A group of female Chelsea Pensioners are sat laughing together on the colonnade at the Royal Hospital Chelsea

International Women's Day

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International Women's Day 2026

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International Women’s Day at the Soane Stable Yard

Celebrate International Women’s Day with us at the Soane Stable Yard on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 March. Across the weekend, we’ll be hosting a series of special events that shine a light on the remarkable contributions of women in the British Armed Forces.

Visitors can explore a powerful exhibition featuring portraits of female Chelsea Pensioners, offering a rare glimpse into their stories and service. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy a brand‑new talk and guided tour led by Barbara, the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s first-ever female Chelsea Pensioner Tour Guide, as she shares her experiences and perspectives on women’s evolving roles in the military.

Families are warmly welcomed too, with hands‑on children’s activities designed to help younger visitors learn about the women who have served throughout history.

Women of the Royal Hospital Chelsea assemble in Figure Court

Saturday 7th March

Visitors can explore a powerful exhibition featuring portraits of female Chelsea Pensioners, offering a rare glimpse into their stories and service. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy a brand‑new talk and guided tour led by Barbara, the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s first-ever female Chelsea Pensioner Tour Guide, as she shares her experiences and perspectives on women’s evolving roles in the military.

Families are warmly welcomed too, with hands‑on children’s activities designed to help younger visitors learn about the women who have served throughout history.

See the day's events
A selection of pastries from Heidi Bakery Cáfe at the Royal Hospital Chelsea

Enjoy Food & Drinks from Heidi Bakery

Stop by the family-run independent café to enjoy delicious made-from-scratch pastries, cakes, savouries and salads. It's the perfect spot - inside or on the courtyard - to enjoy Heidi's range of specialty coffees, artisan teas, wine, beer and more.

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Events on Saturday 7th March

Join us for a range of exciting events developed to celebrate International Women's Day.

A group of Chelsea Pensioners sit side by side on a wooden bench indoors, wearing their scarlet uniforms and RH hats. They are smiling and laughing together, with medals visible on their coats. Several hold walking sticks, and the scene conveys companionship, pride, and shared humour.

IWD: Photography Display

To celebrate International Women’s Day 2026, the Royal Hospital Chelsea is delighted to partner with photographer Jackie King to display a collection of never-before-seen photographs showing some of the 19 female Chelsea Pensioners who currently call the Royal Hospital their home.