Keen chess players can now meet for an open-air game in the spectacular setting of Trinity Square.
Visit Hull has installed four outdoor chessboards on existing picnic benches in the square, providing a pleasant location to meet and enjoy a leisurely game, overlooked by Hull Minster and the statue of Hull poet Andrew Marvell.
The chessboards offer people another reason to spend time in Trinity Square, which was transformed ahead of Hull’s year as UK City of Culture 2017.
It is hoped they will also attract more visitors to the minster and surrounding businesses, several of which are supporting the project by holding the chess pieces for people to borrow.
Hull Minster, The Head of Steam, Hearth Restaurant & Bakery and The Kingston pub are all holding playing sets, which can be borrowed for a £5 returnable deposit.
The project builds on the success of The British Chess Championships, which were brought to the city by the Hull & District Chess Association in partnership with Hull City Council in 2021.
Cllr Paul Drake-Davis, Hull City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, said: “As well as hosting the British Chess Championships last year, Hull has a great relationship with chess going back many years.
“The installation of these chess boards at the heart of Hull’s Old Town provides a fitting location for people to enjoy a game steeped in centuries of history.
“Anyone can come along and enjoy a game in the wonderful surrounding of Trinity Square and perhaps support our local businesses while they are there.”
Junior chess in Hull is also on the rise. Maksym Larchikov, a 12-year-old Ukrainian refugee, recently led a team of the city’s best young players to victory over London as part of Chess Fest, the sport’s biggest public-facing event in the UK.
For more information on the Hull and District Chess Association, visit hullchess.com.
Visit Hull is Hull City Council’s tourism team, which works to develop the city into a world-class visitor destination.
