Wren Chapel & Services
About the Wren Chapel
The Wren Chapel, built between 1681 and 1687, is a rare and pristine example of Sir Christopher Wren's ecclesiastical architecture. Designed to accommodate about 500 people, it served all the staff and Chelsea Pensioners of the Royal Hospital.
The Chapel's interior features original wainscoting and pews crafted by Sir Charles Hopson, with additional carvings by William Emmett. The apse displays a painting of the Resurrection by Sebastiano Ricci, dating back to 1714, likely a gift from Queen Anne.
Consecrated in 1691, the Chapel once held compulsory services twice daily. Today, services are typically held on Sunday mornings, preceded by a parade of the Chelsea Pensioners in Figure Court.
Regular Wren Chapel Services
All are welcome to our chapel services that are held in the Wren Chapel every Sunday.
Sundays
- 09:00 - Holy Communion
- 11:00 - Choral Matins (or, on occasion, Choral Eucharist: see Music Lists for full details)
For more information call 020 7881 5214 or email chapeladministrator@chelsea-pensioners.org.uk
Organ Scholarship 2025-26
A unique opportunity to work as assistant to the Royal Hospital’s Director of Music, with accommodation at our heritage site.
Special Services
Christmas 2024
Services for the Christmas season:
Sunday 22 December, 15.30
Royal Hospital Chelsea Carol Service
(doors open at 14.45)
Wednesday 24 December, 18.00
Christmas Eve: First Communion of Christmas
(doors open at 17.15)
Thursday 25 December, 11.00
Christmas Day: Choral Matins
(doors open at 10.30)
These services are non-ticketed; entry is first come, first served.
The doors will be closed once capacity is reached.
By tradition, there will be no services on Sunday 29 December. Sunday services resume on 5 January 2025.