York might be better known for its Viking heritage and medieval streets than its sporting pedigree, but the city has a surprisingly rich rugby scene, spanning professional league, community union clubs, and plenty of atmospheric pubs to catch the big international fixtures.
Where to Watch Rugby in York’s Pubs and Bars
If you’ve got your eye on any particular rugby fixtures best watched in a pub or bar, then the city centre has plenty of options.
The Terrace is York’s only dedicated sports bar, while the Old White Swan on Goodramgate, a 16th-century Nicholson’s pub, carries Sky Sports, TNT Sports, Viaplay and Prime Video.
The Old Bank offers over 20 HD screens across two floors, and O’Neill’s is a reliable option with a lively atmosphere on international weekends.
York Knights: Super League at the LNER Community Stadium
York’s most significant rugby offering is the York Knights, who are competing in the Betfred Super League for the first time in the club’s history.
Home games take place at the LNER Community Stadium in Huntington, a modern 8,500-capacity ground with good transport links from the city centre via the Y22 matchday bus service.
Tickets are well-priced at £25 for adults, with under-12s admitted free, making it an accessible day out for families and visiting fans alike.
York Valkyrie: Women’s Rugby League
Many Knights home games are played as double-headers with York Valkyrie, the club’s women’s team that made history by becoming the first back-to-back Women’s Super League champions.
The Valkyrie are one of the strongest sides in the women’s game in England, and attending a double-header gives visitors two matches for the price of one in a single afternoon at the stadium.
Get Involved: Local Clubs and Training Sessions
For locals wanting to get involved, York RUFC trains at Clifton Park on Shipton Road, with men’s sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7pm and women’s sessions on Wednesday evenings at 7pm, all open to new players.
Nestlé Rowntree RUFC, with over 130 years of history in the city, also offer a welcoming community alternative with junior and senior sections.
Plan Your Rugby Visit to York
Whether you’re after a pint and a big screen for the Six Nations, a Super League matchday at a modern stadium, or a training session with a local club, York has more to offer rugby fans than its reputation might suggest.
