Whether you’re a seasoned player, an aspiring junior, or simply a fan of the game, 2025 is packed with exciting chess tournaments across England. From prestigious classical events to fast-paced rapidplay championships, here’s a look at the must-know events coming up. Kingdom of chess the world’s no.1 chess academy has curated the list of top upcoming Chess tournaments in London 2025: Dates, Location, Format
British Chess Championships 2025
Location: St George’s Hall, Liverpool
Dates: 31 July – 10 August 2025
England’s premier national chess tournament returns to Liverpool. Hosted at the historic St George’s Hall, with some activities held at the nearby Holiday Inn, this event features a range of championships:
- British Open
- Women’s Championship
- Senior and Junior categories
All games follow a classical time control. Entry and details will be available at:
britishchesschampionships.co.uk
English Chess Championships 2025
Location: Holiday Inn Kenilworth-Warwick
Dates: 18–21 July 2025
This 7-round classical tournament includes Open and Women’s Championships, as well as a special U1700 Women’s section. Participation is limited to players born or living in England with ECF Gold membership.
Time Control: 90 minutes + 30 seconds increment
Entry details: Available via the English Chess Federation’s website.
British Rapidplay Championship 2025
Location: Holiday Inn Peterborough West
Dates: 1–2 March 2025
A two-day national event focused on rapid chess. Open to players of all levels, including titled participants.
Format: One-section FIDE-rated tournament
Time Control: 15 minutes + 10 seconds increment
Entry: Via ECF’s portal.
3rd Cambridge International Open
Location: University Arms Hotel, Cambridge
Dates: 26–31 May 2025
This 9-round classical tournament is back for its third year. It offers chances for IM and GM norms and attracts strong national and international players.
Organizer: English Chess Federation
Registration: Through the ECF website.
Manchester Summer Chess Congress 2025
Location: University of Bolton Arena
Dates: 15–17 August 2025
A popular Northern event organized by the Manchester Chess Federation, featuring:
- Harry Lamb Memorial FIDE Open (5 rounds)
- Two class sections: Under 1930 and Under 1630
Time Control: 110 minutes + 10 seconds increment
Eligibility: ECF Gold members or above
More info: On the official congress website.
Northumbria Masters 2025
Location: Dolphin Centre, Darlington
Dates: 20–25 August 2025
One of the North East’s most anticipated chess tournaments. It’s a 9-round “Super Swiss” with:
- Open section (with norm chances)
- U2000 “Challengers”
- U1700 “Major”
Details & Registration: At northumbriamasters.com
FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Team Championships 2025
Location: Novotel London West, Hammersmith
Dates: 10–16 June 2025
London will host teams from around the world in this high-profile FIDE event.
Format:
- 12 rounds of rapid (up to 6 players per team)
- Followed by a blitz knockout round
Official Info and Registration: At worldrapidblitzteams2025.fide.com
Guide for participants : Chess tournaments in London 2025
1. Registration & Eligibility
- Membership: Most English events (like the British or English Chess Championships) require ECF Gold Membership.
- Rating Requirements: Some tournaments (e.g., norm events or class sections) may have minimum or maximum rating limits.
- Deadlines: Register well before the deadline — popular events often fill up quickly.
- Entry Confirmation: Always verify your entry is accepted and listed on the official player list.
2. Travel & Accommodation
- Book Early: Events like the British Championships in Liverpool attract players nationwide — hotels near the venue may fill fast.
- Check Venue Details: Know the exact venue address, transport options, and arrival time on Day 1.
- Plan for Delays: Arrive a day early if possible to avoid stress from travel disruptions.
3. Game Preparation
- Understand the Time Control: (e.g., 90+30 or 15+10). Practice with the same time format to build comfort.
- Bring Necessary Equipment: While boards and clocks are usually provided, bring:
- A pen for scorekeeping
- Notation sheets (some players prefer their own)
- A digital clock (for warmups or casual play)
- Stay Updated: Monitor the tournament’s website or app for round pairings and updates.
4. On-Site Conduct
- Know the Rules: Be familiar with FIDE tournament rules, especially about:
- Touch-move
- Use of mobile phones (usually prohibited)
- Draw offers
- Respect the Environment: Quiet play, no distractions — especially in classical events.
- Be On Time: Most events use strict forfeiture rules (lose the game if late by 30+ minutes).
Bonus Tips:
- Bring ID: Some tournaments may verify eligibility on-site.
- Social Media & Photos: Some events share photos online — check if opt-outs are available.
- Parents & Juniors: For junior events, ensure parental supervision if required by the organizer.
Plan Your 2025 Chess Season
Whether you’re planning to compete or just want to immerse yourself in the chess scene, these tournaments offer great opportunities for improvement, recognition, and connection with the wider chess community. Be sure to register early and prepare well.
| Tournament | Dates | Location | Format | Organizer | Entry / Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| British Chess Championships 2025 | 31 July – 10 August 2025 | St George’s Hall, Liverpool (plus Liverpool Holiday Inn) | Classical (Swiss) | English Chess Federation (ECF) | britishchesschampionships.co.uk |
| English Chess Championships 2025 | 18–21 July 2025 | Holiday Inn Kenilworth-Warwick (Kenilworth, CV8 1ED) | Classical (7-round) | English Chess Federation | englishchess.org.uk/english-championships-2025 |
| British Rapidplay Championship 2025 | 1–2 March 2025 | Holiday Inn Peterborough West, Peterborough PE3 6SG | Rapid (15+10) | British Isles Chess (ECF/BICC) | Official ECF info and entry form (JotForm) |
| Cambridge International Open 2025 (3rd) | 26–31 May 2025 | University Arms Hotel, Cambridge | Classical (9-round) | English Chess Federation | englishchess.org.uk/3rd-cambridge-international-open |
| Manchester Summer Congress 2025 | 15–17 August 2025 | University of Bolton Arena, Bolton BL6 6LB | Classical (5-round) | Manchester Chess Federation | congress.org.uk (Manchester 2025) |
| Northumbria Masters 2025 (Darlington) | 20–25 August 2025 | Dolphin Centre, Darlington DL1 5RP | Classical (Super Swiss, 9-round Open + sections) | Northumbria Masters Organisers (ECF-supported) | northumbriamasters.com |
| FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Team 2025 | 10–16 June 2025 | Novotel London West (Hammersmith), London | Rapid & Blitz (team) | FIDE (World chess federation) | worldrapidblitzteams2025.fide.com |
