Gillingham Football Club, known affectionately as “The Gills,” is one of the most respected and enduring names in Kent football. Founded in 1893 and based in the historic town of Gillingham, the club carries a long-standing connection to the local community and has long been a proud representative of the county in the Football League.
As the only Kent-based club to play in the Football League for the majority of its history, Gillingham holds a special place in English football. From dramatic promotions to hard-fought survival battles, the Gills' story is one of perseverance, loyal support, and regional pride that transcends divisions.
Historic Gillingham Moments
Gillingham entered the Football League in 1920 as founder members of the Third Division, solidifying their status as a professional outfit. Although they briefly dropped out of the League in 1938, their return in 1950 marked the beginning of a continuous journey through the English football system.
One of the club’s finest hours came in the 1999/2000 season when Gillingham secured promotion to the second tier — the highest level they have ever played at. It was a remarkable achievement, especially for a club traditionally associated with the lower divisions. The Gills held their own in the Championship for several seasons, a period that remains the pinnacle of their league success to date.
Throughout their history, Gillingham have built a reputation as a formidable opponent in cup competitions and as a team known for its fighting spirit, particularly at home. Their resilience, especially at Priestfield, has earned them admiration across the footballing landscape.
Memorable Moments
Few matches in Gillingham’s history are as iconic as the 2000 play-off final against Wigan Athletic at Wembley. After narrowly missing out the year before in heartbreaking fashion, the Gills returned with determination. They triumphed 3–2 after extra time in a thrilling contest, finally earning their place in the second tier for the first time.
Another unforgettable fixture was the 1999 play-off final against Manchester City, where Gillingham led 2–0 late in the game before City mounted a dramatic comeback to force penalties. Though the result was cruel, it was a showcase of the club’s ability to challenge big names on a grand stage — and served as motivation for the success that followed just a year later.
Stadium Atmosphere
Priestfield Stadium has been Gillingham’s home since 1893, and despite its modest size, it is renowned for its intense and passionate atmosphere. With a capacity of around 11,000, the stadium is compact and loud — especially when filled with dedicated supporters who make every matchday count.
The Rainham End is the heart of the home support, with chants and cheers echoing through the ground on matchdays. The traditional nature of the ground, along with the close proximity of the stands to the pitch, creates an old-school football feel that’s increasingly rare in the modern game.
Ticket Information
Gillingham tickets are especially popular among local supporters and those seeking a traditional matchday experience. Key fixtures, such as derbies and promotion battles, often see increased demand, so securing tickets in advance is recommended for the best availability.
SafeTicketCompare lists all available Gillingham tickets, both home and away, giving fans access to secure and competitively priced options for all matches. Whether you’re visiting Priestfield for the first time or returning as a regular, the experience is one grounded in passion and heritage.
Major Honours
Winners | Season |
Football League Second Division Play-Offs | 1999/2000 |
Football League Fourth Division | 1963/64 |
Football League Two | 2012/13 |
Key Rivalries
Gillingham’s main rivalries include matches against Swindon Town and Millwall, both of which have featured frequently in their league campaigns over the years. Kent derbies against Dartford and Maidstone United (when applicable) also generate regional interest and passionate encounters.