Rossendale
Rossendale are a men's rugby club founded in 1969 who play in the National League 2 North (Tier 4). Their home ground is Marl Pits, which holds 1,100.
Last updated May 2026
Key facts
| Founded | 1969 |
|---|---|
| League | National League 2 North |
| Tier | Tier 4 |
| Home ground | Marl Pits |
| Capacity | 1,100 |
| Nearest station | Accrington |
| Local derby | Preston Grasshoppers |
| Matchday pub | Clubhouse bar at Marl Pits |
| Official website | https://www.rossendalerufc.com/ |
Club history
Rossendale RUFC was founded in 1969 in the Rossendale Valley of Lancashire after an advertisement was placed in the local Free Press.
The first matches were played on rudimentary farmland high above Rawtenstall with no changing rooms or other basic facilities.
The club later relocated down the valley to Marl Pits on Newchurch Road in Rawtenstall to establish a permanent base.
The Marl Pits clubhouse accommodates up to 120 people for functions and dinners.
Recent seasons
Rossendale RUFC were crowned 2024-25 Regional 1 North West champions after beating Stoke-on-Trent 73-31 at home at Marl Pits in their final match of the season.
Promotion took Rossendale into the 2025-26 NL2 North as new boys for the fourth tier.
The club continue to play at Marl Pits in Rawtenstall next to the Marl Pits Leisure Centre complex.
Rossendale travelled to Hull RUFC in their opening 2025-26 NL2 North fixture in September 2025.
Notable players
Club legends
- Chris Mayor
Turning Rossendale footage into insight
Every match Rossendale play holds a goldmine of detail. Framesports turns rugby footage into the analytics that actually matter and data that builds smarter game plans, collected by analysts and checked by humans. See how it works on the Framesports features page.
Frequently asked questions
When were Rossendale founded?
Rossendale were founded in 1969.
Where do Rossendale play?
Rossendale play at Marl Pits, which holds 1,100. The nearest station is Accrington.
What league do Rossendale play in?
Rossendale compete in the National League 2 North, tier 4 of English rugby's league structure.
Who are Rossendale's local rivals?
Rossendale's local derby is against Preston Grasshoppers.
Other National League 2 North clubs
Spot something wrong, or want this page updated? Email support@framesports.ai and we’ll fix it.
Framesports is an independent rugby platform and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Rossendale.