Barnstaple
Barnstaple are a men's rugby club founded in 1877 who play in the National League 2 West (Tier 4). Their home ground is Pottington Road, which holds 2,000.
Last updated May 2026
Key facts
| Founded | 1877 |
|---|---|
| League | National League 2 West |
| Tier | Tier 4 |
| Home ground | Pottington Road |
| Capacity | 2,000 |
| Nearest station | Barnstaple |
| Local derby | Bideford |
| Marquee fixture | Boxing Day clash with Bideford |
| Matchday pub | Clubhouse bar at Pottington Road |
| Official website | https://www.barnstaplerugby.co.uk/ |
Club history
Barnstaple RFC was founded in 1877 at a meeting held at the Fortescue Hotel.
The first chairman was Mr W. A. Bilney and the first captain was Mr W. H. Toller.
The club was declared Champions of the West in the 1896/97 season.
Between 1894 and 1903 the club produced two England internationals - Charles Nobby Thomas and Charles Harper.
Barnstaple moved from Rumsam to its present Pottington Road ground in 1921.
Recent seasons
Won Regional 1 South West championship in 2024-25 to earn first ever promotion to National League 2 West.
Made an impressive start to their first NL2 West season in 2025-26 reaching as high as third in the table.
Senior coaching team for 2024-25 was led by Winston James supported by Johny Carter and James Starkey.
Drew 21-21 with Redruth at Pottington Road in their first season at tier 4.
Notable players
Club legends
- Charles Nobby Thomas
- Charles Harper
- Will Topps
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Frequently asked questions
When were Barnstaple founded?
Barnstaple were founded in 1877.
Where do Barnstaple play?
Barnstaple play at Pottington Road, which holds 2,000. The nearest station is Barnstaple.
What league do Barnstaple play in?
Barnstaple compete in the National League 2 West, tier 4 of English rugby's league structure.
Who are Barnstaple's local rivals?
Barnstaple's local derby is against Bideford.
Other National League 2 West clubs
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