A lively, medium-sized town in Warwickshire, with a population of around 65,000. It is home to the game of Rugby Football, where the sport began in 1823. Rugby School, where the game originated is still used for matches to this day. Enthusiasts from all over the world visit to see the statue of William Webb Ellis and read the famous words on the commemoration plaque at Rugby School Close.
Rugby School itself dominates much of the centre and south of the town. It was the subject of the famous Thomas Hughes novel 'Tom Brown's School Days'. The changes put into place by the famous Dr Arnold during this period, were much admired and copied, and are largely responsible for the pre-eminence of the British public schools.
A fairly recent addition to the town was the statue of William Webb Ellis sculpted by Graham Ibbeson and unveiled in 1997 by Jeremy Guscott, the former England and Lions player.
The town can be easily reached, being at the centre of the English road and rail networks, and is a must for all followers of the oval ball.