Chess
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out chess events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the chess events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find chess events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Chess Events Today
Join in-person Chess events happening right now
Chess and Drinks
Multiple tables booked for some casual chess and a few drinks.
We do not do ratings or clocks. So no matter your ability, just turn up and you will be welcomed with a game!
We have Six plus chessboards, but feel free to bring your own.
Chess at Chelsea
**Chelsea Library**
🕓 **Time:** Thursday, 5:30-6:30pm
💷 **Cost:** Free
👥 **Who can join:** Everyone! Kids aged 6+, families, students, and adults — all welcome.
Join the discord Channel: https://discord.gg/ggGXtxs2
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### What to Expect
* Friendly games & casual matches
* A welcoming, intergenerational community atmosphere
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### ♟️ About Us
This club is part of the **RBKC Chess Community**, a grassroots community project promoting learning, friendship, and mental well-being through chess.
Come play, learn, and connect — your next great move might be more than just on the board!
Thursday Mafia Game – Intermediate | The Hydrant (Monument)
**Welcome to UK Mafia!**
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* ***💷 We kindly ask for a £10 donation to cover our expenses. You can pay at the door via Revolut, Cash, Bank Transfer or PayPal.***
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📍**Where?** **The Hydrant @ Monument**
**\- Second Floor \- Function Room**
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**🕵️♂️ What is Mafia?** Play the game that 'Traitors' is based upon! Mafia is a 10-player social game, competitive, easy to learn, and played at multiple tables. Each player gets a secret role and works with their team to win. Games last about 45 minutes, so we play many during the day. The **Mafia team** tries to hide and eliminate the **Citizens**, while the **Citizens** try to find the Mafia through deduction and logic. We always have first-time players and explain everything. No experience needed.
While this is a beginner-friendly game, we also host tournaments and online events with players from around the world. We even organise trips abroad to meet and play with other Mafia clubs ✈️
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**[How to Play?](https://bit.ly/HowToPlayMafia)**
We will teach you how to play when you arrive. You will quickly see that the game has two phases:
🌙 **Night:**
* The Mafia secretly targets a Citizen
* The *Don* (Mafia) learns if a player is the *Sheriff*
* The *Sheriff* (Citizen) learns if someone is Mafia
☀️ **Day:**
* Each player says in their turn who they think the Mafia are
* Then, everyone votes publicly to eliminate one player
The game continues until the Mafia are eliminated or they outnumber (or equal) the Citizens. We will explain all the rules at the venue, and you’ll pick it up.
Want to learn more about the game? See our wide range of resources, including brochures and videos: **[https://bit.ly/EMF-TIPS](https://bit.ly/EMF-TIPS)**
***
**🌍 Why Mafia?** Mafia is a global game played by over 15,000 people in 50+ countries, with clubs, tournaments, websites, and federations, like the [English Mafia Federation](https://bit.ly/EML2025) and the [Mafia World Cup](https://www.youtube.com/@MafiaWorldCup/streams).
---
**❓Questions -** Message any admin, anytime!
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\- Mafia Tips\, Rules\, Videos\, Resources: **[https://bit.ly/EMF-TIPS](https://bit.ly/EMF-TIPS)**
\- Watch games and lessons here: **[https://www.youtube.com/@MafiaWorldCup/streams](https://www.youtube.com/@MafiaWorldCup/streams)**
**Contact UK Mafia Club**
\- UK Mafia Club Instagram **[https://www.instagram.com/uk_mafia_club/](https://www.instagram.com/uk_mafia_club/)**
\- UK Mafia Club YouTube **[www.youtube.com/@UKMafiaClub](http://www.youtube.com/@UKMafiaClub)**
\- UK Mafia Club Telegram Channel **[https://t.me/UK_MAFIA_CLUB](https://t.me/UK_MAFIA_CLUB)**
\- UK Mafia Club Telegram Chat **[https://t.me/UK_MAFIA_CLUB_CHAT](https://t.me/UK_MAFIA_CLUB_CHAT)**
\- UK Mafia Club Discord **[https://discord.gg/fQM7duV96D](https://discord.gg/fQM7duV96D)**
\- UK Mafia Club Email **[ukmafiaclub@gmail.com](http://ukmafiaclub@gmail.com/)**
\- UK Mafia Club Mafgame profile **[https://mafgame.org/clubs/79/view](https://mafgame.org/clubs/79/view)**
**Contact the Mafia World Cup:**
\- Mafia World Cup Instagram **[https://www.instagram.com/mafiaworldcup/](https://www.instagram.com/mafiaworldcup/)**
\- Mafia World Cup Facebook
**[https://www.facebook.com/mafworldcup/](https://www.facebook.com/mafworldcup/)**
\- Mafia World Cup Telegram
**[https://t.me/Mafia_World_Cup](https://t.me/Mafia_World_Cup)**
One-To-One English Lesson!
