Henry Ernest Atkins (20 August 1872 - 31 January 1955) was a British chess player. Born in Leicester, he was educated at Wyggeston Grammar School for Boys and Cambridge University, where he studied mathematics.. Following teaching appointments in Northampton and at his old school, he was appointed principal of what later became Huddersfield New College in 1909, a post he occupied until his retirement.

On nine occasions (1905-1911, 1924 and 1925) he won the British Chess Championship. His only appearances in major international tournaments were separated by a gap of 20 years: Hanover in 1902, where he was placed 3rd behind Janowski and Pillsbury, and London in 1922, won by Capablanca.

In 1950 he was awarded the International Master title by FIDE.

Further reading

H.E.Atkins: Doyen of British Chess Champions by R.N.Coles (Pitman 1952)