Family story walk at the Royal Hospital Chelsea
Location:
Royal Hospital Chelsea (Meet at Soane Stable Yard)
Date & time:
Saturday 3 Oct 2026, 1.30pm
Price:
Free
Step back in time with musician and storyteller Paul Rubinstein on this magical family story walk of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, home of the Chelsea Pensioners Discover 300 years of history in this interactive 45-minute tour designed for families with children aged 5-10.
About the event
What will you discover?
- See The Royal Hospital Chelsea: learn about its origins and how it became home to the iconic Chelsea Pensioners.
- The Chelsea Pensioners: meet these living legends and hear about their incredible stories from service and life at the hospital.
- The Oakleaf tradition: find out why the Chelsea Pensioners wear oak leaves on Founder’s Day and the royal connection behind it!
Why families love this tour:
- Educational & fun: this 45-minute walk is designed to engage children and adults alike, making history come to life with captivating storytelling and interactive moments.
- Meet a real Chelsea Pensioner: children will have the unique opportunity to meet one of the Chelsea Pensioners in person and ask them questions about their fascinating lives.
Additional information:
- Pushchairs are welcome on site, so it’s easy for families with younger children to join in the fun.
- Each tour ensures an intimate and interactive experience.
Book your tickets now and embark on a journey through time at the Royal Hospital Chelsea where history is waiting to be discovered!
Festival planning
Getting between Chelsea History Festival venues: This event takes place at Royal Hospital Chelsea. Many Chelsea History Festival venues are within walking distance of one another, but journey times vary. If you are booking events close together, please allow enough time to travel comfortably between venues.
Estimated walking times from this venue: 3 minutes to National Army Museum, 5 minutes to Garrison Chapel, 8 minutes to Chelsea Physic Garden, 9 minutes to Royal Court Theatre, 11 minutes to Cadogan Hall, 16 minutes to Chelsea Old Church and 25 minutes to Chelsea Theatre.
Funded by the City Living Local Life Fund of RBKC, supporting family events at Chelsea History Festival.
Additional information
Enter via Chelsea Gate. Free, booking required.
FAQs
Is the Royal Hospital Chelsea accessible?Yes, the Royal Hospital Chelsea is fully accessible. If you need further access information or help please do get in touch tours@chelsea-pensioners.org.uk or call 0207 881 5200.
Bikes (including folding bikes) and scooters are not permitted. There are bike racks located along Royal Hospital Road. These can be used to secure any bikes and scooters.
Please do not secure any bikes or scooters to the railings outside the Royal Hospital Chelsea or Burton Court. Any items secure to these railings will be removed.
Please adhere to the age range specified for events on the listings page and if appropriate please book a ticket for your child. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult approved by the parent/guardian. The event organiser cannot be responsible for unsupervised children.
Our sponsor
What’s on
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