A musician plays his guitar for a family audience in the Wren Chapel at the Royal Hospital Chelsea

Family Tour of the Royal Hospital Chelsea

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Family Tour of the Royal Hospital Chelsea

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Family Tour of the Royal Hospital Chelsea

Step back in time with musician and storyteller Paul Rubinstein on a magical family story‑walk through the Royal Hospital Chelsea, home of the iconic Chelsea Pensioners.

This interactive 45‑minute tour is designed especially for families with children aged 5–10 and brings 300 years of history to life through music, storytelling, and exploration.

What will you discover?

  • Explore the Royal Hospital Chelsea: Learn how it was founded and how it became home to the Chelsea Pensioners. Visit the Great Hall, the Chapel, and Figure Court.
  • Meet the Chelsea Pensioners: Hear remarkable stories of service and life at the Hospital from the veterans who live here.
  • Uncover the Oakleaf Tradition: Discover why Pensioners wear oak leaves on Founder’s Day and the royal history behind it.

Why families love this tour

  • Educational and fun: Engaging storytelling and interactive moments make history exciting for children and adults alike.
  • Meet a real Chelsea Pensioner: Children can ask questions and hear first‑hand stories from one of the Hospital’s residents.
A man holding an acoustic guitar speaks to a small group of children seated on wooden pews inside an ornate chapel. The chapel features a black-and-white tiled floor, carved wooden panelling, and a large painted dome above the altar. The children listen attentively, suggesting an interactive family tour or musical storytelling session.

Event Details

For families with children aged 5+ 

  • Date: Saturday 4 April
  • Times: 13:00 & 14:30 
  • Tickets: £6 per child and £6 per accompanying adult (A ticket is required for every attendee).

Additional Information:

  • Pushchairs are welcome on site.
  • Tours are limited to 20 people for an intimate and interactive experience.