I am a native, qualified teacher of English and this is a one-to-one lesson designed to suit your specific requirements, whether they be exams, grammar, business or general conversation. If you prefer a different time and/or location, then please send me a message and we can arrange something which is convenient for you. Many thanks, Keith
🏐Volleyprofs📍Marylebone 📶 Upper Intermediate
**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/43581
**Game Description:**
Mixed nationality and gender players play volleyball in our club for 10 years every Tuesday & Thursday from 8pm-10pm in upper intermediate and advance level.
**Rules**
Respect each other, focused on your own play and progress, be kind and cheer your team mate.
Free Afternoon English Lessons (Pre-Intermediate) – London Holborn – Mon–Fri
**Hello there!**
Are you learning English as a second language and looking for an opportunity to practise your English? Interested in **free, in-person lessons**? We’ve got you covered!
Here at **Stafford House London**, our teachers-in-training are gaining hands-on experience by teaching enthusiastic English learners. Each lesson is interactive and fun, with plenty of opportunities to practise speaking, meet other learners, and improve your English along the way.
We also offer **free online English classes**. For more information, please email us at **teachertraining@staffordhouse.com**.
🕑 **When:** From 5th Jan - 29th Jan 2026 (4 weeks)
➡️Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
➡️Fridays 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m
📍 **Where:** Stafford House London, 2 Southampton Place, WC1A 2DA (just 2 minutes from Holborn Station)
📚 **Level:**
**Pre-Intermediate (A2) -** From 5th Jan **-** 16th Jan 26
**Upper-Intermediate (B2)** \- From 16th Jan \- 29th Jan 26
Spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Please arrive **15- 30 minutes early** to secure your spot. We will ask for your name and email upon arrival.
*Please note: confirming attendance on Meetup does not guarantee a place in the classroom.*
We look forward to seeing you all very soon!
🏐 Volleyball Session 📍 Brixton 📶 Mixed Ability
**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/40221
**Game Description:**
Please be aware that our sessions are also on our own mobile app. Therefore, the number of participants you currently see may not reflect the total number of participants.
Elevate your volleyball skills at our adult coaching sessions! Led by expert coaches, our sessions cater to all levels, from beginners to experienced players. Develop your technique, agility, and teamwork through drills and gameplay. Join our vibrant community and unleash your full potential on the court. Let's play, learn, and excel together.
**Rules**
By booking this session, you acknowledge and agree to comply with our terms and conditions, privacy policies, and cancellation policy, which can be found below.
**Terms & Conditions at:**
https://www.littlegiantsvc.com/terms-and-conditions
**Privacy Policy at:**
https://www.littlegiantsvc.com/privacy-policy
Chess Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Rated Blitz & Rapid tournament
Yas Queen! Chess Club Rapid and Blitz Tournament
Old Diorama Arts Centre - Saturday 17th January 2026
Sign up here:
https://www.congress.org.uk/congress/723/home
5-Round rapid + 10 round blitz ECF and FIDE rated Open
*Entry Fees:
Open section
Full day £35
Rapid only £20
Blitz only £20
Women/girls £25 full day
To note: One 1/2 point bye is permitted for each tournament (rapid and blitz) and must be selected on the entry form by midnight on 16th January 2026.
* If you only have an ECF Bronze membership your entry to the tournament will not be confirmed until you pay the additional £16 play up fee for FIDE rated games.
** We are keen to encourage more women and girls in competitive chess and are offering a discounted entry rate (gender F in the ECF database).
Please note that full price applies at point of entry and after completing the full day (rapid and blitz) £10 cash back will be given at the end of the day.
Venue address: Old Diorama Arts Centre, 201 Drummond Street, NW1 3FE.
