The Chelsea History Festival – now in its seventh year – has revealed its full line-up for 2025, promising a five-day celebration of stories, people, and ideas that have shaped Britain and the wider world.
Taking place from 24th-28th September, the much-loved event is set to bring Chelsea’s rich cultural heritage to life through more than 80 events at iconic historical venues across the area.
The festival has grown since its conception into a cornerstone of Chelsea’s cultural calendar and remains the flagship event of the Chelsea Heritage Quarter. Supported by RBKC and headline sponsor Cadogan, this year’s programme includes a compelling mix of talks, walking tours, live performances, exhibitions, family events, and hands-on workshops hosted at the Physic Garden, the National Army Museum, and the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
This year’s line-up features an array of prominent speakers and historians, including pre-eminent broadcasters Mishal Husain and Emily Maitlis, who will join author Mark Gwynne to explore memoirs from the Second World War, reflecting on personal narratives of conflict, courage, and memory. Bestselling author and journalist Simon Jenkins will explain the hidden narratives behind the architecture that had shaped Britain in his lecture entitled ‘A History of British Architecture: Who is the blame?‘.
A favourite among families, author and historian Greg Jenner brings history alive in an entertaining and accessible way, diving into his popular ‘Totally Chaotic History’ book series. His event promises to be an engaging, laughter-filled journey for young audiences and curious adults alike.
In a spirited exploration of liquid history, award-winning drinks writer Henry Jeffreys will examine how alcohol has influenced — and often mirrored — the course of human events. From ancient brews to modern cocktails, his talk will chart the unexpected role that drinks have played in shaping societies.
Meanwhile, Chelsea Physic Garden will play host to a pair of herbalists — Natasha Richardson and Maya Jayaweera Thomas — who will lead audiences through the fascinating evolution of herbal medicine, drawing on centuries-old remedies and contemporary applications alike.
Nature takes a centre stage in a talk by presenter and writer Alys Fowler, who delves into the ecological and emotional significance of bogs. These strange and magical landscapes, she argues, offer more than meets the eye, acting as natural time capsules of human and environmental history.
William Morris, the ground-breaking 19th-century designer and social thinker, is the focus of a talk by curator Helen Mary Elletson. Audiences will discover how Morris’s radical ideas and exquisite botanical designs continue to influence contemporary aesthetics and thought.
Author and historian Alice Loxton will explore pivotal moments in British history through the lens of eighteen remarkable individuals — all profiled at the age of eighteen. Her unique narrative approach offers a fresh perspective on how youth can shape destiny.
An international angle comes with a special panel on the legacy of Polish-British relations following the Second World War. Sponsored by the Polish Cultural Institute, the event will reflect on wartime alliances, migration, and enduring cultural ties between the two nations.
The festival also introduces two brand new exhibitions with exclusive guided tours. At the Royal Hospital Chelsea, Lost and Found in Hong Kong: The Unsung Chinese Heroes of D-Day sheds light on overlooked contributions to a pivotal moment in world history. Meanwhile, the National Army Museum’s Beyond Burma: Forgotten Armies explores the untold stories of soldiers and campaigns too often left out of mainstream narratives.
Both exhibitions will feature special curator-led tours, offering deeper insights into these powerful stories through expert interpretation and rarely seen artefacts. These tours are expected to be a major draw for history lovers and casual visitors alike.
With something for every age and interest — from local tales to global turning points — the Chelsea History Festival 2025 promises a dynamic and inclusive experience. Whether you’re drawn by military history, natural science, personal memoirs or creative heritage, the programme is designed to illuminate and inspire.
Tickets for the full programme are now available online. Organisers encourage early booking, as many events are expected to sell out quickly.
For more information and to view the full schedule, visit chelseahistoryfestival.com
