Old London Slang: A Cockney Chat
Location:
Royal Hospital Chelsea (Soane Stable Yard Activity Space)
Date & time:
Thursday 1 Oct 2026, 3.30pm - 4.30pm
Price:
Free
Drop in for a lively workshop exploring the colourful origins of old London slang, from cockneys and costermongers to phrases you won’t Adam and Eve.
About the event
Have a butchers and join guide Iona Ball for a playful drop in session exploring the colourful world of old London slang. From cockneys to costermongers, this informal workshop looks at the phrases, humour and everyday language that helped shape London’s distinctive voice. Visitors can chew the fat, test their knowledge and discover the meanings behind familiar and forgotten expressions, including phrases you might not Adam and Eve.
Open to all, this free session is designed to be relaxed, lively and accessible, offering a fun introduction to the language, characters and street culture of old London.
Drop in between 15:30 and 16:30.
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.
Additional information
All welcome.
Free event. Drop in.
About the speaker
Iona Ball, a seasoned tour guide, leads captivating external tours for both the Royal Hospital Chelsea and the Museum of London.
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. This person can accompany a maximum of four children per event. Where permitted, any child over the age of two needs their own seat for events.
The event organiser cannot be responsible for unsupervised children.
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