Venue Accessibility information:
https://olddiorama.com/accessibility
Schedule:
10 am - Registration
Rapid (10 + 5)
10.15 - 5 rounds
Break
13.15(45mins)
Blitz (3 + 2)
14.00 - 6 rounds
Break
15.35 (10 mins)
15.45 4 rounds
17.00: Prize giving
ECF Membership
All players are required to have an ECF Gold Membership. Anyone with a bronze membership will need to pay an additional £16 play up fee.
If you are an ECF member and not yet a FIDE member, please sign up to get a free ENG federation FIDE ID here: https://britchess.wufoo.com/forms/fide-id-request-form-2024/ If you want your federation to be something other than ENG, this would need to be arranged prior to the tournament.
CONDITIONS OF ENTRY:
Last entries at midnight on Friday 16th January 2026.
In all disputes the decision of the Congress Controllers is final.
No player may win more than one cash prize.
Addresses will be stored on a computer for sending out future congress entry forms and players grades will appear on the ECF web site.
All mobile phones / alarms must be turned off and not on your person during play
Yas Queen! Code of Conduct:
We are an LGBTQ+ club. All allies are welcome. We reserve the right to exclude anyone from our events in case of any behaviour (at our events or otherwise) which does not support our aim of creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ club members.
ECF Policy for transgender players https://www.englishchess.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ECF-Policy-on-Transgendered-Players.pdf
ONLY 42 SPACES! GET YOUR TICKET ASAP!
To enter, click here: https://www.congress.org.uk/congress/723/home
Yas Queen! Chess Club (@yasqueen.chessclub) • Instagram photos and videos
Chess&Chats Weekly Women Social Casual Chess
Discover a unique chess community where we’ve created a friendly, positive environment for playing and learning chess, quite different from the ordinary, male-dominated clubs.
This is a place to feel at home, connect with like-minded people, and enjoy developing your chess skills within a supportive community.
What to Expect:
♟ Friendly games and casual play
♟ Coaching sessions for beginners and intermediate players
♟ Socialising with fellow chess lovers
♟ A welcoming and inclusive atmosphere
Ad exciting news: Series of Group Coaching on started on 15th November and a few more: [sign up here](https://pci.jotform.com/form/241475449120353)
At London Women Chess Club, we’re passionate about empowering women in chess. Our non-profit community is dedicated to creating a safe and engaging space for women and juniors to develop their skills, gain confidence, and enjoy the game.
Let’s celebrate the contributions of women in chess and build a vibrant, dynamic community together. Come and be part of something
We can’t wait to see you there!
[Join Us!](https://form.jotform.com/241453653475359)
[Instagram!](https://www.instagram.com/londonwomenchessclub)
Chess & Coffee (NEW VENUE)
PLEASE NOTE - no need to RSVP, just turn up.
We promote the event across several platforms and typically see 50-100 people attend. Check out our IG/Eventbrite for more info:
https://www.instagram.com/london_chess_club/
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/london-chess-club-44051435533
This event is for anyone who likes to play chess. If you are a beginner or master do not worry, come along as there are players of different standards here.
Play will start from 11am and finish around 4pm. You are free to join us at any time.
It helps if you can bring your own board, but don't worry if you can't, we'll provide one.
