The 1997 SAGA World World Indoor Bowls Championship was held at Preston Guild Hall, Preston, England, from 23 January – 2 February 1997. In the singles Hugh Duff won his second title beating Andy Thomson in the final. In the pairs Tony Allcock won his seventh title in his first partnering with Mervyn King. The Women's World Championship sponsored by British Steel took place in Llanelli from April 19–20. The event was won by Norma Shaw.