Explore Chelsea

Local history events

Bringing the past to life through performances, talks and tours

Plaque marking the site of King Henry VIII's Manor House in Chelsea

Chelsea: Royal Borough and ‘Village of Palaces’

Explore the historic streets of Chelsea and discover the borough’s long and fascinating connection with royalty.

Chelsea Pensioner

Tour of the Royal Hospital Chelsea

Experience the Royal Hospital through the eyes of one of its iconic residents.

Granny Takes a Trip

Rock ‘n’ Roll Chelsea

Discover Chelsea’s loud and proud rock ‘n’ roll heritage on a guided walk of its historic streets.

Tite Street

Tite Street

Walk back in time along Tite Street and discover the colourful past of this former artists’ quarter.

Chelsea on film

Local stories of natural, social and military history

Dr Claudia Tobin

Chelsea’s Little Theatres: 1914-18 and Beyond

Dr Claudia Tobin tells us about a little-known but important aspect of Chelsea’s artistic legacy.

Chelsea Pensioner James Little

Tour of the State Apartments, Royal Hospital Chelsea

Join Chelsea Pensioner James Little on a tour of these magnificent rooms at the heart of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Flowers at the Chelsea Physic Garden

Tour of the Chelsea Physic Garden

Anne Edwards takes us on an exclusive tour around one of the world’s most historic and beautiful botanical gardens.

Trees in Chelsea

Trees of Chelsea

London tree expert Paul Wood shows us some of the most unique and interesting trees in Chelsea.

Dr Emily Mayhew

Chelsea in the Blitz

Dr Emily Mayhew explores the devastating impact of the Blitz on Chelsea’s people and places.

Geoffrey Matthews, Secretary of the Chelsea Arts Club

Chelsea Arts Club Balls

Geoffrey Matthews, Secretary of the Chelsea Arts Club, reveals the history of the infamous Chelsea Arts Club Balls.

Chelsea history podcast

A century of crisis, resilience and cultural flourishing

Chelsea walking routes

Themed walks for you to discover Chelsea’s secrets at your leisure

Approx time: 50 mins
Format: Downloadable PDF

Approx time: 45 mins
Format: Downloadable PDF

Approx time: 60 mins
Format: Downloadable PDF