Hampden Park: Campaigners bid to save historic Scottish stadium undiscovered for 138 years

Campaigners have launched an ambitious bid to save the site of Scotland's first national football ground, which was only rediscovered through an archaeological excavation in 2021.

The original Hampden hosted Scotland internationals and Scottish Cup finals between 1873 and 1883 and is regarded as the world's first international football stadium.

Campaign launched to save site of Scotland's first international stadium

Hampden Bowling Club, which occupied the land on Kingsley Avenue in Glasgow's southside from 1905, closed in February, leaving the historic site vulnerable to commercial redevelopment.

The remains of the original stadium were discovered during an archaeological excavation in 2021, including the ground where Scotland famously defeated England 5-1 in 1882.

In May, Historic Environment Scotland designated the site as a scheduled monument, providing greater protection for an area considered to be of major sporting and historical importance.

Campaigners have now launched the First Hampden for All campaign in an attempt to bring the site into community ownership and preserve its footballing heritage.

Under the plans, the grounds would become a heritage site and a modern community hub, providing an affordable events venue and space for recreation.

Campaigners also want to preserve the site's sporting and social legacy through curated installations celebrating its role in the development of football.

First Hampden CIC, which is organising the campaign, is made up of local residents alongside heritage, sporting and community organisations.

Campaigners have urged individuals and organisations to support the initiative, warning that the chance to turn First Hampden into a locally valuable and nationally significant site could otherwise be lost.

FGG Says: First Hampden deserves to be preserved

The site of the original Hampden Park represents a remarkable part of Scottish football history, particularly given its importance to the early development of the international game.

With the remains having only been rediscovered in 2021, preserving the site for future generations would ensure one of football's most historically significant locations is not lost to redevelopment.