Market Square, Lancaster

10am-5pm, Monday 17th August 2026

For the first time, ChessFest comes to the historic city of Lancaster for a day of fun, family-friendly, free chess activities. Please join us and our amazing team for a great day out. From young to old, beginner to grandmaster, ChessFest Lancaster has something for everyone:

  • Free chess lessons for children and adults from CSC tutors

  • Simultaneous displays against top Lancashire experts

  • Giant chess sets for visitors to play on

  • Casual chess tables for children and chess fans to play against each other, and much more

ChessFest Lancaster is organised by CSC and supported by Lancaster CIty Council. For more details of the event, please contact CSC Regional Coordinator for Lancashire, Richard Walsh.

Those interested in competitive chess may want to enter the Fourth Lancaster Standard Play FIDE Congress which takes place in the three days preceding ChessFest (14-16 August 2026).

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How to get to Market Square, Lancaster, LA1 1AL

By Train
The Market Square is a few minutes away from Lancaster Station, which is on the West Coast Main Line.

By Bus
The Market Square is well served by local busses and is a short walk from Lancaster Bus Station.

By Car
The Market Square is easily accessible on foot from several of the city centre car parks.