Wharfedale
Wharfedale are a men's rugby club who play in the National League 2 North (Tier 4). Their home ground is The Avenue, which holds 2,000.
Last updated May 2026
Key facts
| League | National League 2 North |
|---|---|
| Tier | Tier 4 |
| Home ground | The Avenue |
| Capacity | 2,000 |
| Nearest station | Skipton |
| Local derby | Otley |
| Marquee fixture | Yorkshire derby vs Otley |
| Matchday pub | Old Hall Inn - near the ground |
| Official website | https://www.wharfedalerufc.co.uk/ |
Club history
The club played its first fixture in autumn 1923 having been started by a local doctor who put together fifteen names on a team sheet with the vicar supplying a ball.
The club was originally known as Upper Wharfedale RUFC before its later renaming.
Wharfedale has been based at Wharfeside Avenue in Threshfield in the Yorkshire Dales since 1958.
Club legend Michael Clarty Harrison made 665 first XV appearances over 22 years and was the grandson of founder member James Harrison.
Club president John Spencer was a former England centre with 14 caps and toured New Zealand with the 1971 British Lions playing in ten tour matches.
Recent seasons
Wharfedale RUFC continues its amateur and community-driven ethos refusing professionalisation to maintain financial stability.
The club is supported by around 25 volunteers per matchday underpinning operations and remains debt-free despite reduced RFU funding.
Wharfedale lost 50-19 away to Tynedale in the opening fixture of the 2025-26 NL2 North season.
Wharfedale beat Otley 42-28 at home during the 2024-25 NL2 North season.
Notable players
Club legends
- John Spencer
- Mike Harrison
Turning Wharfedale footage into insight
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Frequently asked questions
Where do Wharfedale play?
Wharfedale play at The Avenue, which holds 2,000. The nearest station is Skipton.
What league do Wharfedale play in?
Wharfedale compete in the National League 2 North, tier 4 of English rugby's league structure.
Who are Wharfedale's local rivals?
Wharfedale's local derby is against Otley.
Other National League 2 North clubs
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