British National League (1996–2005)

The British National League (BNL) was a professional ice hockey league in the United Kingdom that operated from the 1996–97 season to the 2004–05 season. It served as the second tier of British ice hockey during its existence, below the Ice Hockey Superleague.

The league was formed following the dissolution of the British Hockey League (BHL) in 1996. It aimed to provide a competitive platform for both British and import players, offering an alternative to the more expensive Superleague. The BNL generally featured teams based in smaller cities and towns than the Superleague, often drawing strong local support.

During its nine seasons, the BNL saw a variety of teams participate, with franchises coming and going due to financial constraints and other factors. Some of the more prominent teams included the Guildford Flames, Bracknell Bees, Coventry Blaze, and Peterborough Phantoms.

The league operated on a traditional points system, with teams earning points for wins and ties (overtime wins later introduced). At the end of the regular season, the top teams would qualify for the playoffs, culminating in a championship final.

The British National League ceased operations following the 2004–05 season, largely due to increasing financial pressures and the increasing dominance of the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL), which was established in 2003. Many BNL teams subsequently joined the EIHL or other leagues, marking the end of the BNL's existence as a distinct entity in British ice hockey.