The Twickenham Stoop, located in south-west London, is the intimate and beloved home of the renowned rugby union club, Harlequins. A short stroll from its much larger neighbour, Twickenham Stadium, the Stoop is celebrated for its close-to-the-action feel and vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. More than just a stadium, it is a key part of the local community and a must-visit for any rugby fan looking for an authentic match-day experience.
History and Design
Originally known as the Harlequins’ new ground, the stadium was officially opened in 1963. It was later named the Twickenham Stoop Memorial Ground in honour of Adrian Stoop, a former England international and club president. The stadium has undergone a number of redevelopments over the years to increase its capacity and improve facilities.
Despite these modernizations, the Stoop has retained its traditional, four-sided layout, with each stand having its own unique character. This design keeps fans exceptionally close to the pitch, creating a powerful and immersive atmosphere that is often missing from larger, more modern stadiums.
Major Events Hosted
While its primary purpose is to host Harlequins’ home matches in the Gallagher Premiership and European competitions, the Twickenham Stoop has a rich history of hosting a variety of other high-profile events.
- International Rugby: The stadium has been a host for England women’s rugby matches as well as international age-grade fixtures and Sevens tournaments. It also hosted the 2010 Women’s Rugby World Cup Final between England and New Zealand.
- Rugby League: The Stoop was the former home of the London Broncos rugby league team and hosted the second match of the 2009 Rugby League Four Nations between New Zealand and Australia.
- Other Sporting Fixtures: The venue has also hosted other sports, including American football and lacrosse, cementing its reputation as a versatile multi-sport venue.
Key Information
Official Name: The Twickenham Stoop
Location: Twickenham, London, UK
Opened: 1963
Capacity: 14,800
Primary Tenant: Harlequins Rugby Union Club (Premiership Rugby)
Address: Langhorn Drive, Twickenham, TW2 7SX, UK
Getting to The Twickenham Stoop
The stadium is located in a residential area and is best accessed via public transport. It is conveniently located and easily accessible.
- By Air: For visitors traveling from out of town, the nearest airports are London Heathrow (LHR), which is a short taxi ride away, or Gatwick (LGW). You can get a direct train to London and change for a train to Twickenham.
- By Train: This is the most recommended way to get to the venue. The stadium is just a 10-15 minute walk from Twickenham Station, which has direct train services from London Waterloo, Richmond, and other major stations.
- By Bus: A number of bus routes serve the area, with stops on the London Road and Staines Road, both of which are a short walk from the stadium.
- By Car & Parking: Driving to the stadium on a match day is highly discouraged due to traffic congestion and extremely limited on-site parking. There are a number of public car parks in the city centre within walking distance.
Tickets & Tours at The Twickenham Stoop
Harlequin Rugby Tickets
Tickets for Harlequins’ home matches can be purchased through the official Harlequins ticket website. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially for high-profile matches or derby games, as tickets can sell out quickly.
Tours
Guided tours of the Twickenham Stoop are generally not offered due to its size and regular use as a working stadium. However, a guided tour of the larger Twickenham Stadium next door is a popular alternative for those wanting a behind-the-scenes rugby experience.
Where to Stay Near The Twickenham Stoop
Staying in the heart of Twickenham or nearby Richmond is the best way to experience the area and provides convenient access to the stadium. Both areas offer a wide range of accommodation, from well-known hotels to charming guesthouses.
- Booking Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Book your accommodation and tickets well in advance, especially for popular match days or during peak tourist season.
- Check Transport: Both Twickenham and Richmond are highly walkable, so staying anywhere in the town centre will likely put you within walking distance of the stadium and all the main attractions.
- Use Reputable Sites: Use well-known and trustworthy booking websites like TripAdvisor to find and compare accommodation options.
Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to the Twickenham Stoop
- Official Harlequins Website
- Official Harlequins ticket website
- Transport for London
- Visit Richmond Official Site
- Trainline
We hope this guide helps you have an incredible experience at The Twickenham Stoop!
Last Updated on September 24, 2025 by Sports Tourist