The 5 Biggest Gallagher Prem Derbies (Ranked 5–1)

From blood-and-thunder historical rivalries to newer, emerging matchups, each clash has its own flavour. With form often thrown out the window, passion, intensity and atmosphere take centre stage.

Here’s our ranking of the five biggest derbies being played this weekend — from least to most fierce.

Let’s be honest — even fans from Manchester or the North East would struggle to call this a true derby. With 151 miles and nearly three hours of motorway between the two clubs, there’s minimal geographical or cultural rivalry here. Historically, the fixture has lacked bite both on and off the pitch, largely due to Newcastle's struggles in recent years. That may now change thanks to fresh investment from the Red Bulls ownership, bringing optimism and ambition back to Kingston Park.

Still, this matchup feels more like a symbolic northern clash than a genuine derby grudge match. There’s no real animosity, no fan hostility, and no defining moment that’s embedded it in the national rugby consciousness. That said, having two northern clubs in the top flight remains important for the Premiership’s geographical diversity — and perhaps, in time, this fixture will grow into something more meaningful.

Dubbed the “New West Country Derby,” this fixture is entertaining — but still lacks the deep-rooted tension of its more historic neighbours.

Many Bristol fans still view Bath, just 14 miles away, as their main rival. Exeter, meanwhile, may reserve more sporting animosity for Plymouth, although that's more pronounced in football than rugby. Nonetheless, both sides play an exciting brand of rugby, and when they meet, it’s usually an open, fast-paced contest.

This weekend's clash could be impacted by Bristol's mounting injury list, but the ambition remains high on both sides. While this game may not be steeped in tradition or local tribalism, it's becoming more relevant year-on-year thanks to the growth and competitive edge of both clubs.

It’s a fixture with potential — a newer rivalry that could ignite further if both teams continue pushing for top-tier honours. But as it stands, it’s not quite at the level of others.

Less than 20 miles separate Harlequins and Saracens, but there's far more to this rivalry than simple proximity. It’s a battle of rugby philosophies, club identities, and pride in being London's top side.

Quins are the older, heritage-rich club based at the heart of Twickenham, while Saracens — once nomadic, now based in North London — dominated the 2010s with clinical, physical rugby and a few controversies along the way.

Saracens have often worn the “villain” tag, while Quins have leaned into a more swashbuckling image. What adds spice is the dynamic between old and new power: Quins may be historically bigger, but Saracens have unquestionably had the upper hand in recent years.

The modern Prem era has turned this into a genuine derby filled with big games, strong personalities, and a sense of capital city bragging rights.

This one has everything a derby needs: history, proximity, passion, and frequent fireworks — on and off the pitch. First contested in 1888, the East Midlands Derby is among the oldest and fiercest in English rugby. Just 43 miles apart, the rivalry is fuelled by regional pride and long-standing tension between the smaller, proud rugby town of Northampton and the more industrial, culturally larger Leicester. The 2010s were golden years for this fixture: punch-ups, cards, and even a red card for Dylan Hartley in a Premiership Final.

Saints’ last-gasp semi-final win in 2014 and the emotional Twickenham match for Rob Horne only deepened the fixture’s legacy. While both clubs have had fluctuating fortunes, the needle never goes away. No matter the table position, this clash always matters. Brutal, emotional, and unrelenting — it’s a genuine Prem classic that rarely fails to live up to its billing.

There’s no debate — this is the definitive Prem derby. The West Country rivalry between Bath and Gloucester stretches back to 1882 and remains the most iconic and fiercely contested fixture in English club rugby.

Separated by just over 50 miles but united in their deep rugby roots, these are two cities where the sport is woven into the cultural fabric. The games are loud, passionate, and utterly unmissable — whether at the atmospheric Rec or the cauldron of Kingsholm.

Unlike newer derbies, this one isn’t manufactured — it’s organic, historic, and year-defining for fans. Local bragging rights matter deeply, and victories are remembered for decades. While form plays its part, this match is all about emotional weight, intensity, and legacy.

It may not have always had title implications, but in terms of prestige and meaning, Bath vs Gloucester is untouchable. It’s the one derby every neutral should tune in for.