Atkinson was born in Carlisle, and began his football career with his local club, Carlisle United. He made his debut during the 1952–53 season, and went on to make 128 appearances in senior competition. Jointly with Alan Ashman, he was Carlisle's top league scorer in 1955–56 with 17 goals, and in 123 league matches for the club he scored 54 goals. He left Carlisle in 1957 for a brief spell with Exeter City.
