Business Details
Cinderford RFC - Home of Gloucestershire Rugby Excellence
Established in 1886, Cinderford RFC has been a cornerstone of rugby in the Forest of Dean. Our club has weathered historical challenges, including post-war declines, to re-emerge as a respected force in national leagues. Over decades, we've nurtured talent that has reached international levels, with players like Freddie Burns and Sam Underhill gaining professional experience through our dual-registration partnerships. Our senior teams compete at high levels, while our comprehensive youth and ladies' sections ensure rugby remains accessible to all ages and genders. With a coaching team combining professional experience and local expertise, we maintain a strong community focus.Our facilities at the Beavis Memorial Ground host regular matches, social events, and function hires, embodying our commitment to both sport and local engagement. Through periods of relegation and promotion, our dedication to rugby excellence has remained unwavering. Today, we continue developing future talent while preserving our rich heritage. Our volunteer-driven operations and extensive mini-junior programs reflect our deep-rooted community connections.
Services
Senior XV
United XV
Stags XV
Mini & Junior Sections
Ladies/Girls Rugby
Matchday Hospitality
Facility Hire
Youth Coaching
Community Programs
Rugby Development
Highlights and features
- We have over 130 years of rugby tradition in the Forest of Dean
- Developed international players through dual-registration programs
- Comprehensive youth development from Under 7s to Colts
- Experienced coaching team with professional rugby backgrounds
- Community-focused club with strong local ties since 1886
What people say
Strong youth development
Competitive senior teams
Community-focused
Well-maintained facilities
Experienced coaching staff
Services
Senior XV
Competing in National League 1, our premier team showcases elite rugby with professional coaching and facilities. Former players have progressed to international levels, demonstrating our development capabilities. The squad maintains a strong community connection while pursuing competitive success.
United XV
Playing in the Tribute Western North division, this team develops emerging talent while maintaining competitive standards. Regular match schedules and experienced coaching ensure player progression and community engagement through local fixtures.
Stags XV
Competing in Gloucestershire North leagues, our third team provides accessible rugby for local players. Structured training and match programs support skill development while maintaining the club's competitive ethos at grassroots level.
Mini & Junior Sections
Comprehensive programs from Under 7s to Colts develop future talent through age-appropriate coaching. Qualified staff deliver structured pathways while emphasizing enjoyment, safety, and fundamental rugby skills in a supportive environment.
Ladies/Girls Rugby
Dedicated sections for U13, U15, and U18 girls' teams provide tailored development opportunities. Experienced coaching and competitive fixtures encourage female participation in rugby at all levels from beginner to elite.
People
Peter Bell
Club President
Leading the club with extensive local business experience, Peter provides strategic direction while maintaining strong community connections through his involvement with KW Bell Ltd.
Paul Morris
Director of Rugby
Former professional player with Gloucester and England Saxons, Paul brings elite rugby expertise to player development and team strategy across all age groups.
Clive Stuart-Smith
Head Coach
Experienced former international player and coach, Clive oversees technical development with a focus on transitioning youth players to senior competition standards.
Robert Beavis
Treasurer
With decades of financial management experience, Robert ensures the club's fiscal stability while maintaining continuity through his long family association with the club.
Paul Lydiard
Girls Rugby Lead
Specialising in youth development, Paul coordinates girls' programs with 15+ years of coaching experience, fostering female participation in rugby at all levels.
Questions
What age groups do your rugby programs cover?
We offer programs from Under 7s through to Colts and adult teams, plus girls' sections from U13 to U18.
Can I hire the club facilities for events?
Yes, function rooms are available - contact the clubhouse directly for availability and bookings.
What leagues do your senior teams play in?
First XV competes in National League 1, United in Tribute Western North, and Stags in Gloucestershire North.
Reviews (6)
Jason Turner
Oct 22, 2021
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Visited the club on a busy match day as part of a large reunion party. We received the warmest of welcomes from the club and hospitality team. The service behind the bar was prompt and friendly. The quality of the buffet spread received was second to none. I would highly recommend Cinderford RFC as a venue for any function or party. The service and quality of food and drink is excellent and the club is clean and tidy. Thank you again to all those involved in helping make our reunion day a huge success.
Kath
Dec 10, 2020
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Staff are nice, clean and well presented club, went for a child's birthday party in the hall which was really good
Gaynor Preston-Routedge
Oct 03, 2019
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Good club, apart from I have a service dog
The club has a policy of no dogs. I had asked permission from the club president to see if a service dog was allowed within the rugby grounds. He gave us permission however I got people coming up to me repeatedly saying I was not allowed in the area where the lads were playing rugby. I even got somebody saying he had never heard of a service dog and went onto say there are only guide dogs. Next season will not be visiting to watch my son and his team play. Good win for you!
The club has a policy of no dogs. I had asked permission from the club president to see if a service dog was allowed within the rugby grounds. He gave us permission however I got people coming up to me repeatedly saying I was not allowed in the area where the lads were playing rugby. I even got somebody saying he had never heard of a service dog and went onto say there are only guide dogs. Next season will not be visiting to watch my son and his team play. Good win for you!
John Evans
Jun 24, 2019
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Excellent, well-run club in the Forest of Dean. Super location for the town and a smart well-appointed club house. Probably really good for functions.
Simon Hughes
Dec 22, 2018
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One of the better club houses in the forest area nicely decorated and well lit and for a change warm. The pitch and facilities are also of a high quality too
Anthony Reid
Sep 23, 2018
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The club I support. Tip. Always take warm clothing, solid footwear and a brolly!!! Very high u see. Excellent craic in the clubhouse. Great team now back in national 1
