It includes three of the oldest teams in England, with Sheffield F.C (founded 1857) generally regarded as oldest in the world. Hallam F.C have played at the world's oldest football ground, Sandygate, since their establishment in 1860. Finally, former league champions and two-time FA Vase winners Brigg Town F.C date to 1864.
Should they meet the relevant ground standards, league champions are promoted to the Northern Premier League's lower division. In the event of a winner not meeting the ground requirements, the runner-up may be granted promotion.
There are 20 teams in the higher Premier Division and 16 in the First Division.
The Central Midlands League currently ranks below the NCE League on the Pyramid.