Chess ‘n Chill at Old Spitalfields Market: The Thursday Evening You Didn’t Know You Needed
Imagine heading to Spitalfields on a warm Thursday evening, street food aromas in the air, and stumbling across an open-air chess club. That’s Chess ‘n Chill—a free, friendly pop-up that’s transforming Old Spitalfields Market into a buzzing community chess hub every Thursday from April through September.
What’s It All About?
Every Thursday evening, from 6pm to 8pm, between 24 April and end of September, Old Spitalfields Market sets up chessboards next to The Kitchens—right near Chai Guys. And it’s open to everyone: from total beginners to seasoned players.
Chess In Schools and Communities (CSC)—a charity known for introducing chess into classrooms—partners on the event, providing a tutor on hand to pair players and offer tips. It’s perfect for anyone who:
Wants to learn chess
Craves a relaxed social evening after work
Just wants to hang out with friends in a lively East London market
Expect Community, Chess & Great Food
It’s part hangout, part chess lesson, and all good vibes. Street food vendors stay open late, so you can grab a bao or burrito and drop into a game mid-bite. The market’s atmosphere—people shopping, chatting, laughing—makes it feel less like a tournament and more like a friendly neighbourhood hang.
Why It Matters
1. Free & Inclusive
No charge, no chess rating required. Just show up, play your best moves—or learn them on the spot.
2. Chess Meets Community
CSC launched Chess ‘n Chill in April, and it’s already drawing neighbours, commuters, school kids, and casual passersby. Even BBC News swung by to interview CSC CEO Malcolm Pein on opening night.
3. Season-Long Vibes
This isn’t a one-off. It’s a staple of summer evenings in Spitalfields—every Thursday, all summer long.
How to Get Involved
When: Thursdays, 6pm–8pm, now through end-September
Where: Old Spitalfields Market, next to The Kitchens off Horner Square (near Chai Guys)
Cost: None!
Who’s it for: Everyone—beginners, pros, kids, adults
Just turn up, grab a board, and join in. No need to book, but feel free to bring a friend.
Insider Tips
Arrive early to get a prime board by the food stalls
Bring your own chess set or clock if you’re a serious player, though stand tables usually have boards
Stay awhile—it’s relaxed and you can stay for one quick game or play through the evening
Try something new—grab street food and chat with locals between moves
What People Are Saying
“A casual Thursday chess night in the heart of Spitalfields… it’s the perfect after-work unwind.” – That’s Up London
“Chess ‘n Chill is completely free and open to players of all standards.” – Chess In Schools and Communities
Final Move: Why Chess ‘n Chill Works
It’s a simple formula: good company, good food, and the timeless joy of chess—all in one of East London’s most atmospheric spaces. Whether you’re there to sharpen your Sicilian Defence, meet your neighbours, or just unwind over a bao, this pop-up is exactly the kind of low-key, high-vibe evening London needs right now.
Follow @Londonyaar for more hidden gems, local events, and pop-ups like Chess ‘n Chill. Share this post and bring a friend—it’s checkmate waiting to happen!