Free outdoor chess tables open on Berwick Quayside at noon on Saturday 24 October, made in Berwick from Old Bridge stone, with pieces to borrow from the YHA.

Berwick-upon-Tweed is getting free outdoor chess tables on its Quayside, and they will be unveiled at 12 noon on Saturday 24 October.

Anyone can come along to the launch and play a game, whatever their age or standard. The tables take chess and draughts, and they will stay covered until the launch.

The project was led by Nicole Brooke, the county councillor for Berwick North, with the support of Northumberland County Council.

Built in Berwick, from Old Bridge stone

The tables were made by Fabvent, a Berwick business, from Roluna stone. It is the same stone that has been used in repairs to Berwick’s Old Bridge. The chequerboards were printed by Fantasy Prints, another firm in the town.

Keeping the work local was the point, Cllr Brooke said. “I wanted to create something that people of all ages could enjoy, while making sure the investment stayed here in Berwick.

“We have some fantastic local businesses, and it’s wonderful to see their craftsmanship contributing to something that residents and visitors can enjoy for years to come.

“The tables are completely free to use, and I hope they become a popular meeting place on the Quayside.”

Borrow the pieces from the YHA

You do not need to bring your own set. Chess pieces, and wool throws for colder days, can be borrowed from Berwick YHA for a refundable deposit, so the tables can be used all year round.

A schools competition next summer

Cllr Brooke wants the tables to lead to an inter-school chess competition next summer, bringing Berwick’s schools together and getting more young people playing.

“Chess is a brilliant way to bring generations together,” she said. “I’d love to see our schools competing next summer. Who knows, we might discover Berwick’s next grandmaster!”

The tables are part of wider work to improve Berwick’s public spaces, support local businesses and give residents and visitors new things to do.

Launch details

  • When: Saturday 24 October 2026, 12 noon
  • Where: Berwick Quayside, Berwick-upon-Tweed
  • Cost: free, open to everyone
  • Pieces: borrow a set from Berwick YHA for a refundable deposit

Read our earlier Berwick story: the town flag raised at Newfields.