Comprehensive Directory of Places to Play (Worldwide)

Bill Tomlinson has compiled the most comprehensive list of chess sites to date. This list lists streets, parks, beaches, bookstores, and cafes where chess players get together and play. He requests new information and his only criteria is that the place is free of hassle, no notice required for visiting. Exclusive clubs will have to provide specific details when submitting.

His list is broken down into "Hangouts," which are places where "chess just happens" such as coffee shops, bookstores, pubs, eateries, under bridges, etc.  The second half of the list is comprised of functioning, legitimate "Chess Clubs" with regular hours. Sites which require memberships are not listed with the exception of a one-time charge.

There are no resources listed for the African, Caribbean, and Middle Eastern regions; however,  the island of Tahiti has an entry! Let the world know where you are! This is a very valuable site and when combined with
ChessBase's Tournament Listing, it becomes a chess players "grapevine." Great job!!

Bill Tomlinson's Directory of Places to Play

Posted by The Chess Drum: 9 May 2003

Qualo playing outdoor chess under castle in the rain (Salzburg, Austria).

Qualo playing outdoor chess under castle in the rain (Salzburg, Austria).