UK rugby leagues can be confusing, because the UK plays two codes of rugby. Rugby union is 15-a-side, while rugby league is 13-a-side, and each code has its own competitions. This guide explains the main rugby leagues in England and across the UK, so you know where each club fits.
Rugby Union Leagues in England
The Premiership is the top rugby union league in England, followed by the Championship. Below that, the National Leagues, Regional leagues and Counties leagues form a pyramid that runs down to the grassroots.
For a level-by-level breakdown, read our full guide to the rugby union league structure. In addition, the women's game has its own top flight, Premiership Women's Rugby.
Rugby League Competitions
Super League is the top rugby league competition. Most of its clubs come from the North of England, although it also includes a French club, Catalans Dragons.
Below Super League sit the semi-professional Championship divisions. Then, at community level, the National Conference League is the leading competition for amateur clubs, alongside regional leagues across the North.
| Code | Top league | Community level |
|---|---|---|
| Rugby union (England) | Premiership | Regional and Counties leagues |
| Rugby union (Wales, Scotland, Ireland) | United Rugby Championship (professional teams) | National club leagues run by each union |
| Rugby league | Super League | National Conference League and regional leagues |
Rugby Leagues Across the UK
Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland run their own rugby union club leagues. Their professional teams, however, compete together in the United Rugby Championship.
Rugby league, meanwhile, is strongest in Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cumbria and Greater Manchester. For example, see our pages on Leeds rugby clubs and Hull rugby teams.
UK Rugby Leagues FAQs
What is the difference between rugby union and rugby league?
Rugby union is played 15-a-side and rugby league 13-a-side. The codes also have different rules for tackles, scrums and scoring.
What is the top rugby league competition in the UK?
Super League is the top rugby league competition.
What is the top rugby union league in England?
The Premiership is the top rugby union league in England.
How do I find a club in my local league?
Browse rugby union clubs or rugby league clubs, then open a club profile to see where it is based. After that, contact the club directly.
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