Durham United are thrilled to announce their participation in the upcoming Easter Groundhop, marking their first year as members of the Ebac Northern League. This renowned event, now in its 25th year, has seen GroundhopUK organise 697 hop matches to date, and the FC Hartlepool v’s Seaham Red Star fixture is set to become the milestone 700th hop match.

The Groundhop stands as a testament to the enduring passion and community spirit of non-league football, offering fans – affectionately known as groundhoppers – the chance to experience multiple games across the region in a condensed period.

Durham United’s Secretary and Team Captain Ollie Williams commented, “We are absolutely delighted to be included in such a fantastic initiative in our debut season. The Groundhop not only showcases the vibrant football culture of the Northern League, but also allows new clubs like ours to welcome supporters from across the country, share our facilities, and build connections within the wider football community.”

League organisers have put together a meticulously planned schedule to ensure seamless travel between venues and ample time for fans to enjoy the hospitality on offer. Matches will be played across five days, enabling clubs to highlight their grounds, programmes, and merchandise for visiting supporters. With 24 clubs taking part and fixtures spread across twelve host venues, the Groundhop provides a unique snapshot of footballing life in the Northern League – from historic village pitches to state-of-the-art grounds.

The festivities begin on Thursday evening with a trip to West Auckland and then moves east-coast on Good Friday, with three matches starting at Grangetown Boys Club, moving on to FC Hartlepool, and concluding at Easington Colliery, home to one of the classic hop venues renowned for its picturesque views. Saturday sees the action shift northwards, kicking off at AFC Newbiggin before visiting Newcastle Blue Star’s impressive new ground and finishing at Tow Law Town, famed as England’s coldest football ground, and home venue to Chris Waddle (1978-80). Sunday features Billingham Town’s local derby against Billingham Synthonia, the eagerly anticipated visit to Crook Town, and concludes with Durham United hosting the final match of the day – an occasion the club is especially excited about as a new league member. The marathon wraps up on Easter Monday at Jarrow, finishing with the Sunderland derby between Sunderland West End and Sunderland RCA.

League officials have praised the enthusiasm and commitment shown by participating clubs. Chairman Glenn Youngman commented, “The Easter Groundhop is a wonderful celebration of everything that makes our league special. It’s a chance for supporters to experience the warmth and character of our clubs, enjoy great football, and be part of a community that shares a genuine love for the game.”

Durham United’s involvement in this year’s Groundhop reflects the club’s ambition and excitement at joining the Ebac Northern League. With the 2026 edition set to be the biggest and most accessible yet, it promises five days of grassroots football at its finest, and Durham United are proud to play their part in this remarkable sporting tradition.

Northern Easter ’26 GroundhopUK – Fixture Schedule
Thursday 2nd April 2026
19:30 – West Auckland Town v Thornaby     
Friday 3rd April 2026
11:00 – Grangetown Boys Club v Redcar Town
14:30 – FC Hartlepool v Seaham Red Star
18:00 – Easington Colliery v Horden CW
Saturday 4th April 2026
11:00 – AFC Newbiggin v Alnwick Town
14:30 – Newcastle Blue Star v Carlisle City
18:30 – Tow Law Town v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
Sunday 5th April 2026
11:00 – Darlington Town v Yarm & Eaglescliffe
14:30 – Shildon v Crook Town
18:30 – DURHAM UNITED v ESH WINNING
Monday 6th April 2026
11:00 – Jarrow v Boldon CA
14:30 – Sunderland West End v Sunderland RCA