 Born in Glossop in Derbyshire, Bowler began his career at Stockport County, making his debut in a League Cup match against Derby County on 22 August 2006.His final match for Stockport was a 1–1 draw at Bradford City on 24 November 2007.He signed for Northwich Victoria on 4 January 2008, making his debut for the club the following day in a 2–1 home defeat by Aldershot Town.