London Chess and Bridge Centre, Baker Street
This shop has four tables on the street outside, with boards and pieces set up, presumably only when the shop is open. A sign says anyone is welcome to play. The shop itself is also well worth a visit, and a great place to buy a set of pieces to take with you to other tables. Here's their website.
Access:
Tables are on the street at street level. They are also covered overhead so some shelter is provided.Ruskin Park, Camberwell
Two concrete chess tables with permanent seats. According to the park's website, chess pieces may be available to rent.
Access:
According to park opening hours. Step free from the street. The tables themselves are on grass just off one of the tarmac paths, to the south of the outdoor gym.Russell Square, Bloomsbury
Three stone chess tables with permanent metal chairs; a sign says pieces may be rented from the cafe. Unfortunately the tables don't have very much space around the edges, so there's not really room for a clock. More information at the website.
Access:
According to park opening hours. Step free from the street, a small patch of grass/ mud between path and tables, which are on astroturf. The tables are in the north west corner of the park, near the cafe.Cavell Square Gardens, Whitechapel
Two concrete chess tables with permanent seats.
