About
A club that's been playing chess since 1956
The Wymondham Chess Club meets most Friday evenings at the Feathers Pub in Wymondham.
Junior sessions run from 17:30 to 19:00 at Wymondham Central Hall, with senior play starting at 19:30 at The Feathers. Parking is available at the rear of the venue.
Club News
From the club
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Wymondham Chess Club kicks off season with a bang
October 2026
Wymondham Chess Club makes an exciting start to its 70th season in the Norfolk County Chess Association League: with no fewer than FIVE teams in three different divisions - so offering serious chess at all levels!
Juniors
Wymondham Junior Chess Club
A community initiative dedicated to fostering the strategic game of chess among young minds. Former junior members have gone on to compete in the Norfolk Chess League at regional level.
New players are assessed and placed in a group matching their skill level, so everyone is challenged without being out of their depth. Mentorship sits at the heart of the club — guidance comes from seasoned players, many of whom started exactly where new members are now.
The club is open to all. A first session is free; after that, membership is £40 a year, which goes toward running the club and keeping the experience high-quality for everyone.
Central Hall, Back Lane, Wymondham — parking to the rear
Fridays, 17:30–19:00
Junior Q&A
Wymondham Junior Chess Club FAQ
Where is the club held?
The Junior Club get together every Friday from 17:15 - 19:15 at Central Hall, Back Lane, Wymondham Central Hall NR18 0QB located next-door to Wymondham Library. https://www.wymondhamcentralhall.org.uk/
Is there an age limit?
There is no strict age limit for joining our club. However, it is a requirement that children in Year 6 and below be accompanied by an adult during club activities. This ensures their safety and comfort, and helps them gain confidence as they interact with their peers and mentors. Parents are welcome to relax in The Feathers bar area while their children are participating in the activities.
What if I'm shy or nervous about joining the club?
It’s perfectly okay to feel shy or nervous, especially when you’re new. We understand that it can take some time to get comfortable with new surroundings and people. That’s why we have a mentorship program where previous junior members act as mentors within the club. They are there to help you settle in, answer any questions you might have, and make you feel at home. Remember, every chess master was once a beginner. We’re all here to learn and grow together!
Is there a membership fee?
Yes, there is a £36.00 membership fee to attend the junior club. We believe in making chess accessible to everyone, which is why we offer a free introductory session for all new members. Alternatively, after the introductory session, you can opt to pay a nominal fee per session if you do not wish to become a member,
Is there a safeguarding and welfare officer at the club?
Yes, we take the safety and welfare of our members very seriously. We have a dedicated Safeguarding and Welfare Officer who is SENDCo at Acorn Park School and responsible for ensuring a safe and secure environment for all our members. If you have any concerns or issues, please feel free to approach our officer for assistance. safeguarding@wymondhamchess.com
Can I be a complete novice?
To ensure that young people gain the maximum benefit from our Club, we recommend that they have a foundational understanding of chess. This includes familiarity with the various chess pieces, their respective movements, and the rules for promotion. There is a wealth of excellent resources available, including children’s books and online videos, which can help children acquire these skills. With little practice, these fundamental aspects of chess can be mastered within only a few weeks
Can chess help with cognitive development?
Absolutely, chess can be a significant booster for a child’s cognitive growth. It challenges the brain to exercise vital functions such as memory, concentration, and the ability to recognise patterns, which are essential for intellectual development.
Do I need to bring my own chess equipment to the club?
No, there’s no need to bring your own chess equipment. Our club is fully equipped with plenty of chess boards and pieces for everyone’s use. Just bring your enthusiasm for the game and we’ll provide the rest
Does chess improve academic ability?
Chess has been shown to improve problem-solving skills, which are directly applicable to subjects like mathematics and science. It also enhances logical reasoning and critical thinking, both of which are valuable across various academic disciplines
What behaviour is expected from children in the club?