Follow us at:
@london_chess_club
Chess@Hammersmith - London
**Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned master, join Our Chess Enthusiast Group for Social Fun and Friendly Matches**
**This is the perfect opportunity to socialise, make new friends, and engage in the intellectually stimulating and entertaining world of chess.**
**Our chess group is a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds and experience levels. We believe that chess is a game that transcends age and gender, uniting people in the pursuit of strategic brilliance and camaraderie. Whether you're a novice looking to learn the ropes or a grandmaster seeking challenging opponents, our group is the ideal place for you.**
**When and Where We Meet**
**We gather every Saturday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at a convenient and accessible location:**
**Venue: 245 Hammersmith Road, London, W6 8PW**
**Our chosen venue is not only a clean and safe space but also secure, ensuring that your chess sessions are enjoyable and worry-free.**
**Additionally, there is an indoor cafe on-site, so you can relax with a refreshing beverage and delicious snacks between matches.**
**What to Expect**
**When you join our chess enthusiast group, you can look forward to a variety of chess-related activities:**
1. **Engage in chess matches with players of varying skill levels, providing a perfect opportunity to improve your game or showcase your expertise.**
2. **Connect with fellow chess enthusiasts who share your passion, fostering new friendships and a sense of community.**
3. **If you're a beginner, our more experienced members are always willing to offer guidance and tips to help you grow as a chess player.**
4. **We occasionally organise chess tournaments and special events, allowing you to challenge yourself and compete for prizes.**
**Reserve Your Space**
**Due to space limitations, we kindly request that you reserve your spot before attending our chess gatherings. This ensures that we can accommodate everyone and maintain a comfortable atmosphere for all participants. To reserve your space or inquire about the group, please reach out to us via email magdyelalfy@gmail.com**
**While we do provide chess sets at our venue, we encourage members to bring their own if they have one. Personalising your chess experience with your preferred set can add a unique touch to your games.**
**Join us at 245 Hammersmith Road, London, W6 8PW, and be a part of a vibrant and engaging chess community. Whether you're in it for the love of the game, the social interactions, or both, our chess enthusiast group offers a fantastic platform to indulge your passion for chess and make new friends along the way. We look forward to welcoming you into our fold and sharing the joy of chess with you.**
**For reservations, Click attend on the meetup App.**
**Come and make your next move with us – both on the chessboard and in your social circle!**
Backgammon Social with Drinks n Dinner Sun 18 January, 3pm at Great Scotland
Venue: Civil Service Club
Date/Time: Sunday 18 January, 3-8pm and possibly beyond!
First timers - please kindly read below about bringing your board, meetup fee, purchasing drinks and food, Etiquette etc
Dear Backgammon Lovers,
We had an absolute blast at Gest, with around 25 backgammoners turning up for an evening of dice, laughter, a ton of doubles, and delicious food... well mine was great!
The staff, the venue, were all top-notch.
It was fantastic to welcome many new backgammoners and to catch up with so many familiar faces.
For now we will also continue to meet at the CSC which has it's own individual charm.
Social Backgammon
Whether you're a seasoned backgammoner or a newbie looking to learn this fabulous game, our social event is open to all.
This is also the perfect chance to sharpen your game, and share a laugh (or a lucky double six!) over backgammon. Add in a drink, maybe dinner, and you’ve got the recipe for a fun and relaxed evening.
Venue Food and Drink
Just a little reminder that when we use the Civil Service Club, we’re asked to buy at least one drink whilst we’re there!
The Club also has a nice range of food and snacks on offer, all at really good prices, so it’s a great chance to relax and make the most of the day.
About our backgammon social group
Our group has been running for 10 years since June 2015 and we have held over 450 official backgammon meetings - along with a further 200 off-grid (non meetups) since then.
We are the largest backgammon group in the UK with nearly 2,000 backgammon members.
What makes our group special are its members and the warmth, humour and friendliness whilst playing this splendid social game over a few drinks... usually fortnightly, and on a Sunday.
We have about 30-odd regular members who play socially and we very much welcome new players too - so do come along.
Dinner Time and Drinks and Food
In between the rounds of backgammon many of us sit for a meal around 6pm, but you can order drinks and food whenever you like.
RSVP
Please RSVP asap - . Often I need to provide the Club with an indication of numbers.
Bring your own Backgammon Board - no problem if initially you don't have one.
Love seeing the different styles and size of boards - my boards have somehow gotten larger over the years. Please bring your own backgammon board and should you not have one please let us know in advance via the Meetup message board so that others can make the effort to bring theirs.
Meetup Fee
I will ask for £4 as the meetup fees etc have increased substantially over the past year or two. This also assists paying other admin costs including Club membership and tips.
Other Games
We sometimes play other games in the evening such as Rummikub, Yahtzee, and a type of Gin Rummy... so ask and watch this space!
Etiquette
Just a quick reminder- it’s always nice to say thank you to the staff at the CSC when you can.
Let’s also keep things warm and friendly with each other and enjoy the game.
If anything comes up, please feel free to have a word with me or whoever is hosting that day.
Backgammon Rules
With one or two exceptions our group plays international backgammon tournament rules. I have outlined these rules on our meetup page.
My Contact
Should you get lost or need to get in touch my number is: 07956 263451. Would advise you not to post messages two hours before the meetup commences as there's often chance I will not see it.
Best wishes again to all you Backgammoners for 2026!
