The last 30 years has seen rugby league leave behind many of its iconic venues with the sport attempting to move into more modern times.
Within those former grounds were decades of unforgettable moments and cherished memories that make up much of British and international rugby league’s early history.
We know times move on and the old crumbling stadiums were always going to be demolished, but it’s still quite sad to see what stands in their place today.
Houses, schools and supermarkets all sit on the land of rugby league foundations, so if you’re a bit sentimental and don’t want to ruin some of your earliest rugby league memories then look away.
Below are ‘then and now’ photos of 13 iconic former RL grounds.
Knowsley Road matchday. Credit: Dave KirkhamKnowsley Road today: Housing estate with five roads named after St Helens legends (Newlove Avenue, Wellens Walk, Sculthorpe Close, Coslett Drive and Cunningham Court)
The Boulevard, Hull (last game: 2002)
The Boulevard in 1999. Credit: Hull FC Supporters TwitterThe Boulevard today: Secondary school (The Boulevard Academy)
Central Park, Wigan (last game: 1999)
Wigan’s former Central Park homeCentral Park today: Tesco supermarket and car park
Fartown Ground, Huddersfield (last game: 1992)
Fartown Ground was built in 1878Fartown today: Amateur rugby field
Old Craven Park, Hull KR (last game: 1989)
Old Craven Park in its final years. Credit: Tiger 2000 FlickrOld Craven Park today: Morrison’s supermarket and car park
Wilderspool Stadium, Warrington (last game: 2003)
Wilderspool Stadium in 2003Wilderspool Stadium today: Grass field (160 homes to be built on the site)
Hilton Park, Leigh (last game: 2008)
Hilton Park, former home of Leigh Centurions. Credit: Russell CoxHilton Park today: Grass field (will be developed into the housing estate pictured)
