The best non-league football teams to follow

The Premier League has a tendency to dominate the headlines (and get the most screen time). But more fans than ever are starting to follow non-league football teams for their community-driven experience and authentic feel. So whether you’re already a follower of football or just prefer games like bingo, there’s still lots to experience.

In this article, we look at some of the top non-league football teams to follow. Read on to find out what they are!

Blyth Spartans AFC

We’ll start off strong with one of the most well-recognised names in non-league football: Blyth Spartans FC. Located in the North East in Northumberland, this club has a strong (and storied) history that dates all the way back to 1899.

The club is probably best known for their FA Cup run between 1977-78. Achieving the Fifth Round (so nearly making it to the quarter-finals), they still have a loyal following, with many fans making it to matches at their home ground of Croft Park.

Woking FC

Another fixture in non-league football is Woking FC. Based in Surrey, “The Cardinals” have been known for being consistently competitive with a dedicated fan base and strong community presence.

Head to Kingfield Stadium if you want to have a watch of one of their matches.

York City FC

York City FC used to be a football league regular. Now playing in National League North, its fanbase and following has endured to witness some real highs and lows, including a history of multiple trips to Wembley and a 2012 FA Trophy win.

If you’re looking for a team that’s ambitious and wants to make its move back up the ranks, York City are definitely ones to follow.

Dulwich Hamlet FC

Founded all the way back in 1893, South London’s Dulwich Hamlet FC are one of the oldest or the non-league football teams on this list and have a fantastic history to jump into.

Playing at their historic Champion Hill ground, the club have had some success throughout their 130 year history but are just as known for their progressive politics and inclusive matchday culture. Openly supporting anti-racism, pro-refugee and LGBTQ+ rights, they welcome a diverse fanbase while embracing community values.

FC United of Manchester

FC United of Manchester has one of the more interesting stories of teams on this list. Formed in 2005 by supporters of Manchester United who were against the Glazer family’s takeover of the club, United of Manchester is fan owned and built on community inclusion and a rejection of the idea of the sport’s commercialisation.

They’re known for their involvement in youth projects, outreach programmes and food banks and have inspired the formation of many other fan-led clubs across the UK.

Sestao River Club

Next, we head to Spain to a town in the Basque Country. Sestao River Club was founded back in 1996 and has been a source of pride for the local community ever since. You can experience their team at a match at Estadio Las Llanas with around 8,000 other fans celebrating the game and the town’s working-class culture.

Pontevedra CF

Another football club in Spain to keep an eye on is Pontevedra Club de Fútbol — also known as Pontevedra CF. Founded back in 1941, this club actually made its way up Spain’s top football division (La Liga) during the 1960s. Now back in the third tier of Spanish football, the club remains a symbol of pride for the city of Pontevdra and an entertaining watch for fans.

FC Halifax Town

Based in the town of Halifax, West Yorkshire, FC Halifax Town was only founded in 2008 but has gone from strength to strength ever since. Known as “The Shaymen”, they share a home ground at The Shay with the Halifax Panthers rugby league team. Their recent success includes winning the FA Trophy during the 2015-16 and 2022-23 seasons, as well as 5th place in the 2024-25 National League season.

Stockport County Football Club

Finally, there’s Stockport County Football Club. With its history dating all the way back to 1883, it's one of the non-league football teams that are currently on the rise. Stockport County Football Club have made it to the National League having won the Vanarama National League North Title.

They have one of the most loyal fan bases out there, as well as one of the largest non-league stadiums; Edgeley Park has a capacity of over 10,000!