The Story of Burnage Rugby Club

From Schoolyard Scraps to League Champions: The Story of Burnage Rugby Club

Knowing about a community hub like Burnage Rugby Club is always fascinating. So here is a look at the history of this local institution.  

Burnage Rugby Club has been a significant part of the local community of South Manchester for longer than almost any of us can remember. Nestled in Heaton Mersey, Stockport, Burnage Rugby Club boasts a rich history that stretches back nearly nine decades. But the club’s roots lie not on the green fields it calls home today, but in the schoolyard of Burnage High School.

In 1936, the first chapter of Burnage RFC began as an old boys’ club. Fresh-faced school leavers, yearning to keep the camaraderie forged on the school rugby pitches alive, formed the club. These early years were likely filled with friendly matches and the forging of a distinct Burnage rugby identity.

While details of this early era are scarce, there’s no doubt that Burnage Rugby Club persevered through the challenges of World War II and beyond. Then, in 1970s, a pivotal moment arrived. The club, still tethered to its Burnage origins in South Manchester, secured a new lease on life. Local benefactor Emerson gifted the club 3.5 acres of land in Heaton Mersey, Stockport. This marked a turning point. Burnage RFC was no longer just an old boys’ club; it was establishing itself as a permanent fixture in the Stockport sporting landscape.

The move to Varley Park, the club’s current home, ushered in an era of growth and development. The dedicated facilities allowed Burnage to not only field senior teams but also nurture the next generation of rugby stars through a flourishing mini and junior section. This commitment to youth development continues to be a cornerstone of the club’s ethos today, as evidenced by their thriving Burnage Rugby Academy.

On the field, Burnage RFC has steadily climbed the ranks of English rugby. Their trophy cabinet boasts several accolades, including the North Lancs 2 championship in 1999, the South Lancs/Cheshire 1 title a decade later, and most recently, the North 1 West championship in 2020. These achievements are a testament to the dedication of players, coaches, and the loyal Burnage faithful who have cheered them on throughout the years.

However, Burnage RFC is more than just a rugby club; it’s a community hub. The clubrooms at Varley Park are a popular venue for social gatherings, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie amongst players, supporters, and the wider South Manchester community. This welcoming atmosphere is a major draw for new members, ensuring the club’s traditions are passed down to future generations. The club is constantly looking to the future and has been investing in environmentally friendly technology in the form of solar panels and heat pumps.

Its role as an event location is drawing in more people than ever. It now runs as a wedding venue; a location for alternative funerals; a wonderfully warm place to hold a party; a fantastic venue to host a corporate event and team-building day; even christenings fit perfectly into the surroundings because everyone loves to get that feel of the countryside in the heart of the city. You can play golf and footgolf here, five-a-side football, and of course, rugby! And let’s not forget the fantastic weekly Car Boot Sale that runs from May to September and brings out everyone!

It’s wonderful when a place like this becomes the heart of a local community. There are so many various, fun, and exciting things to do there, so come down and have a party, play some sport, sell some stuff, and have a pint!

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