About
Ongar Pétanque is proudly a members’ club, run voluntarily by its members, with a dedicated Management Committee organising both social and competitive events to suit all abilities and interests.
The club is affiliated to Pétanque England, ensuring that our players and events are covered by Public Liability Insurance. We maintain up-to-date Risk Assessments and Safeguarding Policies, reflecting our commitment to providing a safe and well-organised environment for everyone.
With eight terrains, we comfortably accommodate our 30+ regular members, enabling weekly play where new and experienced players integrate, develop their skills, and enjoy the social camaraderie that defines our club.
Our recently constructed rain shelter offers protection during wet weather, while the surrounding mature trees provide welcome shade on the warmest summer days. We have enhanced the area for the benefit of the wider community with picnic benches, accessible pathways, shrub planting and vibrant spring bulbs, creating an attractive and welcoming setting.
Our Main Club sessions held on Sundays 10.30 – 1.30 throughout the year.
Regular Practice & Coaching sessions for members and newcomers on Wednesdays 12:30 – 2:30.
Events & Community
Our Management Committee is delighted to host fellow Pétanque clubs from across the Eastern Counties, organising a varied programme of events throughout the year. These competitions have proved extremely popular, attracting up to 80 players — including England and County-ranked competitors — all of whom appreciate the quality of our facilities and organisation.
The pétanque area is also open to the wider community and visitors to our town. It provides a peaceful place for young families, ramblers and walking groups to rest and enjoy the surroundings.
Situated beside the children’s play park, at the rear of the Pleasance Car Park, behind Ongar Library and The Cock Tavern, and centrally located just off the High Street, the site is easily accessible and conveniently close to local shops, cafés and historic attractions.
Ongar Twinning
Officially twinned with the town of Cerizay in France. On the 25th anniversary of the Twinning the Mayor of Cerizay and Ron Barnes (Founder of Ongar Twinning) suggested that a Pétanque piste be laid at the Cerizay garden behind Ongar Library, and an annual Challenge competition commenced.
From that point the sport attracted many Ongar players and has grown in stature from the initial 3 terrains to the impressive 8 terrains we have today. Cerizay and Ongar arrange magnificent visits to the compatriots alternate Easter Weekends.
For over four decades, our two towns have shared a valued friendship through their twinning connection.
Cerizay, situated in the Deux-Sèvres region of western France near Nantes, has been our partner town since 1985. In 2025, we proudly celebrated 40 years of friendship with a joint pétanque tournament.
To find out more or to become involved with Ongar Twinning, visit their Facebook page.
Facilities
With eight terrains, our members take great pride in this unique setting in Ongar. Everyone plays a part in maintaining the pistes — clearing leaves and litter, regularly raking the surfaces, helping with improvements such as security lighting, and providing refreshments for all who join us.
It is this shared commitment and friendly atmosphere that makes our club so welcoming and special.
Acknowledgements
Our sincere thanks to John Sear Estate Agents for their continued support and commitment to our club.
Ongar Pétanque Club would also like to express its sincere thanks to Qualis, Epping Forest District Council, Ongar Town Council, and Ongar Town Festival for their generous grant support.
Their funding has played a vital role in developing our facilities — from expanding our terrains and enhancing landscaping, to improving accessibility, lighting and shelter. Thanks to their continued support, Ongar Pétanque has grown into the welcoming, high-quality venue we are proud to enjoy today.
We are extremely grateful for their commitment to supporting local sport and strengthening our community.
