
Venue:	Stanway area

Please note that places are only available currently on the Wednesday 11.00am session, the other sessions are FULL. If you wish to join the open session or be added to the waiting list for the other sessions please contact the Group Leader using the above link, stating which day you are interested in playing.

**If you are interested I can help you start a new group on another day or time - click here for more information.**

This group was established in 2012 and in May 2023 we moved to a purpose built outdoor Pétanque rink in Stanway, see photos.

Sessions run weekly as follows during school term time (weather permitting) but not at all in December.

Tuesday afternoons from 2-4pm (FULL)

Wednesday morning from 9.30am to 11.00am. (FULL)

Wednesday morning from 11am to 12.30pm. (Open to new members)

This is a very addictive sport and is easy to pick up. It is possible to become quite accurate very quickly; playing as part of a team develops tactical and observational skills. We aim to have fun and enjoy the social aspect, while practicing the skills of 'pointing' and 'shooting' in the sport of Boules from a standing spot within a designated circle (which is why it is called Pétanque to differentiate from Boules).

Depending on numbers attending on the day we play in teams of 2, 3 or 4 per side, or play singles competition style. For simple playing instructions and more information on the game and rules see the links on this page.

There is no charge to play, but members are encouraged to use the onsite café as appreciation for the use of the playing facilities. In between games or after play some of our group stay to enjoy a chat and light refreshments.

Access - the venue has ample free parking during school term time and is suitable for wheelchair users. However please note the Pétanque rink is completely surrounded by single raised sleepers which may be a trip hazard (see photos).

Trainers or casual footwear is advised but no other equipment is required as boules, scoreboards, jacks (cochonets) and measures are provided.

We run an annual singles competition in Autumn for our members trophy, and arrange a group meal over the festive period for those who wish to attend.

Photo taken 25 February 2026 of our Wednesday morning group members enjoying their first post-session refreshments outdoors in the rare sunshine!!