CITY BANKERS SOFTBALL LEAGUE

The City's Home of Softball

London's longest-running mixed corporate softball league.

Our History

The City Bankers Softball League began in the mid-1980s, founded by members of London's expatriate community working in the financial district, 'The City'. The league is a mixed, corporate, social competition played after work — with teams traditionally heading to the pub together afterwards. Games were originally held in Hyde Park before expanding into various parks across London and eventually settling in Regent's Park.

Like all UK leagues, the CBSL is governed by the British Softball Federation and follows WBSC rules. Our trophy records go back to 1989, although we know the league existed informally even earlier. Each season, we host a one-day tournament where all teams, families, and friends come together for a relaxed yet competitive day of softball.

Team numbers peaked at 36 in 2008 and gradually declined as the expatriate community changed and other leagues grew across London. Participation dropped sharply after the 2020 pandemic as remote work became more common. Despite these challenges, the league remains active and is always welcoming new teams looking to enjoy friendly, social softball in the heart of London.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide a fun, safe, and social environment where teams from across London can enjoy softball, build community, and compete with respect and good spirit. We are committed to maintaining an inclusive league that celebrates teamwork, fair play, and the long-standing traditions of City softball.

HOW TO JOIN

Three ways to get involved in the City Bankers Softball League. Whether solo or with a group, we'll find you the perfect fit.

INDIVIDUAL PLAYER

New or experienced

Looking to join a team? Whether you're completely new to softball or have played before, we have teams looking for players of all skill levels.

  • Join existing CBSL teams
  • Mixed teams (min 3 women per game)
  • Mid-April to August season
  • Games Mon-Wed at 7pm in Regent's Park

EXPERIENCED TEAM

10+ players ready to go

Have a group ready to compete? Join the league as a complete team. We welcome corporate groups, friend groups, and returning teams.

  • Register your full team
  • Guaranteed roster spots
  • Competitive fixtures scheduled
  • Social atmosphere with post-game pubs

CORPORATE GROUP

5-10 interested players

Not quite ready for a full team? Join forces with other small groups to form mixed teams for the season.

  • Combine with other groups
  • Build team chemistry
  • Competitive and social divisions
  • Team and league tournaments

THE SEASON

When We Play

Mid-April to Mid-August

Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Games start at 7:00 PM

(Other times can be agreed by team captains)

Where We Play

Regent's Park

London's most iconic setting

Multiple pitches available

Team Structure

10 players per team

Mixed men & women

Minimum 3 women per game

Season Highlights

Competitive league fixtures

Annual one-day tournament

Social atmosphere & post-game pubs

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

What You'll Need

  • Official bases (1 safety base, 2 normal bases)
  • Home plate and pitcher's plate
  • Official softball bats
  • Official softballs
  • Baseball or softball gloves (minimum 10)
  • Scorebook and pen
  • Equipment bag for storage

Where to Buy

WHY PLAY SOFTBALL?

Friendly, social atmosphere with like-minded professionals

Mixed teams with balanced gender participation

Easy to learn and fun for all abilities

Midweek games after work during the summer

Post-game pub visits – build lasting friendships

Annual tournament for friendly competition

Get outdoors and active in beautiful Regent's Park

No experience necessary – join as a beginner

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