Chester Pride 2026 returns Saturday 15 August at Castle Square, Chester

LGBTQ+ Speed Friending in Chester

Chester Pride's LGBTQ+ Speed Friending events help people meet new faces in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Designed to make introductions easier, these structured events provide opportunities to connect with a variety of people in a single evening without the pressure of traditional networking or social events.

A Simple Way to Meet New People

Whether you're new to Chester, attending your first LGBTQ+ event or simply looking to expand your social circle, Speed Friending offers a straightforward way to start conversations and make new connections.

How LGBTQ+ Speed Friending Works

Short Structured Conversations

Participants take part in a series of brief one-to-one conversations, allowing everyone the opportunity to meet multiple people during the event.

Relaxed and Informal Environment

The format removes much of the pressure often associated with approaching strangers, making it easier to start conversations naturally.

Meet More People in One Evening

Unlike traditional social events, Speed Friending gives everyone the opportunity to connect with a wider range of attendees in a short amount of time.

Who Is Speed Friending For?

Speed Friending is open to LGBTQ+ people aged 18 and over who want to meet others in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

New to Chester

Perfect for those who have recently moved to the area and want to meet people locally.

Attending Alone

Many attendees come on their own and use the event as an easy introduction to the local LGBTQ+ community.

Looking to Expand Your Social Circle

A great opportunity to meet people outside your usual friendship group.

Hosted at Storyhouse Chester

Our Speed Friending events take place at Storyhouse, one of Chester's most popular cultural and community venues.

The venue provides a welcoming and accessible environment that is easy to reach from across Chester, Cheshire and North Wales.

How to Attend

Tickets are free, but advance booking is required as places are limited.

Reserve Your Place

Bookings are managed through Storyhouse, with a new booking link released for each event.

Stay Updated

Upcoming dates are announced through Chester Pride's social media channels and community updates.

Continue Building Connections

Many attendees go on to join Chester Pride social groups, workshops and community activities after attending Speed Friending.

Join Out + About

Continue meeting people through our regular LGBTQ+ social group.

Discover More Activities

Explore workshops and community events happening throughout the year.

Meet New People in a Friendly Environment

Whether you're looking to make friends, expand your social circle or simply meet other LGBTQ+ people in Chester, Speed Friending provides an easy and welcoming place to start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Speed Friending events free?

Yes. Tickets are free, although booking is required.

Do I need to come with someone?

No. Many attendees come on their own and use the event as a way to meet new people.

Where do events take place?

Events are held at Storyhouse in Chester city centre.

How long do conversations last?

Conversation lengths vary depending on the event format, but everyone gets the opportunity to meet multiple people.

How do I hear about future events?

Future events are announced through Chester Pride's social media channels and community communications.

Get in touch