FROM ITS HUMBLE BEGINNINGS IN 1922 TO ITS VIBRANT COMMUNITY STANDING TODAY, WARLINGHAM RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB HAS A RICH AND ENDURING HISTORY. THIS IS THE STORY OF A CLUB BUILT ON THE DEDICATION OF ITS MEMBERS AND A PASSION FOR THE GAME OF RUGBY.

THE FOUNDING YEARS: 1922 - 1940
The club was born on September 4th, 1922, initially named Upper Warlingham RFC by a group of former Leytonstone RFC players. After a victorious first trial game, the club quickly established itself, changing its name to Warlingham RFC upon discovering there was no "Upper Warlingham" on a railway station. Early days saw the team playing on a rented pitch and using the local pub and village hall for meetings and changing. By 1927, the club was determined to own its own home. Through a monumental effort, a company was formed, shares were sold, and with the help of a generous deposit from Arthur Adam, the club secured the very land it occupies today.

THE POST-WAR REVIVAL
The Second World War brought a halt to regular club activities, with the clubhouse being occupied by the Royal Tank Corps and the pitches ploughed up for agricultural use. It took years of hard work to restore the ground to a playable condition. The club officially restarted in the 1948–49 season, a period of rebuilding and renewal. A new club crest was designed in the 1950s, a symbol still proudly worn by players today. Tragedy struck in 1953 when the clubhouse was destroyed by fire, but the indomitable spirit of the members shone through, and a new one was built within ten months through their collective efforts.

GROWTH AND EXPANSION
The club’s modern era began to take shape in the 1960s. In 1965, WRFC purchased additional land, creating the expansive grounds we enjoy today. The club’s on-field success grew, and by the mid-60s, they were fielding multiple teams every Saturday. A pivotal moment came in the 1970s with the introduction of Mini and Junior rugby. This section became the lifeblood of the club, fostering a new generation of players, coaches, and volunteers who would go on to shape its future.

THE MODERN CLUB
Warlingham RFC has always been a hub of activity and community spirit, with its modern clubhouse, which opened in 2005 by Rugby World Cup winner Martin Johnson, standing as a testament to the club’s progress and continued vision. The club has a proud touring tradition, a practice that has built lifelong friendships and memories. Over the years, many players have earned County caps, and two have even gone on to represent England, both of whom later returned to their roots at Warlingham to coach and help inspire the next generation of players.

Today, Warlingham Rugby Club remains committed to its founding principles: a community club that welcomes all, from seasoned players to new families, united by a love for the game and the values of rugby. The story of Warlingham RFC is still being written, and we look forward to the next chapter with all of you.