Events at the Royal Hospital Chelsea
Discover a range of exciting events taking place at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, from public talks and exhibitions to exclusive events for our veteran community. Whether you’re attending an iconic ceremony, exploring our historic grounds, or joining one of our many free events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Explore the upcoming internal and external events below and be part of the vibrant life at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
Upcoming Events
Chelsea Winter Village & Illuminations
Wed 26th Nov 2025 4.00pm - Sun 28th Dec 2025 10.00pmThis winter, Royal Hospital Chelsea becomes home to an immersive festive experience, bringing a seasonal celebration to the heart of one of London’s most iconic heritage settings.
Community Event: Festive celebration
Tue 16th Dec 2025 10.30am - Tue 16th Dec 2025 3.00pmJoin us in the Soane Stable Yard for a festive drop-in celebration between 10.30am and 3pm as we mark one year of dementia-inclusive activities. Expect sing-alongs from the Chelsea Pensioner Singers, performances by London’s women’s acapella group The Treblemakers, and relaxed creative activities throughout the day.
Christmas with Elvis
Tue 16th Dec 2025 6.00pm - Tue 16th Dec 2025 8.30pmBack by overwhelming demand, the King returns to London this December in support of the Chelsea Pensioners Veterans Outreach Programme.
Christmas Carol Services
Thu 18th Dec 2025 6.30pm - Thu 18th Dec 2025 9.00pmSOLD OUT
It’s that time of year! Come and join us for our Annual Supporters’ Carol Services in Wren Chapel. You will enjoy traditional carols, readings from Chelsea Pensioners and a chance to hear our wonderful choir. Plus join us in the Great Hall after for a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie or gingerbread man, all included with your ticket!
Christmas Events: Saturday 20th December
Sat 20th Dec 2025 9.00am - Sat 20th Dec 2025 6.00pmStep into the festive spirit with us on Saturday 6th December for a day of holiday fun and unique events.
Design a Christmas Card for a Chelsea Pensioner
Sat 20th Dec 2025 10.00am - Sat 20th Dec 2025 12.00pmJoin us for a heart-warming family workshop where children can create and design a festive Christmas card to be delivered to a Chelsea Pensioner. It’s a lovely way for young ones to share seasonal cheer and connect with our cherished residents.
'Twas the Night Before Christmas – Interactive Storytelling
Sat 20th Dec 2025 11.30am - Sat 20th Dec 2025 2.30pmStep into a festive wonderland and join our Chelsea Pensioners for a magical storytelling experience set in our beautifully decorated Christmas-themed room.
Family Gingerbread Decorating Workshop
Sat 20th Dec 2025 1.00pm - Sat 20th Dec 2025 4.00pmAdd a sprinkle of creativity to your Christmas celebrations at our festive family workshop in the Soane Stable Yard! Led by our wonderful arts and crafts facilitator, Veronica, this hands-on session invites children to decorate their own gingerbread men and charming 2D houses - all made from cardboard, so there’s no need to worry about allergies.
Christmas Carols in the Soane Stable Yard
Sat 20th Dec 2025 4.00pm - Sat 20th Dec 2025 4.45pmJoin us a joyful celebration of Christmas in the heart of the Soane Stable Yard. Join the Chelsea Pensioner Singers, supported by Elaine Hillier, as they perform a selection of classic carols and festive favourites, filling the courtyard with warmth, harmony, and holiday cheer.
Breakfast with Santa
Sun 21st Dec 2025 9.00am - Tue 23rd Dec 2025 9.00amStep into the festive spirit with Breakfast with Santa, hosted by Heidi Bakery, within the Soane Stable Yard at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
Chapel Service - Christmas Carol Service
Sun 21st Dec 2025 3.30pm - Sun 21st Dec 2025 4.30pmJoin the Chelsea Pensioners for their traditional 4th Sunday of Advent Carol Service in the enchanting Wren Chapel.
Christmas Eve - First Communion of Christmas
Wed 24th Dec 2025 6.00pm - Wed 24th Dec 2025 7.00pmJoin the Chelsea Pensioners for a magical Christmas Eve Carol Service in the enchanting Wren Chapel. This special evening of carols, reflection, and community spirit is a wonderful way to welcome Christmas in the historic surroundings of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.