The Early Years (1879–1896)

Harlow Town Football Club was founded in 1879 and played its first recorded match on 18 October that year against Saffron Walden. In its earliest years, the club was known simply as Harlow and played friendly matches against local opposition, helping establish football as a growing part of the local community.

For nearly two decades, these fixtures formed the backbone of the club’s existence until the introduction of organised league football in the area.

League Football and Identity (1896–1931)

The formation of the East Herts League in 1896 marked a significant step forward, bringing structured competition and regular league football to the club.

In 1898, Harlow merged with Netteswell and Burnt Mill, becoming Harlow and Burnt Mill F.C. This arrangement was short-lived, and in 1902 the merger was reversed, with the club returning to its original identity — a name that has endured ever since.

Senior Status and National Competition (1932–1953)

In 1932, the club joined the Spartan League, and five years later, in 1937, Harlow Town was granted Senior Status. This milestone allowed the club to compete in the FA Cup and Essex Senior Cup for the first time.

At the time, Harlow had one of the smallest populations represented at senior football level, making this achievement particularly notable and reflective of the club’s ambition and determination.

A Growing Town, A Growing Club (1954–1959)

As Harlow developed rapidly following its designation as a New Town in the early 1950s, the football club progressed alongside it. In 1954, Harlow Town joined the Premier Division of the London League, continuing its steady rise within non-league football.

The Sportcentre Era (1960–1991)

The move to the Sportcentre on Hammarskjold Road in 1960 marked one of the most significant chapters in the club’s history. That same year, Harlow Town lifted the London League Cup, signalling the start of a memorable era.

The quality of the facilities attracted top-level opposition. In July 1966, Harlow hosted Uruguay as they prepared for the FIFA World Cup. Two years later, Benfica trained at the Sportcentre ahead of the European Cup Final, featuring legendary striker Eusébio.

League success followed, including winning Division One of the Athenian League in 1971–72, earning promotion to the Premier Division.

The Famous FA Cup Run (1979–80)

The 1979–80 FA Cup campaign remains the club’s most celebrated achievement. Entering at the preliminary stage, Harlow Town defeated a series of opponents before reaching the first round proper for the first time.

Victories over Southend United and Leicester City captured national attention. The replay win against Leicester City at the Sportcentre, watched by a club-record crowd of 9,723, remains one of the greatest nights in the club’s history. The run ended in the fourth round with a narrow defeat away to Watford.

Challenges and Recovery (1981–2005)

The years that followed brought both promotion and relegation, reflecting the competitive nature of non-league football. Despite periods of difficulty, the club consistently found ways to return and rebuild.

In the early 1990s, plans to relocate from the Sportcentre collapsed, and the ground temporarily failed to meet league requirements. After a brief absence from competition, the club returned following ground upgrades and gradually worked its way back through the leagues.

A New Home at Barrow’s Farm (2006)

In October 2006, Harlow Town moved to its current home at Barrow’s Farm, marking a new chapter in the club’s long history. Promotion followed in the 2006–07 season via the play-offs, demonstrating once again the club’s resilience and ambition.

Preserving the Story

Harlow Town Football Club’s history is one of longevity, resilience, and community pride. From its 19th-century beginnings to famous FA Cup nights and international visitors, the club’s journey reflects the passion of players, officials, and supporters across generations.

This supporters’ site is committed to preserving and celebrating that history accurately. Where records are incomplete or disputed, updates will be made only once verified — ensuring the story of Harlow Town is told with honesty and respect.