We are a museum of international rugby history, holding the most extensive collection of rugby football memorabilia in the world, including over 41,000 recorded objects, 16,500 pieces of archival material and 11,300 photographs.
The most significant item in the textile collection, is JH Clayton's jersey from the first ever international in 1871. Other jerseys of first rate importance include a rare and emblematic 1905 All Blacks example and a De Coubertin era French model. Highlights of the cap collection include a fine selection of 19th century international caps and some wonderful early examples from Rugby School.
Our archive material dates from the mid-nineteenth century to the present day and spans the history of rugby from its amateur origins through to materials which reflect the game in its present professionalised form. Our collection is the world's leading resource of research material for charting the history of the game.
Of outstanding archival importance are the game's first written laws which, together with the RFU's minutes, date from 1871. The RFU's minutes form undoubtedly the single most important, continuous archive in rugby's history. They give a unique insight and perspective into every major issue and development the sport has seen. The archive is complemented by over 9,500 photographs, beginning with 'A Bigside at Rugby' which dates from 1860 and is the first known photograph of the sport, through to the current day.
Pre-eminent amongst the Museum's trophy collection is the exquisite Calcutta Cup. This is rugby's oldest and most beautiful international trophy. The Calcutta Cup is complemented by many other fine examples, including the Siam Cup and the replica Webb-Ellis trophy awarded to England following their 2003 Rugby World Cup victory.
Our fine and decorative art collections include oils and watercolours, charcoal, pastel and ink drawings, bronze sculptures and plaster casts. We have a number of gifts and trophies given to the RFU over the organisation's long history. The significance of these objects to our collection is both historical and aesthetic, giving an insight into the development of rugby across the world and a window on different cultures.
Our collection of approximately 650 posters and prints span from the nineteenth century to the present day and include some classic London Transport and wartime recruitment posters. Included in this collection is a beautiful, original study by Dame Laura Knight and some wonderful early typographical examples.
We also have a large range of ephemera, including tickets, dinner menus and programmes.
Test your kicking, speed, agility, power, strength and endurance in the World Rugby Museum's 'Play Rugby Interactive Zone' to find out 'What Kind of Rugby Player Are You?' suitable for all ages.
Rugby players come in all shapes and sizes, from powerful centres, to strong forwards, speedy wingers and agile full-backs - there is a position for everyone.
Want to find out what it's like to be an elite rugby coach, referee or physiotherapist? In the Rugby Pathways interactive you can hear from the experts supporting England Rugby behind the scenes on their exciting careers and discover how you can get involved too.