Chris Sattaur
🏆Short Kings Only: Men's 6v6 Tournament (Sub-6ft) 🏐📍UEL 📶Mid Intermediate
**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/43481
**Game Description:**
👑 THE SHORT KINGS HAVE ARRIVED! 👑
Tired of getting roofed by 6'5" middle blockers? Sick of looking up at the net? It’s time to level the playing field.
Pantheon Volleyball is hosting London’s most anticipated specialized tournament: The Short Kings Showdown.
This is a high-octane, fast-paced Men's 6v6 tournament designed exclusively for athletes under 6ft (183cm). We are lowering the net, increasing the bounce, and letting the most explosive players in London go head-to-head without the giants getting in the way.
Expect insane rallies, massive verticals, and a tournament atmosphere like no other.
📍 Venue: SportsDock, UEL 📅 Date: Sunday, January 18th 🏐 Level: Intermediate/Advanced (Competitive mindset required!)
Whether you're a libero who wants to swing, a setter who wants to block, or an outside hitter ready to dominate—this is your stage.
Spots are extremely limited. Grab your ticket now and claim the crown. 👑
\*platform transaction fee applies\*
**Rules**
📜 OFFICIAL SHORT KING RULES
1\. The Height Cap 📏
Strict Limit: All players must be under 6'0.5" with one exception allowed.
Measurement: We will have a measuring tape at registration! If you are over the limit, you cannot play. No exceptions.
2\. The Net 🏐
Height: Standard Men’s Height (2.43m).
The Challenge: We aren't lowering the net. Show us your vertical and your shot selection without the 6'6" blockers in your way.
3\. The Gameplay ⚔️
Format: Men’s 6v6.
Rotation: Standard volleyball rotation rules apply.
Libero: You can play with a Libero if you choose.
4\. The Vibe ✨
Competitive but supportive.
Prize: Awards for 1st and 2nd place (and bragging rights).
🏐 Volleyball Session📍 King's Cross 📶 Upper Intermediate
**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/42283
**Game Description:**
Only sign up if you are Upper Intermediate/ Advanced Level Player and Knowlegeable of 5:1 Rotations. You will be ask not to join the game if you do not qualify from the criteria stated. Organizer have the right not to refund your money. Its not personal though.
Our goal is to have a good time, enjoy the company of friendly people and play some competitive games.
Remember "Every Serve is a Point"
**Rules**
5:1 Rotations
6 Players/ team
15 points
Chess Events Near You
Connect with your local Chess community
Columbus Chess Club
This is a time where players of all ages, and skill levels can gather and enjoy a nice Sunday full of Chess!
CABS Saturday - 01/24 - It's Your Move!!!
Join us every Saturday of January for a day of boardgaming !!!
You first visit is free and if you were not a member in 2025 you can join for the rest of the year for only **$40!!!**
Pickaway County Chess Club
Younkin Branch Library (Ashville) meeting space is now reserved for any and all interested in or enthused by playing a game of chess. The second Thursday of each month, 6:00pm to 7:50pm. First gathering is Thursday, May 11th. No fees. Chess sets provided; however, you may bring your own if you wish.
CABS Saturday - 01/31 - It's Your Move!!!
Join us every Saturday of January for a day of boardgaming !!!
You first visit is free and if you were not a member in 2025 you can join for the rest of the year for only **$40!!!**
In-Person Event: The Answers to Depression & Anxiety
This is an in-person meeting. At this meeting you will get answers to depression and anxiety. Find out the source of them and how to get rid of them.
Did you know that unwanted emotions like anxiety, depression, unhappiness, loneliness, hopelessness, anger, fear, or feelings of irritation don’t just fall on you for no reason. They are not random occurrences that simply happen to people's minds. They are definitely not due to a chemical imbalance in your brain from some nebulous chemical reaction "by chance".
Your negative emotions are the symptoms of the painful experiences that you have which are not healed, and which are still affecting you.
The effects of these painful experiences are exacerbated by the pressures or difficulties of the other problems in your life.
Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life.
Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there.
This group is created by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation of Central Ohio and Church of Scientology of Central Ohio.
CABS Saturday !!! 1/17/2026
Come game with us !!! Your first visit is FREE!!! Let's play one of the 2000+ games we have on site or bring one of yours.






















