London Chess Classic

The flagship of British chess. Brought elite chess back to London, the city that hosted the first international tournament in 1851.

London's Chess Revival

Held at the Olympia Conference Centre in Kensington, the London Classic brought world-class chess back to a city with deep chess roots. London hosted the first international chess tournament in 1851, and the 1866 and 1886 World Championship matches. The Classic continued this tradition, becoming a Grand Chess Tour anchor and one of the most prestigious events on the modern calendar. Malcolm Pein, the tournament director, built it into an event that combines elite chess with a massive amateur festival.