Are you a rugby enthusiast or simply curious about the sport in London? Either way, you may be wondering, just how many rugby teams are there in London?
Well, the answer is not a simple one. London is home to numerous rugby clubs, both amateur and professional. Let’s take a closer look.
Professional Teams
Currently, there are two professional rugby teams in London that compete in the top tier of English rugby, the Gallagher Premiership. These teams are:
- Harlequins: Based in Twickenham, Harlequins have a rich history dating back to 1866. They have won multiple domestic and European titles over the years.
- Saracens: Based in Watford, Saracens have been at the forefront of English club rugby since their establishment in 1876. They have also enjoyed success both domestically and in Europe.
Semi-Professional Teams
In addition to these two top-tier teams, there are a number of semi-professional clubs that compete in lower divisions but still draw large crowds and offer high-quality rugby. Some of the most notable semi-pro teams include:
- Ealing Trailfinders: Based in West London, Ealing Trailfinders have been on the rise in recent years and narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premiership for the 2020-21 season.
- Richmond: Another West London-based club with a long history dating back to 1861. Richmond currently competes in National League 1.
- London Scottish: Founded in 1878, London Scottish has a proud history that includes producing some notable players over the years. They currently compete in National League 1.
Amateur Teams
Beyond the professional and semi-professional ranks, there are countless amateur rugby clubs throughout London. These clubs range in skill level and competitiveness, but all offer a chance to play the sport and be part of a team. Some of the most popular amateur teams include:
- Barnes: Based in South West London, Barnes is one of the oldest rugby clubs in the world, having been founded in 1862.
- Blackheath: Founded in 1858, Blackheath is another historic club that has produced some notable players over the years.
- Hampstead: Located in North West London, Hampstead is a relatively young club that has quickly gained popularity since its establishment in 1999.
In Conclusion
So how many rugby teams are there in London? The answer depends on what level of rugby you’re looking at.
From top-tier professional teams like Harlequins and Saracens to grassroots amateur clubs like Barnes and Hampstead, there is no shortage of rugby options for fans and players alike. So whether you’re looking to watch some high-quality rugby or get involved yourself, there’s sure to be a team for you in London.