Places to play chess in Old Heath, Colchester. The Hollyhock Café on the Rec has chess sets to borrow to use inside or out and a chess table with two boards.
Hollyhock Cafe, Old Pavilion, Old Heath Recreation Ground, Recreation Road, Colchester CO1 2HE.
The cafe aims is to support the local community, through coffee, chats, and most importantly, cake!
As well as holding chess sets for use on the nearby outdoor table, there are some boards for use inside if there is space. If you want a less-intense sporting experience, you can also borrow a basketball, football or table tennis set.
Since mid August 2026, open 7 days a week, 9am until 5pm. Check the social media for changes to opening times and for events, which can be in the evening.
Interactive map/directions https://mapcarta.com/W616197942 (still shown as GO4 Cafe)
