Rugby in Newcastle: Complete Guide to Local Clubs, Training & Equipment
Looking for rugby in Newcastle upon Tyne? Whether you’re searching for clubs, youth training programs, women’s teams, or equipment suppliers, this comprehensive guide covers everything rugby-related across Newcastle and its surrounding areas including Gosforth, Jesmond, Gateshead, and beyond.
Rugby Clubs in Newcastle and Surrounding Areas
Newcastle Falcons are the city’s premier professional rugby union team, based at Kingston Park Stadium in the northern suburb of Kingston Park. As the North East’s only Premiership Rugby club, they represent the pinnacle of rugby in the region, with excellent facilities including multiple pitches and a modern stadium complex.
Northern FC, based at McCracken Park in Gosforth, is one of Newcastle’s oldest rugby clubs, founded in 1875. Their extensive facilities include several well-maintained pitches and an excellent clubhouse, with teams from mini rugby through to senior level.
In the eastern suburbs, Percy Park RFC in North Shields offers quality rugby with strong youth development programs. Their Preston Playing Fields home provides excellent facilities for players of all ages.
Novocastrians RFC (known locally as “Novos”) is another well-established club based at Sutherland Park in the Longbenton area, offering rugby across all age groups in a friendly, community-focused environment.
For rugby league enthusiasts, Newcastle Thunder represent the city in the RFL Championship, playing home games at Kingston Park Stadium alongside the Falcons.
Rugby for Children and Youth in Newcastle
Newcastle offers exceptional youth rugby opportunities:
The Newcastle Falcons Community Foundation delivers comprehensive rugby development programs throughout Newcastle, including their popular “Falcons Flyers” sessions for children aged 6-11 at Kingston Park.
For younger children, Northern FC runs engaging rugby tots sessions for 3-5 year olds every Sunday morning, introducing fundamental movement skills through rugby-themed games and activities.
Novos RFC has particularly strong junior sections, with dedicated coaching for children from age 5 upwards, including specialized programs for 5-6 year olds focusing on basic skills and enjoyment.
During school holidays, rugby camps take place at venues including Kingston Park Stadium, Bullocksteads Sports Ground in Kenton, and Gateshead International Stadium, offering structured activities for children aged 6-14.
Women’s and Girls’ Rugby in Newcastle
Women’s rugby continues to grow across Newcastle:
Northern FC Women provides competitive women’s rugby with teams competing in regional competitions. Their dedicated coaching staff welcome players of all experience levels, including complete beginners at their Gosforth base.
Team Northumbria Women, affiliated with Northumbria University, offers high-level women’s rugby with excellent coaching and facilities at Bullocksteads Sports Ground.
For girls looking to start playing rugby, Newcastle Falcons Women run development sessions specifically designed for female players aged 11-18 at various locations across the city.
The RFU Women and Girls Program operates across Newcastle, with taster sessions and development opportunities offered throughout the year, creating supportive environments for those taking their first steps in rugby.
Rugby Training and Coaching in Newcastle
Beyond club training, additional coaching options exist across Newcastle:
Private one-to-one rugby coaching is available through several qualified coaches based in the region, many with connections to the Newcastle Falcons academy system.
Walking Rugby sessions take place at Exhibition Park and Gosforth Central Park, providing a less physically demanding version of the game ideal for older players or those returning from injury.
Touch rugby leagues operate during summer months at venues including Paddy Freeman’s Park in Heaton and Coach Lane Campus in Benton, offering non-contact rugby opportunities for all abilities.
Rugby Equipment and Shops in Newcastle
For rugby gear and equipment in Newcastle:
The Newcastle Falcons Club Shop at Kingston Park Stadium offers official merchandise plus a comprehensive range of boots, training wear, and equipment from leading brands.
Start Fitness on Grainger Street stocks a variety of rugby boots, protective gear, and training equipment.
Sports Direct at Eldon Square Shopping Centre provides affordable rugby essentials including boots, balls, and training wear.
For specialized boot fitting and equipment, Hardgraft Rugby in Jesmond offers expert advice and premium rugby merchandise.
Rugby Pitches and Facilities in Newcastle
Newcastle boasts several quality rugby facilities:
Kingston Park Stadium features a world-class playing surface alongside training pitches used by both the Falcons and community rugby programs.
Bullocksteads Sports Ground includes multiple rugby pitches used by various clubs and Newcastle universities.
Druids Park in Gosforth provides additional playing fields used for junior rugby tournaments and casual games.
The Newcastle University Sports Ground at Cochrane Park offers excellent rugby facilities, occasionally available for community use alongside university fixtures.
Getting to Rugby in Newcastle
Access to rugby venues is straightforward with reliable public transport and taxi services:
Local taxi companies including Blueline Taxis and LA Taxis provide reliable transport to all major rugby facilities in the Newcastle area.
Most rugby venues are well-served by Nexus Metro services, with Kingston Park Stadium having its own dedicated Metro station for Falcons and Thunder matches.
Stagecoach and Go North East bus services connect Newcastle city center with suburbs like Gosforth, Jesmond, and Heaton, making rugby facilities accessible via public transport.
Rugby Events and Culture in Newcastle
Rugby enjoys a strong presence in Newcastle alongside the city’s famous football culture:
St. James’ Park, home of Newcastle United FC, occasionally hosts major rugby events including European finals and England international matches, bringing world-class rugby to the heart of the city.
The annual Falcons Big Day Out attracts thousands of rugby fans, combining professional rugby with community activities and junior tournaments.
Whether you’re a seasoned player looking for competitive rugby, a parent seeking youth programs, or someone interested in trying the sport for the first time, Newcastle’s diverse rugby landscape offers something for everyone. From the professional setup at the Falcons to the community-focused approach of clubs like Northern and Novos, rugby continues to thrive throughout this vibrant North East city.