A wide view of the Main Court at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, showing an expansive green lawn surrounded by red brick buildings with white stone detailing. The central building features large columns, a pediment with a clock, and a bell tower above. A golden statue stands on a plinth to the right of centre. The scene is bright and clear, highlighting the symmetry and historic architecture of the courtyard.

What's on at the Royal Hospital Chelsea

You are here:

What's on

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

Tours

Guided Tours of the Royal Hospital Chelsea

Tue 6th Jan 2026 10.00am - Wed 23rd Dec 2026 4.00pm
Location: Royal Hospital Chelsea

Discover the history, beauty, and stories of the Royal Hospital Chelsea by joining one of our guided tours, led by a Chelsea Pensioner. You’ll explore some of the most stunning historic buildings in London and gain an insider’s perspective on what life is like as part of this unique community.

Community Event: Dementia-Inclusive Sensory Walk

Tue 24th Feb 2026 10.30am - Tue 22nd Sep 2026 12.00pm
Location: Soane Stable Yard Activity Room, Royal Hospital Chelsea

xperience the 330-year-old buildings of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in a totally new way. Each month we will take a relaxed, sensory stroll through different areas of the Royal Hospital grounds. Smell the aromas of the delicious food served in the Great Hall, hear beautiful organ music in the Wren Chapel, or take in the stunning Christopher Wren architecture. 

Family Event, Free Event, Public Event, Tours

International Women's Day 2026

Sat 7th Mar 2026 10.00am - Sat 7th Mar 2026 4.30pm
Location: Soane Stable Yard, Royal Hospital Chelsea

Join us for a range of exciting events developed to celebrate International Women's Day on Saturday 7th March 2026. From Talks to tours, photography displays to hand's on workshops - join us for a day packed with fun activities.

Free Event, Public Event

IWD: Photography Display

Sat 7th Mar 2026 10.00am - Sun 8th Mar 2026 4.30pm
Location: The Soane Stable Yard (Entrance via Chelsea Gate)

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.

Lectures, Public Event, Tours

IWD: Talk and Tour with Chelsea Pensioner Barbara

Sat 7th Mar 2026 2.00pm - Sat 7th Mar 2026 3.30pm
Location: The Soane Stable Yard (Entrance via Chelsea Gate)

Join us for a special event exploring the evolving role of women in the British Army, both before and after the landmark changes of 1992. This insightful talk will be led by Barbara, the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s first female Chelsea Pensioner Tour Guide, who will share her own experiences alongside stories from other female Chelsea Pensioners.

Community Event: Dementia-Inclusive Singing Sessions

Tue 10th Mar 2026 10.00am - Tue 8th Sep 2026 11.30am
Location: Soane Stable Yard Activity Room, Royal Hospital Chelsea

Our monthly dementia-inclusive singing group provides an opportunity for local older people and those affected by dementia to come together, have fun and improve their wellbeing. Enjoy a good, hearty singing session and exercise your mind and soul. And don’t worry if you think you can’t sing - it's all about enjoying yourself! 

Veterans Outreach

Veterans Outreach: Art with Lorna

Thu 12th Mar 2026 2.00pm - Thu 12th Mar 2026 4.00pm
Location: Soane Stable Yard Activity Space, Royal Hospital Chelsea

Get creative in 2026 at our exclusive Veterans Outreach Art with Lorna session.

Meet other veterans from the Tri-Services and Merchant Navy in a relaxed and supportive environment, while enjoy a spot of relaxation and artistic creativity.

Community Event: Coffee Morning

Tue 17th Mar 2026 10.00am - Tue 15th Sep 2026 12.00pm
Location: Soane Stable Yard Activity Room, Royal Hospital Chelsea

Get to know your neighbours and the Chelsea Pensioners over a cuppa at our monthly free coffee morning. Play games, discuss current affairs or our unique art and history collection, reminisce or simply meet new people, all in the historic setting of the Royal Hospital's Soane Stable Yard.