Tour

Royal Hospital Chelsea State Apartments Art Tour

Photograph of a room inside the State Apartments at the Royal Hospital Chelsea

Book tickets

Location:
Royal Hospital Chelsea (State Apartments)

Date & time:
Wednesday 24 Sep 2025, 1.00pm - 2.00pm

Price:
£20.00

Enjoy a special tour of the State Apartments, featuring historic royal portraits, exquisite art, and stunning designs by Sir Christopher Wren and Robert Adam.

About the event

Join a Chelsea Pensioner Guide for an exclusive tour of the magnificent State Apartments at the heart of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. These historic rooms have hosted kings and queens for centuries, and feature portraits of the Royal Hospital’s major benefactors, including Charles I, Charles II and William III.

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and embellished by Robert Adam, the State Apartments offer a truly exquisite experience. Guests are surrounded by paintings from the schools of Van Dyck, Kneller and Lely, alongside important carvings and mouldings by William Emmett, John Grove and William Cleere.

About the Royal Hospital Chelsea

Though Chelsea has long since been engulfed by the sprawl of London, the Royal Hospital remains one of the most iconic sites within the capital. As the permanent home to the Chelsea Pensioners, it is numbered amongst the nation’s most loved and valued working historic buildings.

The Royal Hospital’s relevance to modern society remains undiminished, continuing a centuries-old tradition of veteran care.

Additional information

Meet at the Soane Stable Yard next to Chelsea Gate.

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.

Are bikes or scooters allowed?

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.

Can I bring children?

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.