Market Square, Lancaster
10am-5pm, Monday 17th August 2026
For the first time, ChessFest came to the historic city of Lancaster for a day of fun, family-friendly, free chess activities. 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 Glenn House and Max Fyson
Giant chess sets for visitors to play on
Casual chess tables for children and chess fans to play against each other, and much more
Live music - the heavy metal band Pinsonic performed their “Chess Rocks” set at 3pm
ChessFest Lancaster was organised by CSC and supported by Lancaster CIty Council and the English Chess Federation. For more details of the event, please contact CSC Regional Coordinator for Lancashire, Richard Walsh.
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.
