Scottish National League Division One
The Scottish National League Division One, currently known as the Arnold Clark National League Division 1 for sponsorship reasons, serves as the second tier of the Scottish League Championship. This competition is designed for amateur rugby union clubs across Scotland, providing a critical competitive bridge between regional play and the top-flight Premiership.
While the league's roots date back to 1973, its current structure was established in 2014. This reorganization created three national leagues positioned below the Premiership to streamline the path to the top of the Scottish rugby pyramid.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1973
- Pyramid Level: 2
- Number of Teams: 10 (reduced from 12 for the 2023–24 season)
- Promotion: Winners advance to the Premiership
- Relegation: Bottom teams drop to National League Division Two
- Domestic Cup: Participating teams compete in the Scottish Cup
- Most Titles: Kelso and Stirling County (5 titles each)
League Structure and Evolution
The division has undergone several name changes and structural shifts over the decades. From 1973 to 1995, it was known as National League Division Two, followed by Premiership Division Two from 1996 to 2012. A brief period as the National League occurred in 2013–14 before it adopted the National League Division One title in 2015.
The league's current format emphasizes a lean, highly competitive environment. For the 2023–24 season, the number of participating teams was reduced from 12 to 10 to increase the quality of competition.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]The 2025–26 Season Lineup
The composition of the league shifts annually based on performance. For the 2025–26 season, GHA departed the division after earning promotion to the Scottish Premiership. Conversely, Highland, Dundee, and Peebles were relegated to National League Division 2.
New entries for the season include Gordonians, who earned promotion as the 1st place team from the 2024–25 National League Division 2. Additionally, Marr, Edinburgh Academical, and Musselburgh joined the division following their relegation from the 2024–25 Scottish Premiership.
Current Participating Clubs
| Club | Location | Home Ground |
|---|---|---|
| Biggar | Biggar | Hartree Mill |
| Boroughmuir | Edinburgh | Meggetland |
| Edinburgh Academical | Edinburgh | Raeburn Place |
| Gala | Galashiels | Netherdale |
| Glasgow Academicals | Glasgow | New Anniesland |
| Gordonians | Aberdeen | Countesswells |
| Jed-Forest | Jedburgh | Riverside Park |
| Marr | Troon | Fullarton Park |
| Musselburgh | Musselburgh | Stoneyhill |
| Stirling County | Stirling | Bridgehaugh Park |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Scottish National League Division One?
It is the second tier of the Scottish League Championship for amateur rugby union clubs in Scotland, acting as the level immediately below the Premiership.
How does promotion and relegation work in this division?
The winners of the division are promoted to the Premiership, while the lowest-ranked teams are relegated to National League Division Two.
Which clubs have won the most titles in the second tier?
Kelso and Stirling County hold the record for the most titles, with 5 championships each.
Who is the most recent champion of the league?
Edinburgh Academical is the most recent champion, securing their 4th title.
What domestic cup do these teams compete in?
Clubs in this division participate in the Scottish Cup.