A market town with a global legacy; the birthplace of rugby football, with plenty happening now and even more to come.
Place brand
Rugby is a place of pride and possibility, rooted in heritage, powered by innovation, and shaped by the people who call it home. We are made for living, welcoming, vibrant and ready for what comes next. From our strong sense of community to our green spaces, culture and connectivity, Rugby is a town with plenty happening now and even more to come.
The Game
Rugby is the only town in the world to have given its name to a global sport.
The story of rugby football is deeply rooted in the town’s heritage and within the famous grounds of Rugby School where the game evolved.
Rugby School and Webb Ellis
Founded in 1567 by Lawrence Sheriff, Rugby School is one of England’s oldest and most prestigious schools. It is recognised across the world as the birthplace of the game of rugby football and remains one of the town’s most iconic landmarks and heritage attractions.
Rugby School is recognised by many for its association with William Webb Ellis, the pupil who according to rugby tradition, during a football match on The Close in 1823, took the ball and ran with it, spawning the game now played and loved by millions around the world.
Our visitor team lives, works and plays here — ask anything from "best Sunday roast" to "where can I watch the game?" and we'll point you in the right direction.