For The Crown: Chess & Chat

For The Crown: Chess & Chat comes to Siren Craft Brew on Wednesday 11 November, starting at 18:00. It's a social chess session run by R.S.V.P. (Raps, Songs, Vibes, Poems), and the whole point is to get people together around a board for a bit of a game and a chat.

If you've never played, it's a good place to start. They encourage people to try the game for the first time, and if you already know your way around a chessboard, you can play new opponents and talk with people you wouldn't usually cross paths with. All skill levels are welcome, and you don't need to bring a partner — you'll find someone to play with on the night.

It's open to all ages, genders and abilities, so it's as much about the social side as the chess. R.S.V.P. is the group behind it, and they've set it up as a welcoming, low-pressure evening. They do advise registering in advance, which is worth doing if you're planning to head along.

The venue is Siren Craft Brew, at 1 Friars Walk, Reading RG1 1HP, a short walk from Reading Station. Entry is free, so you can just turn up and play. It kicks off at 18:00 on Wednesday 11 November.