London System

ECO D02, A46 · Level: Beginner · Also known as: London System, Londra açılışı

The London System sets up the same solid structure (d4, Bf4, e3, c3, Nf3, Nbd2) almost regardless of Black's moves. It is the easiest 1.d4 system to learn.

Position at the end of the main line

Main line

1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 Nf6 3.e3 e6 4.Nf3 c5 5.c3 Nc6 6.Nbd2 Bd6 7.Bg3

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History

It owes its name to the 1922 London tournament. Long dismissed as dull, it became hugely popular thanks to players like Carlsen and Kamsky.

White's plan

  • The bishop comes to f4 before e3, so it is not shut in behind the pawns.
  • The c3-d4-e3 triangle is very solid; Ne5 and h4-h5 can start a kingside attack.
  • The same plans work against almost everything, with little theory.

Black's plan

  • ...c5 and ...Qb6 pressuring b2 is one of the most effective counter-ideas.
  • Trading the f4 bishop with ...Bd6 neutralises White's best piece.

Key variations

...d5 and ...c5 set-up

1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 Nf6 3.e3 c5 4.c3 Nc6 5.Nd2 Qb6 6.Qb3

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Against a King's Indian set-up

1.d4 Nf6 2.Bf4 g6 3.e3 Bg7 4.Nf3 O-O 5.Be2 d6 6.h3

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Who should play it?

For White players at any level who want solid, understandable positions without memorising theory.

Frequently asked questions

Is the London System good for beginners?

Yes. The set-up is always the same, so it is quick to learn and hard to go badly wrong.

How should Black meet the London?

Pressuring b2 with ...c5 and ...Qb6, or trading the bishop with ...Bd6, are the most common recommendations.

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Related openings

  • Queen's Gambit — The Queen's Gambit (1.d4 d5 2.c4) offers the c-pawn to lure Black's d5 pawn away from the centre.
  • King's Indian Defence — The King's Indian lets White build a big centre first, then counter-attacks with the g7 bishop and the ...e5 and ...f5 pawn breaks.
  • Réti Opening — The Réti Opening (1.Nf3) controls the centre from a distance with pieces and the c4 push instead of occupying it with pawns.

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