London is more than just a hub of culture, history, and architecture — it’s also the beating heart of English football.
The city proudly hosts an extraordinary variety of football clubs, representing every tier of the English league system.
From global heavyweights like Arsenal and Chelsea to resilient underdogs such as Charlton Athletic and Sutton United, each team contributes to London’s vibrant and diverse football heritage.
Let’s take a closer look at all 18 professional football clubs that call London home in 2025.
London Football Teams by Division (2025–26 Season)
Below is a breakdown of London’s professional football clubs by division — showing how deeply the capital city’s influence runs across the English football pyramid:
🔴 Premier League: Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, West Ham, Fulham, Brentford, Crystal Palace
🔵 Championship: Millwall, Queens Park Rangers (QPR), Charlton Athletic
🟢 League One: AFC Wimbledon, Leyton Orient
🟡 League Two: Barnet, Bromley
🟠 National League/South: Sutton United, Dagenham & Redbridge, Wealdstone, Welling United
Each club’s stadium is a landmark in its own right, hosting thousands of passionate fans who embody the spirit of London football.
Chelsea FC – The Pride of West London
Established in 1905 and based in Fulham, Chelsea FC is one of the most successful football clubs in modern English history.
They play their home matches at Stamford Bridge, an iconic stadium that has witnessed numerous domestic and European triumphs.
Known for their famous blue kit and world-class signings, Chelsea continue to be a dominant force both on and off the pitch.
Tottenham Hotspur – The North London Contenders
Founded in 1882, Tottenham Hotspur—affectionately called “Spurs”—has long been a cornerstone of North London’s football culture.
Their state-of-the-art Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is one of the most modern venues in world football.
Though yet to lift a Premier League title, Spurs’ rich history in cup competitions and their loyal global following make them a powerhouse in English football.
Arsenal FC – The Gunners’ Legacy
Arsenal, one of London’s oldest and most decorated clubs, boasts 13 league titles and a record 14 FA Cups.
Playing at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal are renowned for their fluid, attacking style and their contribution to football history.
Legendary figures like Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, and Patrick Vieira have all donned the red and white jersey.
Fulham FC – London’s Oldest Club
Founded in 1879, Fulham is one of London’s most historic teams. Their home ground, Craven Cottage, offers old-school charm by the Thames.
Known for their fluctuating stints between the Premier League and Championship, Fulham have built a reputation for resilience and player development.
Crystal Palace – The Eagles of South London
Based at Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace have become synonymous with passion and atmosphere.
Established in 1906, the club’s energetic fanbase and attacking football have made them a permanent fixture in the Premier League in recent years.
Charlton Athletic – The Community’s Club
Founded in 1905, Charlton Athletic play at The Valley in South East London. While their top-flight days have come and gone, Charlton remain one of London’s most respected clubs, admired for their commitment to the community and youth development.
Millwall FC – The Lions of The Den
Established in 1885, Millwall are renowned for their fearless attitude and passionate supporters. Their home, The Den, is known for its intimidating atmosphere. Competing in the Championship, Millwall embodies working-class football heritage with pride.
Queens Park Rangers – The Hoops of West London
QPR, founded in 1882, play at Loftus Road and are recognized for their blue and white hooped shirts. With a rich history of attacking football and memorable campaigns, QPR remain a key representative of London football in the Championship.
Brentford FC – The Data-Driven Bees
Founded in 1889, Brentford has become one of London’s most admired modern success stories. Their Brentford Community Stadium symbolizes their rise from lower-league obscurity to Premier League stability. Their smart, analytics-based recruitment model has earned them widespread praise.
West Ham United – The Hammers of East London
Formed in 1895, West Ham United play at the London Stadium and are famed for producing football legends through their academy, famously dubbed “The Academy of Football.”
With a fiercely loyal fanbase and several major honours, the Hammers remain one of the capital’s most iconic sides.
Watford FC – The Fringe of London Football
Although geographically based in Hertfordshire, Watford shares a deep footballing connection with London.
Founded in 1881, they play at Vicarage Road and are known for their passionate supporters and frequent promotions to the Premier League.
Barnet FC – The Bees of North London
Established in 1888, Barnet compete primarily in the lower tiers but enjoy unwavering support.
Their stadium, The Hive, doubles as a community hub, reflecting the club’s close ties with local fans.
Dagenham & Redbridge – East London’s Battlers
Formed through a merger in 1992, Dagenham & Redbridge currently play in the National League at Victoria Road. Despite financial challenges, they maintain a proud tradition of developing talent and playing attacking football.
Sutton United – The South London Underdogs
Founded in 1898, Sutton United play at Gander Green Lane and are celebrated for their giant-killing FA Cup runs. Their rise to the English Football League in 2021 marked a milestone in the club’s proud history.
Bromley FC – The National League Hopefuls
Bromley, founded in 1892, has steadily climbed the English football ladder. Their home, Hayes Lane, attracts a dedicated local following. The club’s recent success in non-league football highlights their determination and ambition.
Wealdstone FC – The Raiders of Harrow
Formed in 1899, Wealdstone play at Grosvenor Vale and are remembered for their historic 1980s triumphs, including becoming the first club to win both the FA Trophy and the Alliance Premier League. Their fan group, the Wealdstone Raiders, has achieved cult status online.
Welling United – The Wings of South East London
Founded in 1963, Welling United play at Park View Road and are well-known in non-league circles. Despite financial constraints, their underdog resilience and community spirit make them a beloved club in South London.
AFC Wimbledon – The Phoenix Club
Formed in 2002 following the relocation of Wimbledon FC to Milton Keynes, AFC Wimbledon symbolizes the power of fan ownership and determination.
Their journey from grassroots football to League Two has become one of English football’s most inspiring stories.
FAQ
Which Is The Oldest Football Club In London?
Fulham Football Club, founded in 1879, is recognized as the oldest professional football club in London.
Which London Club Has Won The Most Trophies?
Arsenal holds the record for the most major trophies among London clubs, including 13 league titles and 14 FA Cups.
What Is The Biggest Football Stadium In London?
The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with a capacity of around 62,850, is currently the largest club football stadium in London.
Which London Football Clubs Play In The Championship?
The Championship sides from London for the 2025 season are Millwall, Charlton Athletic, and Queens Park Rangers (QPR).
Are There Any New London Clubs Rising Through The Leagues?
Yes. Bromley and Sutton United have been among the fast-rising teams in recent years, earning promotions and recognition for their community-driven success.
Which London club Is Considered The Most Successful In Europe?
Chelsea stands as London’s most successful European club, with two UEFA Champions League titles and multiple UEFA trophies to their name.
Do All London Clubs Have Their Own Stadiums?
Yes. Every major London club has its own dedicated stadium, from Arsenal’s Emirates and West Ham’s London Stadium to Brentford’s Community Stadium and Fulham’s Craven Cottage.
Which London Club Has The Most Passionate Fanbase?
Fan passion is subjective, but clubs like Arsenal, West Ham, Millwall, and Crystal Palace are often celebrated for their incredibly loyal and vocal supporters.