Chess Clubs in Granby, Connecticut. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Granby, CT and Surrounding Areas
Chess players in Granby and the northern Hartford County region have access to several clubs that welcome players of all ages and skill levels. These organizations provide opportunities for casual play, competitive matches, and chess education in a welcoming environment.
1. Granby Chess Club
Location: Granby Public Library – 15 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035
Description: The Granby Chess Club meets weekly at the public library, offering a friendly atmosphere for players of all abilities. The club focuses on skill development through casual games and strategy discussions, with experienced members available to mentor beginners. Regular activities include open play sessions and occasional rapid chess tournaments.
2. Simsbury Chess Society
Location: Simsbury Public Library – 725 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury, CT 06070
Description: Located 15 minutes from Granby, this active club meets bi-weekly for both recreational and competitive play. The Simsbury Chess Society attracts players from across the Farmington Valley and hosts quarterly rated tournaments. The group maintains an extensive collection of chess literature.
3. East Granby Chess Academy
Location: East Granby Public Library – 24 Center Street, East Granby, CT 06026
Description: Just 10 minutes from Granby, this club offers structured chess instruction alongside regular play opportunities. The East Granby Chess Academy organizes beginner workshops and maintains relationships with scholastic chess programs in local schools.
4. Suffield Chess Collective
Location: Kent Memorial Library – 50 North Main Street, Suffield, CT 06078
Description: Approximately 15 minutes from Granby, this community-focused club meets weekly for casual play and skill development. The Suffield Chess Collective emphasizes a welcoming environment for families and new players, with dedicated beginner sessions.
5. Windsor Locks Chess Club
Location: Windsor Locks Public Library – 28 Main Street, Windsor Locks, CT 06096
Description: Located 20 minutes from Granby, this established club provides competitive opportunities while remaining accessible to casual players. The Windsor Locks Chess Club hosts rated tournaments and attracts players from across the region.
6. Avon Chess Group
Location: Avon Free Public Library – 281 Country Club Road, Avon, CT 06001
Description: About 20 minutes from Granby, this club offers a sophisticated chess environment with weekly meetings. The Avon Chess Group features strong players and regularly hosts guest lectures from masters and tournament directors.
Regional Tournament Opportunities:
The Northern Connecticut Chess League hosts biannual tournaments rotating between Granby, Simsbury, and Avon locations. These events feature Open, U1600, and Scholastic divisions with trophies for youth categories.
Club Features:
USCF-rated tournament options
Scholastic development programs
Senior chess initiatives
Chess libraries and study materials
Mentoring partnerships
Inter-club competitions
Most clubs provide equipment, though tournament players should bring their own clocks. The Granby area offers particularly strong opportunities for family chess participation through its network of community clubs. Players should contact venues directly for current schedules as meeting times may vary seasonally.
