Fylde
Fylde are a men's rugby club founded in 1919 who play in the National League 2 North (Tier 4). Their home ground is The Woodlands, which holds 7,500.
Last updated May 2026
Key facts
| Founded | 1919 |
|---|---|
| League | National League 2 North |
| Tier | Tier 4 |
| Home ground | Woodlands Memorial Ground (The Woodlands) |
| Capacity | 7,500 |
| Nearest station | Ansdell and Fairhaven |
| Local derby | Preston Grasshoppers |
| Marquee fixture | Boxing Day derby vs Preston Grasshoppers |
| Matchday pub | Clubhouse bar at Woodlands |
| Official website | https://fylde.rugby/ |
Club history
Founded in July 1919 by a group of Manchester businessmen at the Ansdell Institute after a coin toss landed in favour of rugby over football.
The Woodlands ground was first used for rugby in May 1920 and was purchased for £7000 in 1946.
The ground was renamed the Woodlands Memorial Ground in tribute to club members who died in World War II.
Bill Beaumont joined Fylde as a 17-year-old in 1969 and remained a one-club man until injury forced retirement in 1982 having captained England to the 1980 Grand Slam and the British Lions tour of South Africa.
Lock Wade Dooley played at Fylde in the mid-1980s between two stints at Preston Grasshoppers and won 55 England caps plus selection for the 1989 Lions tour.
Recent seasons
Fylde RFC continued under joint head coaches Chris Briers and Alex Loney into the 2025-26 NL2 North season after they celebrated their 100th game in joint charge in February 2025.
The club hosted the Bill Beaumont County Championship 'War of the Roses' match between Lancashire and Yorkshire at Woodlands ground.
Fylde occupied sixth place in the 2025-26 NL2 North table with three matches left to play in April 2026.
Fylde opened the 2025-26 NL2 North campaign with a 22-22 draw away to Hull Ionians on 6 September 2025.
Notable players
Club legends
- Bill Beaumont
- Wade Dooley
- Steve Bainbridge
- Tony Swift
- Simon Smith
Turning Fylde footage into insight
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Frequently asked questions
When were Fylde founded?
Fylde were founded in 1919.
Where do Fylde play?
Fylde play at The Woodlands, which holds 7,500. The nearest station is Ansdell and Fairhaven.
What league do Fylde play in?
Fylde compete in the National League 2 North, tier 4 of English rugby's league structure.
Who are Fylde's local rivals?
Fylde's local derby is against Preston Grasshoppers.
Other National League 2 North clubs
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