Chess Clubs in Plymouth, Connecticut. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Plymouth, CT and Surrounding Areas
Chess players in Plymouth and nearby communities have several options for organized play, from casual meetups to competitive tournaments. These clubs welcome players of all ages and skill levels throughout the greater Waterbury region.
1. Plymouth Community Chess Club
Location: Plymouth Center School – 191 Main Street, Plymouth, CT 06782
Description: This school-based club meets weekly during the academic year, offering instruction and casual play for students and community members. The Plymouth Community Chess Club focuses on fundamentals for beginners while providing challenge games for experienced players. Special family chess nights are held monthly.
2. Terryville Library Chess Group
Location: Terryville Public Library – 238 Main Street, Terryville, CT 06786
Description: Just minutes from downtown Plymouth, this library-based group meets bi-weekly for casual play. The Terryville Library Chess Group maintains a relaxed atmosphere perfect for seniors and new players. The library provides chess sets and a small collection of instructional books.
3. Bristol Chess Academy
Location: Bristol Boys & Girls Club – 255 West Street, Bristol, CT 06010
Description: Located 15 minutes from Plymouth, this youth-focused program offers structured lessons and tournament preparation. The Bristol Chess Academy hosts rated scholastic tournaments and provides mentoring from experienced players. Adult sessions are available on weekend afternoons.
4. Thomaston Chess Society
Location: Thomaston Senior Center – 1 Davis Street, Thomaston, CT 06787
Description: Approximately 10 minutes from Plymouth, this club meets weekly with a focus on adult players. The Thomaston Chess Society organizes casual tournaments and maintains a lending library of chess DVDs and strategy books. Beginner lessons are offered quarterly.
5. Waterbury Chess Club
Location: Waterbury YMCA – 136 West Main Street, Waterbury, CT 06702
Description: About 20 minutes from Plymouth, this competitive club meets twice weekly. The Waterbury Chess Club hosts USCF-rated tournaments and attracts strong players from across the region. Casual play nights are available for newcomers on Fridays.
6. Wolcott Chess Collective
Location: Wolcott Recreation Center – 48 Todd Road, Wolcott, CT 06716
Description: Located 20 minutes from Plymouth, this community group offers a balanced program of instruction and competition. The Wolcott Chess Collective runs monthly themed tournaments (rapid, blitz, bughouse) and maintains an active chess ladder system.
Regional Tournament Opportunities:
The Northwest Connecticut Chess Circuit includes quarterly tournaments rotating between Plymouth, Bristol, and Waterbury locations. These events feature Open, U1600, and Scholastic sections with cash prizes in adult divisions.
Club Features:
USCF-rated tournament options
Scholastic development programs
Senior chess initiatives
Chess libraries and video resources
Mentoring programs
Travel teams for inter-club matches
Most venues provide equipment, though tournament players should bring their own clocks. The Plymouth area offers particularly strong scholastic chess opportunities through school partnerships. Players should contact clubs directly for current schedules as meeting times may vary seasonally.
