Chess Clubs in Ledyard, Connecticut. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Ledyard, CT and Surrounding Areas
Chess players in Ledyard and southeastern Connecticut have access to several clubs that cater to both casual enthusiasts and competitive players. These organizations provide welcoming environments for players of all ages and skill levels.
1. Ledyard Chess Club
Location: Ledyard Public Library – 718 Colonel Ledyard Highway, Ledyard, CT 06339
Description: The Ledyard Chess Club meets weekly at the town library, offering a friendly atmosphere for players to enjoy the game. The club welcomes all skill levels, from beginners learning the rules to experienced players seeking challenging matches. Regular activities include casual games, strategy discussions, and occasional instructional sessions.
2. New London Chess Society
Location: New London Public Library – 63 Huntington Street, New London, CT 06320
Description: Located 15 minutes from Ledyard, this active club meets twice weekly for both recreational and competitive play. The New London Chess Society attracts players from across the region and hosts quarterly rated tournaments. The group maintains an extensive collection of chess literature.
3. Norwich Chess Academy
Location: Otis Library – 261 Main Street, Norwich, CT 06360
Description: Approximately 20 minutes from Ledyard, this established club offers structured chess instruction alongside regular play opportunities. The Norwich Chess Academy features electronic chess boards for game analysis and hosts Connecticut Chess Association-sanctioned tournaments several times per year.
4. Groton Chess Club
Location: Groton Public Library – 52 Newtown Road, Groton, CT 06340
Description: Just 10 minutes from Ledyard, this community-focused club meets weekly for casual play and skill development. The Groton Chess Club emphasizes a welcoming environment for families and new players, with dedicated beginner sessions and intergenerational matches.
5. Mystic Chess Group
Location: Mystic Noank Library – 40 Library Street, Mystic, CT 06355
Description: Located 15 minutes from Ledyard, this club offers a relaxed setting for chess enthusiasts. The Mystic Chess Group organizes simultaneous exhibitions and themed chess nights throughout the year, focusing on both recreational enjoyment and strategic improvement.
6. Stonington Chess Collective
Location: Stonington Free Library – 20 High Street, Stonington, CT 06378
Description: About 25 minutes from Ledyard, this smaller club provides an intimate chess experience. The Stonington Chess Collective meets bi-weekly and specializes in historical chess variants alongside standard play, appealing to players interested in chess history and alternative formats.
Regional Tournament Opportunities:
Several clubs in the area collaborate to host the Southeastern Connecticut Chess Championship annually, rotating between New London, Norwich, and Groton locations. These events typically feature multiple skill divisions with prizes in open sections.
Club Features:
Regular rated tournament options
Scholastic development programs
Senior chess initiatives
Chess libraries and digital resources
Mentoring programs for new players
Inter-club team competitions
Most clubs provide equipment, though serious competitors may want to bring their own clocks. Players should verify meeting times as some clubs adjust schedules seasonally. The Ledyard area offers particularly strong opportunities for coastal Connecticut players through its network of active chess organizations.
