Chelsea History Festival

Follow expert guide Edward Richards on a British Sign Language (BSL) tour of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Join the Royal Hospital Chelsea Tour Guides in conversation with Martin Cawthorne, author of The Royal Hospital Chelsea at War, as they explore the wartime history of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Step back in time and explore daily life during the Second World War with military historian Paul Hunt at the Soane Stable Yard.

Step back in time at Living History at the Soane Stable Yard, where a vibrant cast of reenactors brings Chelsea’s extraordinary past to life, from the days of Roman Londinium to the revolutionary spirit of the 20th century.

Cut, stick and create your own colourful collage inspired by places, journeys and stories. A fun, relaxed workshop for families using recycled materials.

Join artist Sarah Stadler for a relaxing and inspiring introduction to watercolour painting in the beautiful surroundings of the Soane Stable Yard.

Join Sir Christopher Wren himself for a lively, family-friendly 30-minute tour of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. These free guided walks offer a rare chance to explore the historic heart of the site with the man who designed it  or at least, the next best thing

Chelsea Pensioner Roy Palmer, our resident poet, shares his powerful, factual poetry inspired by his life, his beloved wife Muriel, and the stories that shaped him. Join this special session to hear Roy read his work and reflect on an extraordinary life lived with humour, love and resilience

Join us for an intimate performance of powerful storytelling through music in the Soane Stable Yard with countertenor Tom Lilburn and theorbo player Daniel Murphy