Wellingborough Rugby Football Club has roots stretching back over 140 years. From its first recorded match in 1879 to its thriving community set-up today, WRFC has weathered wars, relocations, and revivals to become the club we know and love.

Origins (1879–1899)

• First recorded in the 1879 Football Year Book as a team in black and white playing at Midland Road.
• Operated informally for two decades, drawing players from across the market town.

Formal Formation and Early Years (1899–1914)

• Officially established in 1899, hosting local fixtures on the Union Lane pitch.
• Grew steadily until the outbreak of the First World War, when operations ceased.

Interwar Revival (1922–1939)

• Re-formed on December 7, 1922, after a meeting at the Hind Hotel.
• Early committee minutes even approved a 4d admission charge—proof of rapid growth.

Post-War Resilience (1945–1969)

• Faced uncertainty after World War II but resolved in August 1948 to continue despite no fixtures.
• Steady revival through the 1950s and 1960s, playing across various venues in Wellingborough.

Settling at Cut Throat Lane (1970–Present)

Period Venue
1879 Midland Road
1899–1914 Union Lane
1922–1969 Various locations
1970–Present Cut Throat Lane

The club finally secured its current home on Cut Throat Lane, where it has built permanent changing rooms, a clubhouse, and top-class pitches.

Modern Day and Beyond

Today WRFC fields Mini, Junior, Men’s and Ladies teams, competes in Regional 2 Midlands East, and remains a pillar of the North Northamptonshire community. Here’s to the next century of rugby at Wellingborough!