Pimlico Chess Club was formed in 2011. It was the first chess club to be registered as a charity. Its predecessor was the Home Office and Justice Chess Club (previously the Home Office Chess Club). James Toon was the driving force behind the transformation to the thriving, open to all, club it now is.

PCC currently have over 40 members and run 8 teams. Four teams play in the London Public Service League, three in the Central London League and one in the London League. The Central London League is administered by PCC.

The club’s season runs from the beginning of September to the end of June. During the season, the club is open every Thursday evening except for public holidays. Membership costs £45 per annum, which is reduced for the first season and for juniors (u18) to £25. Members are expected to join the English Chess Federation.

PCC also organise an open tournament in the summer. This is a 5 round swiss with 3 sections. Games are played on 5 consecutive Thursday evenings.

The club organises an internal championship which runs throughout the season. This provides the opportunity for members to play ECF graded games over and above those available in team matches.

Unfortunately, the club is currently unable to provide coaching facilities for beginners. However, in conjunction with Chess in Schools, PCC has established a free of charge, community chess club at nearby Pimlico Library. This runs from 6pm to 8pm on Monday evenings, with some closures during the school holidays. Beginners are welcome at these sessions.