8th Brighton Summer Open – 20th to 23rd August 2026

The perfect warm-up before the World Team Championships in London

The 8th Brighton Summer Open will take place from Thursday 20th to Sunday 23rd August 2026, immediately before the World Team Championships in London (starting 24th August).

With only two hours’ travel between Brighton and London, it’s the ideal chance to enjoy the wonderful seaside atmosphere of cosmopolitan Brighton before heading into the hustle and bustle of the capital. To make travel even easier, we plan to organise pre-bookable direct transfers between the two venues (see details below).

Tournament Schedule

As always, both Masters and Intermediate flights will be offered, providing competitive play for all levels.

• Thursday 20th August – Side events during the day, followed by the Warm-Up and prestigious Super-Jackpot (7:00pm).
• Friday 21st August – Main competition begins at 12:00pm with a 9-point, double-elimination continuous Swiss format: five rounds.
• Saturday 22nd August – Four further rounds from 12:00pm. At 11:30am the 7-point Progressive Consolation begins. Evening highlight: Consultation Doubles (5-point matches), 7:00pm, continuing into Sunday.
• Sunday 23rd August – Final rounds of the Main, concluding the Progressive Consolation, plus the Farewell Tournament (11:00am).

Venue & Accommodation

The tournament returns to the elegant Paganini Ballrooms at the Old Ship Hotel. Discount codes for accommodation will be available shortly.

Why Brighton?

Brighton is one of the UK’s most attractive destinations for international players:

• A vibrant seaside city just 30 minutes by train from Gatwick Airport.
• Only two hours from London.
• Home to hundreds of exceptional restaurants serving cuisine from around the world.
• A wide range of accommodation to suit every budget.

It’s the perfect opportunity to bring family or friends — there’s plenty for them to enjoy while you play backgammon.

Transfers to London

We propose to offer direct coach transport from outside the Old Ship Hotel on Monday morning (24th August), arriving at the Mercure Hotel / Conference Centre in Earl’s Court by 11:00am.

• A Sunday evening option may also be available.
• Costs will be similar to a taxi + train + underground journey, but faster, more convenient, and far less hassle.
• Final price to be confirmed.