London Welsh
London Welsh are a men's rugby club founded in 1885 who play in the National League 2 East (Tier 4). Their home ground is Old Deer Park.
Last updated May 2026
Key facts
| Founded | 1885 |
|---|---|
| League | National League 2 East |
| Tier | Tier 4 |
| Home ground | Old Deer Park |
| Nearest station | Richmond |
| Matchday pub | Clubhouse bar at Old Deer Park |
| Official website | https://www.londonwelshrfc.com/ |
Club history
The club was formed in 1885 by London's Welsh community after a meeting at a Fleet Street hotel.
The first match took place on 24 October 1885 against London Scottish at Herne Hill.
The club moved to Old Deer Park in Richmond in 1957 where Lions legends including JPR Williams Gerald Davies John Dawes John Taylor and Mervyn Davies all played during the golden years from 1966 to 1973.
London Welsh played in the English Premiership in the 2012-13 and 2014-15 seasons after promotions from the RFU Championship.
The professional club went into liquidation in December 2016 and was removed from the RFU Championship in January 2017 with an amateur club emerging from the ashes.
Recent seasons
Won the Regional 1 South Central title in the 2024-25 season earning promotion to National League 2 East.
Returned to the National Leagues for the first time since the professional club went into liquidation in December 2016.
Climbed back up through five promotions in seven seasons starting from Herts/Middlesex 1 after the professional collapse.
Continues to play at Old Deer Park in Richmond-upon-Thames the spiritual home of the club since 1957.
Notable players
Club legends
- JPR Williams
- Gerald Davies
- John Dawes
- Mervyn Davies
- John Taylor
Turning London Welsh footage into insight
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Frequently asked questions
When were London Welsh founded?
London Welsh were founded in 1885.
Where do London Welsh play?
London Welsh play at Old Deer Park. The nearest station is Richmond.
What league do London Welsh play in?
London Welsh compete in the National League 2 East, tier 4 of English rugby's league structure.
Other National League 2 East clubs
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