Horley Town: Club Directory
Horley Town are a Surrey club with a history reaching back to the nineteenth century. They compete in the Isthmian League South East Division in 2026/27 at Step 4. The club’s claret-and-blue colours and its long association with The Defence ground are important parts of its local identity.
Quick Facts
- Club: Horley Town FC
- Location: Horley, Surrey
- League: Isthmian League South East Division
- Home ground: The Defence
- Club colours: Claret and blue
Club History
Horley’s official history records that the club was first affiliated to Surrey County FA in 1896. In 1908, Horley FC merged with local side Gatwick Rovers, retaining the Horley name. The team adopted the claret-and-blue colours still associated with the club in 1912.
The club entered intermediate football in 1925/26 and gradually moved through local competitions. After the Second World War, it faced the possible loss of its home at the Kings Head ground. A local benefactor, Major A.L.N. Jennings, donated 10.7 acres in Smallfield Road, held in trust for the people of Horley in memory of those who died in the defence of their country. The ground was named The Defence.
Horley Town adopted its present name in 1974 as the village expanded into a town. One of its strongest periods came in 1976/77, when it won the Surrey Senior League title and Challenge Cup. The club later competed in the London Spartan League and Athenian League before returning to the Combined Counties structure and continuing its progression through the pyramid.
The Defence: Ground Guide
The Defence is Horley Town’s home in Smallfield Road, Horley. Its history is linked to the post-war effort to secure a permanent playing home and preserve land for local sport. For current ground directions, entry arrangements, facilities and parking advice, consult the club’s official visitor information before travelling.
Honours and Milestones
- 1896: First affiliation to Surrey County FA recorded.
- 1908: Merger with Gatwick Rovers, with Horley retaining its name.
- 1912: Adopted the claret-and-blue colours.
- 1974: Became Horley Town FC.
- 1976/77: Surrey Senior League champions and Challenge Cup winners.
Matchday Guide
Horley is near Gatwick Airport and has rail connections. Check the club’s website for the latest fixture confirmation, kick-off time and visitor details, and use official information for parking and access arrangements.
Club History and Key Milestones
Horley Town represent the Surrey town close to Gatwick Airport and play at The New Defence. The club has developed through local and county football and is part of the wider non-league scene across Surrey and Sussex.
Ground and Matchday Guide
Check the club’s latest official announcement for the confirmed ground, kick-off time, admission prices and payment methods. Supporters should verify parking and public transport options and plan the return journey after evening fixtures. Older ground names and ticket information can become outdated.
Before You Visit
- Confirm the fixture and kick-off time.
- Check admission and payment details with the club.
- Plan transport and parking before travelling.
- Check official updates for postponements or venue changes.
The New Defence and Horley Football
Horley Town are a Surrey club whose fixtures bring them into the wider non-league network across Surrey, Sussex and the south-east. Their home at The New Defence is the focal point for senior football in the town, and the club’s season is shaped by a mix of local opponents and longer regional trips.
Visitors should confirm the latest ground directions and ticketing information before travelling. Parking, entry arrangements and facilities can vary by fixture, while public transport options should be checked against the actual kick-off and return time. For cup matches and rearranged games, use the latest official club notice rather than relying on an older fixture listing.
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