The world’s largest rugby union venue, Twickenham Stadium is officially the Home of England Rugby. Games may be played in stadia elsewhere around the country from time to time, but Twickers is to egg-chasing what Wembley is to footie.
The Rugby Football Union bought a cabbage patch in this corner of south-west London in 1907 to build a stadium and held the inaugural match two years later (Harlequins 14, Richmond 10). When the stadium first opened its capacity was 20,000. Today it’s 82,000.
The Twickenham Stadium tour includes a visit to the royal box, the players’ tunnel, a view of the arena from the highest point in the stand, and a pitchside walk. As you stand in the England dressing room, the guide talks you through the typical pre-match preparations before every international game.
The tour ticket also includes a visit to the World Rugby Museum in the east stand of Twickenham Stadium. Here you can see thousands of objects charting the history of and achievements in rugby from its early years to its international profile today. There’s everything from cups to caps, and you can relive great rugby moments on the interactive screens.
There are limited spaces on each tour, so advance booking is recommended. You should also check the website to make sure your visit doesn’t clash with a major event, as the tours are not held on or around match days and when there are concerts planned. However, on these days the museum is usually open for match or event ticketholders.