Make Your Move and Get Involved in Liverpool’s Summer of Chess!

This summer, Liverpool will welcome the prestigious 2025 British Chess Championships and with FREE events, giant chessboards and coaching – everyone is invited to get involved!

The English Chess Federation’s flagship event will take over St George’s Hall from 31 July to 10 August, but the celebrations will extend across the city with an exciting programme of community events.

In the run up to, and throughout the duration of, the tournament, public spaces, parks, libraries and iconic venues will play host to a number of activities which will be perfect whether you are a complete beginner or grandmaster – and best of all, it’s completely free, although some events require pre-registration.

There are more than 20 events taking place, and some of the highlights include:

• ChessFest at Liverpool ONE, Sunday 20 July, 11am–4pm
  Enjoy giant outdoor chess, free lessons, and the chance to play against a master in Chavasse Park.

• Grand Opening Simul at Williamson Square, Friday 1 August, 1pm–5pm, Registration required (details below)
  Take on Grandmasters like Simon Williams and Danny Gormally in a thrilling simultaneous display.

• Chess Coaching at Central Library, Saturday 2 August, 11am–3pm
  Learn from expert coaches and sharpen your skills in this welcoming environment.

• Street Fest on Castle Street/Liverpool Town Hall, Sunday 3 August, 11am-5pm, Registration required.  
  As part of this vibrant festival, enjoy special chess events including a giant chess board on Castle Street or casual play, coaching, and expert lectures at Liverpool Town Hall.

• Blitz Challenge at Our Lady and St Nicholas Church, Monday 4 August, 6-9pm, Registration required.  
  A rapid-play chess tournament for dedicated players of all levels is the perfect event for those passionate about the game and eager for a challenge.

• Pop Up Challenge at Walker Art Gallery, Thursday 7 August, 11am-4pm

In the majestic surroundings of the Walker Art Gallery, participants will have the unique opportunity to challenge some of the region’s most skilled local chess players, including FIDE Master Jonathan Blackburn.

Find the full programme of events and register on the Culture Liverpool website.

The programme has been organised by Chess in Schools & Communities in partnership with Culture Liverpool, and is designed to be inclusive, fun, and family-friendly — making chess accessible to all ages and abilities.

This is the second time the British Chess Championships has taken place in Liverpool in the tournament’s 121-year history and is supported by the English Chess Federation, Chess In Schools and Communities, Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Chess Association, Liverpool Bid Company, UKSPF and local chess clubs and their players.

Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:
“This wraparound programme is a brilliant example of how culture can be both inclusive and inspiring.

“We’re proud to support an event that brings people together in such a creative way and I encourage everyone to get involved, whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious to learn. This is your chance to be part of something special happening right across Liverpool.”

Rob Steele, Regional Coordinator, Chess in Schools & Communities, said:
“We believe chess has the power to change lives for the better — it teaches patience, strategy, and resilience. Through these community events, we’re making the game accessible to everyone, especially young people and families.

“It’s not just about competition; it’s about community, learning, and having fun and we can’t wait to welcome people of all ages to join us this summer.”