Best Chess Sets in the UK - A Buyers Guide

Apr 03, 2025

Discovering the Perfect Wooden Chess Set in the UK

When it comes to selecting the ideal chess set, especially for those with a discerning eye, nothing quite compares to a beautifully crafted wooden chess set. Whether you're a casual player, an avid enthusiast, or a seasoned collector, owning a high-quality set offers more than just a way to play the game—it offers an experience.

At The Official Staunton Chess Company, we’ve been supplying fine chess sets to the UK and worldwide markets for over two decades. And in that time, we've come to understand what truly makes a wooden chess set stand out. In today’s blog, we’ll guide you through the ins and outs of choosing the right set, and why a wooden Staunton chess set remains the gold standard.

Why Choose a Wooden Chess Set?

Wood has always been the material of choice for serious chess players. Its natural grain, warm tones, and weight lend an air of sophistication and permanence that plastic or glass simply can’t match. For centuries, master craftsmen have carved kings, queens, knights, and pawns out of hardwoods such as boxwood, ebony, rosewood, and walnut.

Whether you're playing in a quiet study or displaying your set in the living room, a wooden chess set adds elegance and character to any setting.

What Makes a Great Wooden Chess Set?

1. Craftsmanship

Not all chess sets are created equal. A mass-produced board will never match the artistry of a hand-carved set. At Official Staunton, our craftsmen follow time-honoured methods to shape each piece with care. Details like the knight’s mane, the crown of the king, and the baize-lined bases are all signs of quality.

2. Wood Type

Choosing the right wood is crucial. For example:

Boxwood is traditionally used for white pieces.
Ebonised boxwood offers a rich black finish without the high cost of ebony.
Acacia provides a honey-coloured tone, ideal for a rustic or vintage look.
Sheesham (golden rosewood) adds striking contrast on the board.
Walnut and maple make a beautiful combination for inlaid chessboards.

These materials aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re also durable, meaning your investment will last for generations.

3. Weight and Balance

Weighted pieces offer better stability, ensuring they don’t tip over easily during play. This is particularly important for players who value precision and speed. Look for terms like “double-weighted” or “triple-weighted” in the product specs.

4. Board Size and Square Dimensions

A common question we get is: “What size board suits my chess pieces?” A good rule of thumb is that the base of the king should occupy around 75% of the square.

For example:

A 3.75-inch king pairs perfectly with a 20-inch board (2.25-inch squares).
A 4-inch tournament-sized set often goes with a 21 or 22-inch board.

Spotlight: Our Most Popular Wooden Chess Sets

The British Series Chess Set
Crafted from ebonised and natural boxwood, this 4-inch king set comes with a 19-inch walnut board and a solid mahogany box. A bestseller for both casual players and tournament prep.

The Imperial Ebony & Boxwood Chess Pieces
A luxury set featuring a commanding 4.25-inch king and heavily weighted bases. Pairs beautifully with our 23-inch Italian-made mahogany board.

The 1850 London Chessmen Replica
Painstakingly reproduced from original Jaques antiques. Includes the famed “1850 London” stamp, green felt base, and a lozenge. Ideal for serious collectors.

A Word on Staunton: Why It Still Matters

The Staunton pattern, introduced in 1849, remains the definitive chess piece design. Its recognisable and standardised form is required in tournament play. At Official Staunton, we’re proud to continue the tradition, offering authentic Staunton pieces that remain faithful to the originals in both form and finish.

We’ve even supplied sets to prestigious institutions like The House of Commons, The British Chess Federation, and the world’s leading chess players. When you buy from us, you’re investing in history as much as craftsmanship.

Delivery, Warranty & UK Support

We understand the importance of peace of mind. That’s why:

All our chess sets come with a 3-year warranty.
We offer tracked UK delivery, and international shipping is available.
Our customer service is local, based in Shropshire, and always ready to help.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Set That’s Right for You

Whether you're a beginner buying your first set or a veteran collector adding to a growing portfolio, we’ve got something to match your taste and budget. Wooden chess sets are more than just playing tools—they’re heirlooms, works of art, and conversation pieces.

So, if you’re looking to buy a wooden Staunton chess set in the UK, browse our collection and discover what makes Official Staunton the most trusted name in the game.

Browse our full collection of chess sets today and experience the craftsmanship trusted by chess lovers around the world.

Back to News