Club Overview
Atherton Collieries AFC, known as the Colls, were formed in 1916 by miners from the six pits operating in Atherton. Based at Alder House, the club has retained a strong connection to its industrial roots while progressing through the non-league pyramid. In 2026/27, the Colls compete in the Northern Premier League West Division at Step 4.
Quick Facts
Founded: 1916
Nickname: The Colls
Ground: Alder House
Location: Atherton, Greater Manchester
League: Northern Premier League West Division, Step 4
Official website: athertoncollieries.co.uk
Club History
The club was established by local miners during the First World War as a source of community activity. Following nationalisation of the pits, the club was gifted to the people of Atherton. The Colls became founder members of the North West Counties Football League in 1982, where they remained for decades before promotion to the Northern Premier League in 2017.
That promotion was a landmark moment, taking Atherton into a higher level of the pyramid and beginning a period in which the club competed at Step 3. The 2026/27 season brings the Colls back to the NPL West Division, with Alder House still central to the club’s identity.
Honours and Milestones
- Founded in 1916 by local miners.
- Founder members of the North West Counties League in 1982.
- Promoted into the Northern Premier League in 2017.
- More than a century of association with Alder House and the Atherton community.
Alder House: Ground Guide
Alder House is one of the defining features of the Colls’ identity, with a long history as the club’s home. Facilities have developed over time while retaining the feel of a traditional community ground. Check the official club website for the latest directions, admission, parking, accessibility and refreshments information.
Regional Context and Matchday
Atherton’s Greater Manchester location creates natural local interest in fixtures against clubs from Lancashire and the north-west. League allocations and cup draws determine the regular contests each season.
- Confirm kick-off and admission details through official channels.
- Check directions and parking arrangements for Alder House.
- Review accessibility and visiting-supporter information before travelling.
- Follow club updates for matchday facilities and refreshments.
Club History and Identity
Atherton Collieries grew from the area’s mining and industrial heritage and have long represented the Atherton community. The club’s name reflects its historical association with the collieries; check official club records for a full honours timeline.
Ground and Visitor Information
Home ground: Alder House. Confirm the latest fixture details, admission arrangements, access information and any parking guidance directly with the club before travelling. Venue details can change, and older directory listings may not reflect the current arrangements.
Matchday Checklist
- Check the fixture and kick-off time on the club’s official update.
- Confirm current admission prices and payment methods.
- Plan the outward and return journeys.
- Check for postponements, venue changes or special access instructions before leaving.
NonLeagueReview
The Colls’ mining origins give them a distinctive story in non-league football. Alder House connects that history with the present as Atherton Collieries take on another season in the NPL West Division.
Sources and Further Reading
Getting There and Access
Use the current ground name, Alder House, and the address listed in the Quick Facts section above when planning your journey. Check the club’s latest directions before setting off, as access points, parking arrangements and local restrictions can change. If travelling by public transport, verify current services and the return journey, particularly for evening fixtures.
Before You Visit
- Confirm the fixture is on and check the kick-off time.
- Check current admission prices, payment methods and turnstile opening times with the club.
- Review parking, accessibility and public transport details for the chosen match.
- Check official club updates on matchday for postponements or changes.
Mining Heritage and the Colls Identity
Atherton Collieries were formed in 1916 and their name reflects the area’s coal-mining heritage. The club developed from local working-community football into a regular presence in the non-league pyramid, and that industrial background remains an important part of its identity.
Alder House is the Colls’ home. Visitors should check current admission, entry and parking information before travelling, especially for cup matches or fixtures likely to draw a larger crowd. The club’s official channels are the best source for current facilities and any changes to matchday arrangements.