Explore the fun range of gaming events on your doorstep
Alongside SPARK!’s new youth-led gaming events series, Playable Worlds, as part of Chelmsford Science Festival 2026, October is packed with opportunities to play, create, learn and connect with the local gaming community.
From tabletop and classic games to retro gaming, tournaments, game development and opportunities to hear from local gaming businesses, there’s something for everyone happening across Chelmsford, Maldon, Witham and Brentwood.
> Arcade, Retro & Speciality Gaming
Chelmsford Tech Meetup, FREE
Patch Places, Chelmsford: 1st Oct, 7-10pm
Hear about a new Game Jam, form a team and share ideas to launch the challenge. Plus, discover local gaming businesses and studios via short talks, Q&As and product showcases. Find out more
Retro Gaming Sessions, FREE
Voodoo Keller Bar, Chelmsford: 4th Oct, 12-6pm
Part of the Chelmsford Cocktail Weekend, featuring retro arcade consoles and nostalgic multiplayer classics. Find out more
Retro Gaming from Melee, £6
Hot Box, Chelmsford: 6th Oct, at 7pm
Newcomers and veterans welcome to take part in this monthly Melee tournament.
Find out more
> Dominoes, Chess & Classic Strategy
Roots Chelmsford Dominoes, Jamaican Style, FREE
Hot Box, Chelmsford: 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st Oct, at 6pm
Fast-paced, authentic Jamaican-style dominoes paired with great vibes and community music. Find out more
Chelmsford Chess Club, FREE
Hot Box, Chelmsford: 26th Oct, at 6pm
Test your tactics and strategic thinking in a relaxed venue setting.
Find out more
> Tabletop, Trading Card Game tournaments & Role-Playing Game Hubs
Geek Retreat Events, £8-£35
Geek Retreat, Chelmsford: Multiple events 3rd – 28th Oct, times vary
From Trading Card Game tournaments to role-playing sessions, Geek Retreat is running a full month of tabletop action.
Find out more
Galleywood Games Club, FREE
Galleywood Library, Chelmsford: 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th Oct, 2:30-4:30pm
Informal board and card games including Scrabble, Cribbage, Snakes and Ladders, Ludo, and cards, perfect for all ages.
Find out more
> Regional Tournaments & Day Events
Old World: The War at Wayland, £20
Wayland Games Centre, Brentwood: 10th Oct, 10am - 7pm
Miniature wargaming strategy at its finest for fans of tabletop battles.
Find out more
BLKOUT Casual Tournament, £10
Wayland Games Centre, Brentwood: 18th Oct, 11am-6pm
Competitive yet welcoming casual gaming matches for local players.
Find out more
Board Game Bonanza, FREE
Edda Café, Witham: 20th Oct, 7-9pm
A community gather-and-play event for tabletop enthusiasts in Witham.
Find out more
If you’re a regular attendee at any of these events or it’s your first time, why not share your experience with us and submit a blog post? It can be in writing, as a drawing or as a vlog, we’d love to hear your story! Click here to find out more.
