From a small village in Northamptonshire, Irchester United were one of our very first opponents in senior football. The Romans, at the time, were actually called Irchester Eastfield; changing the name in 1980 after an apparent merger with Wellingborough Eastfield. It wasn’t until 1990 after we’d long since gone our two different ways that they went back to calling themselves United.
First and foremost, it’s essential to remember that Boro’ came to know the Romans as Irchester Eastfield; the name under which the club went during the 1980s. Otherwise, it’ll be Irchester United to you (and we thank you for noting that). In fact, we have to throw another name into the mix. That’s because we’re told that, originally, they formed as Irchester Excelsior in 1883. They changed name to United two years after; sticking with it ever since… but for that 1980s expedition to the East.
The club aren’t the most well-known in the country, let’s be frank. In 1896, the Northamptonshire League was their first port of call; propping up Division Two in their first campaign. So, immediately they were out of the door. The late 1920s delivered title success in the Rushden & District League, while there was a bit of minor cup joy too. In 1930, however, they were back in the Northamptonshire League; the competition soon to be renamed the United Counties League.
Don’t go thinking that’s that, however. The Romans’ second spell in the UCL lasted just two seasons and more years in the wilderness followed. By this, we mean the Rushden & District League. And, to be fair, it was a competition that brought more success for them over the coming years. But the lure of the United Counties League was never far away. Lo and behold, they were back on the scene in 1969 and would go on to remain there until as recently as 2021 – when they joined the Spartan South Midlands League.
Mind you, their debut campaign was a disaster and they left to join the Northamptonshire Combination Premier Division in 2022.
How to get to Irchester United – Travel Information – Distance: 49 miles
By Road
Go north on the A1(M) and A1 until you get to the exit for the B1048 and B645. Here, go left and take the B645 towards Higham Ferrers; staying on this road for nearly 16 miles.
At a roundabout, take the third exit onto the A6 for almost a mile. Then, take the second exit at the next roundabout for the A45. You’ll cross a railway bridge after four miles. Be aware, however, as the next left – Chester Road – is what you want. Continue down the High Street, before turning right for the B569. After 0.3 miles, turn right for Alfred Street.
The car park at the ground might be a bit tight. But it’s always worth a quick look before you resort to street parking.
By Rail
A railway line skirts around the eastern fringe of Irchester. And there’s a Station Road in the village. But these count for nothing, sadly. So, no train trip for you here.
