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.
Christmas Events: Saturday 6th December
Sat 6th Dec 2025 9.00am - Sat 6th 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 6th Dec 2025 10.00am - Sat 6th Dec 2025 1.30pmJoin 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 6th Dec 2025 11.30am - Sat 6th 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.
Wartime Christmas at the Royal Hospital Chelsea
Sat 6th Dec 2025 3.00pm - Sat 6th Dec 2025 4.00pmDrawing from his acclaimed book The Royal Hospital Chelsea at War, Martin Cawthorne will reflect on how the festive season unfolded during one of the darkest chapters in the Hospital’s history. Discover how Christmas became a symbol of hope, compassion, and duty on the Home Front, even as the Hospital itself stood in the line of fire.
Breakfast with Santa
Sun 7th 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.
Community Event: Dementia-Inclusive Singing Sessions
Tue 9th Dec 2025 10.00am - Tue 8th Sep 2026 11.30amOur 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!
Christmas Carol Services
Wed 10th 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 13th December
Sat 13th Dec 2025 9.00am - Sat 13th 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 13th Dec 2025 10.00am - Sat 13th 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 13th Dec 2025 11.30am - Sat 13th 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 Christmas Decorations Workshop
Sat 13th Dec 2025 1.00pm - Sat 13th Dec 2025 4.00pmGet crafty this Christmas at our festive family workshop in the Soane Stable Yard! Led by our talented arts and crafts facilitator, Veronica, this hands-on session invites children and families to create their very own Christmas decorations to take home or gift to someone special.