Chelsea History Festival

Conducted personally by one of the Chelsea Pensioners, this tour transports participants from the dawn of Restoration England through to the Napoleonic Wars and into the austerity of two World Wars.

Discover the history, beauty, and stories of the Royal Hospital Chelsea by joining one of our guided tours during the Chelsea History Festival. You’ll explore some of the most stunning historic buildings in London and gain an insider’s perspective on what life is like as part of this unique community.

Step into the daily life of the Chelsea Pensioners through a hands-on encounter with objects and stories from the Royal Hospital’s history.

Explore Ranelagh Gardens on a relaxed one-hour walk through the historic woodland at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Join us in our beautiful State Apartments for a fascinating talk with Paul French, a New York Times bestselling author and leading expert on Chinese history. Paul studied and worked in China for over 20 years, living in both Shanghai and Beijing, and brings this deep experience to his latest work, The Last Emperor of China, which highlights the previously overlooked stories of the women who surrounded the emperor and dispels long-held myths about his relationship with his wife.

Iona Ball, a seasoned tour guide, leads a captivating tour through the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Learn how this historic institution endured the turmoil of World War II. From air raids to the daily lives of the Chelsea Pensioners, you’ll gain a unique insight into how the hospital survived London’s darkest days.

Join the fascinating talk with travel writer Daniel Stables as he talks about global festivity through the journeys captured in his acclaimed book, Fiesta

Led by one of our expert Chelsea Pensioner Museum Guides, this intimate tour offers a unique perspective on centuries of military tradition, personal stories, and national heritage.

Drop in for a lively workshop exploring the colourful origins of old London slang, from cockneys and costermongers to phrases you won’t Adam and Eve.

Join us in the beautiful State Apartments for a fascinating talk with Dr Elizabeth Norton, where she tells the stories of the female kings: women who risked everything, sometimes unwillingly, to find their place in a man's world.

As the sun sets and the site falls quiet, you’ll be led by your Chelsea Pensioner Guide through the historic grounds under the cover of night – hearing stories rarely shared in the daylight. 

The incredible true story of the most fashionable and enigmatic princess of 19th century Europe and granddaughter to Queen Victoria, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Romanova.