At our Junior Chess Club, we believe in fostering an environment of respect, kindness, and sportsmanship. Here are some guidelines we encourage all our young members to follow:
1. Respect for Others: Treat all club members, opponents, and coaches with courtesy and respect. Remember, everyone is here to learn and enjoy the game of chess.
2. Good Sportsmanship: Winning and losing are both part of the game. Celebrate your victories humbly and accept defeats gracefully.
3. Care for Club Property: Handle chess boards, pieces, and other club property with care. Remember, they are for everyone’s use.
4. Honesty: Chess is a game of strategy and skill. There’s no place for cheating. Always play fair.
Remember, our club is a place for everyone to enjoy the beautiful game of chess. Let’s make it a positive experience.
Donate
Support the club
Donations help provide resources and keep the club a welcoming space for players of all ages and skill levels — building a community hub where people can connect, learn, and grow around the board.
Get in touchCommittee
Who's who
- PresidentBodo Rissmann
- Vice PresidentJohn Doughty
- ChairRobert Rickard
- SecretaryDan Watson
- TreasurerJake Fielder
- Junior CoordinatorEric Bradley
- Safeguarding LeadPaula-Marie Leech
Norfolk Chess Clubs
Other clubs in the county
Aylsham Chess Club
Secretary: Jeremy Bishop
Aylsham and District Ex Service and Social Club, 64 Hungate Street, Aylsham NR11 6AA
Mondays, 7:30pm · 01263 732182
Broadland Chess Club
Secretary: Martin Griffin
Viking Centre (Torben Room), Tills Road, Sprowston, Norwich NR6 7QZ
Tuesdays, 7:30pm
Fakenham Chess Club
Secretary: Bill O'Connor
The General Townshend Club, Cattle Market Street, Fakenham NR21 9AW
Tuesdays, 7:35pm
Kings Lynn Chess Club
Secretary: Vincent Palmer
The Ferry Lane Social Club, Ferry Lane, Kings Lynn PE30 1HN
Thursdays, 7:30pm · 01553 772239
Lowestoft Chess Club
Joint Secretaries: Armando Galetti & Sam Gallant
Parkhill Hotel, Oulton, Lowestoft NR32 5DQ
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Norfolk and Norwich Chess Club
Secretary: Brian Cunningham
Harford Community Centre, 10 The Lastings, Hall Road, Norwich NR4 6ET
Tuesdays, 7:30pm · 01603 908172
North Walsham Chess Club
Secretary: Damian Greef
The Phoenix Building, 1a St Nicholas Court, North Walsham NR28 9BY
Saturdays, 3:30pm
North Norfolk Chess Club
Secretary: Alan Page
Morley Club, 48 Cromer Road, Sheringham NR26 8RS
Thursdays, 7:30pm · 01263 822087
Norwich Dons Chess Club
Secretary: Graham Jones
County Arts Club, 8 Plumstead Road, Norwich NR7 9ND
Tuesdays, 7:30pm · 01603 435429
St Johns Chess Club
Secretary: David Payne
The Coachmakers Arms, 9 St Stephens Road, Norwich NR1 3SP
Thursdays, 7:30pm · 07910 743425
UEA Chess Society
Secretary: Ali Gendj
UEA, New Science Building, Norwich Research Park NR4 7TJ
Monday/Flexible, 7:30pm · 07508 749573
Wymondham Chess Club
Secretary: Dan Watson
The Feathers Public House, 13 Town Green, Wymondham NR18 0PN
Fridays, 7:30pm · 01953 605675
Articles
Around the club
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Wymondham: a South Norfolk gem
17 July 2024
Explore the charming market town of Wymondham in South Norfolk, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
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The Feathers Pub, Wymondham
16 July 2024
Discover the history and charm of The Feathers Pub in Wymondham, the club's home in the heart of Norfolk.
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Join Us
Come and play a Friday evening
The Feathers, Town Green, Wymondham — parking to the rear
Fridays, from 19:30