The History of Chessmaze: Supplying Quality Chess Sets Since 1993

Chess is more than a game—it’s an art, a science, and a tradition passed down through generations. At Chessmaze, we have proudly carried that tradition forward since 1993, when our family business first set out to bring beautifully crafted chess sets and boards to players across the UK.

Over the past three decades, we’ve grown from a small retailer with a simple mission—to supply quality chess sets at fair prices—into one of the UK’s most trusted names in chess. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps, a club player sharpening your skills, or a collector searching for a luxury Staunton chess set, Chessmaze has become a destination for those who value quality, craftsmanship, and heritage.

Our Beginnings in 1993

When Chessmaze was established in 1993, the world of chess retail looked very different. Online shopping was in its infancy, and finding a reliable source of high-quality chess sets wasn’t always easy. Our founders recognised a gap: many players were looking for chess sets that combined beauty with durability, sets that could be cherished for a lifetime rather than discarded after a few games.

That vision—supplying timeless chess sets built with care—guided our early years and still defines us today. From the beginning, we focused on the classic Staunton design, the standard for tournament play worldwide. Over time, we expanded our collection to include luxury wooden chess sets, themed sets for collectors, and portable travel sets for players on the move.

Growing Into a Trusted Chess Retailer

As demand for chess equipment grew, so did Chessmaze. By the late 1990s and early 2000s, our reputation for quality, customer service, and fair pricing began to spread beyond the UK. Schools, clubs, and international customers started turning to us for their chess supplies.

We became known not only for the range of products we stocked but also for the advice and support we offered. Choosing the right chess set can feel daunting—especially for beginners or gift buyers—and our team has always been dedicated to helping customers make informed choices. That commitment to service is one of the reasons we’ve been trusted for more than 30 years.

Supplying Chess Sets for Every Player

One of the strengths of Chessmaze is the diversity of our collection. We know that every chess player is unique, and so are their needs. That’s why we’ve curated a range that covers everything from entry-level chess sets to luxury statement pieces.

• Wooden Staunton Chess Sets – Timeless, elegant, and tournament-approved. Perfect for both casual and serious play.

• Luxury Chess Sets – Crafted from premium woods like ebony and rosewood, designed for collectors and connoisseurs.

• Travel Chess Sets – Compact, durable sets that allow you to enjoy chess anywhere, from long train journeys to family holidays.

• Themed Chess Sets – Historical and fantasy-inspired designs for players who want something unique and decorative.

• Electronic Chess Boards – For the modern player, boards that connect with apps and engines for training and online play.

By offering such a wide selection, we’ve made it our mission to ensure that anyone looking to buy a chess set in the UK can find exactly what they’re searching for at Chessmaze.

Why Quality Matters

Since 1993, we’ve held firm to the belief that a chess set should be more than just functional—it should be a pleasure to use and a joy to own. That’s why we carefully source sets made by skilled craftspeople, ensuring that every piece feels balanced and durable.

A quality chess set isn’t just an accessory—it’s part of the experience. The smooth weight of the pieces, the grain of the wood, and the precision of the carving all contribute to a deeper appreciation of the game. Many of our customers have told us that upgrading to a well-made Staunton chess set transformed how they felt about playing, turning casual games into meaningful moments.

Supporting the Chess Community

Beyond supplying sets, Chessmaze has always been proud to support the broader chess community. Over the years, we’ve supplied schools, chess clubs, and tournaments, helping to encourage new generations of players.

We believe that chess is one of the best tools for developing critical thinking, patience, and problem-solving skills. That’s why we’ve worked closely with teachers and organisers to make sure affordable, durable chess sets for schools and clubs are always available.

Chess in the Modern Era

When Chessmaze began in 1993, chess was played mostly across wooden boards in schools, homes, and clubs. Today, the game has expanded into the digital world, with online platforms making it possible to play anyone, anywhere, at any time. Yet, despite these changes, the physical chess set remains iconic.

Many players now enjoy the best of both worlds—training online and then playing face-to-face with a beautifully crafted chess set. The tactile experience of moving pieces across a real board can never be replaced, and at Chessmaze, we’re proud to continue supplying sets that keep the tradition alive.

Looking Ahead

After more than 30 years, Chessmaze remains committed to the same values that guided us in 1993: quality, tradition, and trust. But we also look to the future, expanding our range to include modern innovations like electronic boards, digital clocks, and collectible designs.

As chess continues to grow in popularity—thanks to streaming platforms, tournaments, and the rise of young talents around the world—we’re excited to remain at the heart of the community, supplying sets that inspire both new players and seasoned competitors.

Chessmaze’s journey from a small family business in 1993 to one of the UK’s leading suppliers of chess sets has been built on passion, dedication, and the love of the game. Whether you’re buying your very first set or adding a luxury board to your collection, we’re here to ensure you find the right match.

If you’re looking to buy quality chess sets online in the UK, explore our collection today. From classic Staunton designs to unique themed pieces, Chessmaze has something to enrich your game.