On Sunday 20th July 2025, Chavasse Park at Liverpool ONE came alive with the hum of chess clocks and eager chatter as over 1,000 people gathered for ChessFest: Liverpool, part of the nationwide ChessFest series. Hosted by Chess in Schools & Communities (CSC) in collaboration with the Merseyside Chess Association, the event invited players of every age and strength to embrace the game in a vibrant outdoor setting
What Happened at the Festival
- Free Chess Lessons for children and adults, led by CSC tutors.
- Social & Casual Games, with over 100 boards available across the park .
- Giant Outdoor Chess Sets, providing both visual appeal and hands-on fun .
- Simultaneous Displays, offering attendees the thrill of facing a chess master.
- A Blitz Tournament, adding a dash of competition and excitement
Community, Learning, and Inspiration
ChessFest isn’t just about playing, it’s about community. Kids discovered pieces for the first time, adults rekindled their love for the game, and all ages enjoyed shared moments of concentration and joy. The event also fits into a broader commitment: over the past few years, CSC has helped install permanent outdoor chess tables across the Liverpool region, turning parks into informal hubs of chess learning
Quotes from the Organizers
Donna Howitt, Place Strategy Director at Liverpool ONE:
“ChessFest is one of our summer highlights… events like this are key to nurturing our city’s young talent and creating community.”
Rob Steele, CSC Merseyside Coordinator:
“We believe chess has the power to change lives… Through these community events, we’re making the game accessible to everyone, especially young people and families"
Getting There
By train: Just outside Chavasse Park are James Street, Moorfields, and Liverpool Central stations—each within a 5–10 minute walk .
By bus: The Liverpool ONE bus station offers multiple local and express services
Why ChessFest Matters
Inclusivity: From first-timers to grandmasters, the event welcomes all.
Accessibility: Completely free. no entry fees or registrations required.
Education & Outreach: Highlights the value of chess as a tool for building critical thinking, concentration, and community ties.
Momentum: Part of Liverpool’s growing chess culture and tied to city hubs like St George’s Hall for further tournaments.
Mark Your Calendar
ChessFest Liverpool is back in July 2026 a must for chess lovers and casual players alike. And don’t miss the British Chess Championships at St George’s Hall from 31 July to 10 August, offering even more chess action, master simul displays, coaching, and spectacular matches .
Did You Attend?
We’d love to hear your stories! Share your ChessFest highlights—whether it was a giant piece puzzle, a winsome blitz game, or a first-ever victory on a chessboard. Drop your thoughts in the comments below.