Chinnor
Chinnor Rugby Club has come a long way from its traditional village-club roots, having established itself in the Championship and taken on some considerably bigger names in English rugby. Based on the outskirts of Thame in Oxfordshire, Kingsey Road remains a proper rugby club rather than a purpose-built stadium, although there are clear ambitions to move things forward.
The Ground
Kingsey Road is a relatively modest ground, but it has been steadily improving as Chinnor has climbed the rugby ladder. There is a covered grandstand, standing areas around the pitch and plenty of room to watch the game from close to the action.Don't expect the polished surroundings of a Premiership stadium. This is a more down-to-earth affair, where the emphasis is on the rugby and the club atmosphere rather than fancy architecture.
The club has also been investing in its facilities, including improved covered standing accommodation. Plans for a new 5,000-seat covered stadium have been announced, subject to planning approval, which would represent a considerable step forward for a club with such comparatively recent Championship ambitions.
Getting There and Admission Prices
The ground is on Kingsey Road, Thame, Oxfordshire, postcode OX9 3JL. It is reasonably straightforward to reach by car, with the M40 providing access from further afield.
There is parking on site, including overflow parking, although the main car park can fill up on matchdays. Arrive early and follow the club's directions rather than trying to find a space in the surrounding residential streets.
Public transport requires a little more planning, as Thame does not have its own railway station. Haddenham & Thame Parkway is the nearest mainline station, with onward travel needed to reach the ground.
Admission prices are considerably more reasonable than at many of the larger clubs. Matchday prices are around £20–£22 for adults, with concessions cheaper and under-10s admitted free. Buying in advance can save money, so check the prices for your particular fixture before travelling.
Parking has typically cost £5 per car for non-members, with concessions for certain membership and hospitality categories.
Food and Drink
One of Chinnor's strengths is the effort put into its matchday catering. Rather than relying entirely on the usual stadium fare, the club has brought in a variety of food vendors, with options including burgers, fish and chips, wood-fired pizza and crepes.There are several bars around the ground, and the clubhouse provides a social hub before and after the match. It is very much a place where supporters can enjoy a drink, have a bite to eat and talk rugby without feeling that they need to rush off as soon as the final whistle sounds.
Dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on a lead, another little indication of the club's community spirit.
Atmosphere
Chinnor offers a friendly, informal rugby experience. The crowds are smaller than those at the established giants of the Championship, but there is enthusiasm for the club's progress and a sense that supporters are watching something being built rather than simply maintaining the status quo.
The arrival of bigger visiting clubs has helped raise the profile of the ground, and the club's ambitions suggest that further improvements are on the way.
The Verdict
Chinnor is an appealing example of a traditional rugby club moving into a bigger league without forgetting its roots. The facilities are still developing, but the welcoming atmosphere, improving food offering and relatively sensible admission prices make it an enjoyable place to watch rugby.
It may not have the grandeur of some Premiership grounds or the history of some of the country's oldest grounds, but it doesn't need to. Kingsey Road offers a more intimate experience, and the club's plans for the future make it an interesting one to keep an eye on.
Old Moaner's verdict: Good, honest rugby, decent food and prices that won't require a second mortgage. Long may the club retain that spirit as it continues to grow.
Prices correct as at September 2026
Return to England Rugby home page