Chelsea Waterloo Ball

Mark the 210th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo by dancing the night away in Regency style in Royal Hospital Chelsea’s Great Hall.

For fans of the Napoleonic era or Regency era, or just those inspired by the balls on Bridgerton or described by Austen in her novels, don your finest and join us for a Regency ball in the iconic Great Hall of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

On the evening of 15 June 1815, Charlotte Lennox, the Duchess of Richmond, held a ball in Brussels, where her husband was stationed, for officers of Wellington’s Army and other distinguished guests. At this ball, Wellington received word of Napoleon’s advance, and the next day, the Battle of Quatre Bras took place. This was followed two days later by the Battle of Waterloo on 18 June 1815.

To recognise this historic connection between one of the most famous balls and one of the most famous battles in British history, we will be marking the 210th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo with a ball in Royal Hospital Chelsea’s Great Hall.

Accompanied by Regency style dancers, expert caller and instructor Libby, from Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom, will lead an evening of dancing suitable for all abilities. Live music will be provided by The Capability Consort throughout the night.

It’s not mandatory to wear Regency attire, but this does offer a wonderful opportunity to dress in your finest.

Drinks are available all night from the bar situated inside the Great Hall.

This dance is part of the National Army Museum’s Waterloo Week, marking the 210th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo.

Early-bird offer

Buy your ticket by 1 April 2025 for the discounted offer.

Schedule

6.30pm – Doors open
7.00pm – Dance lesson with Libby Curzon, of Mrs Bennet's Ballroom
8.00pm – First dance session
9.00pm – Interval
10.00pm – Second dance session
11.00pm – Event ends

About our performers

The Capability Consort was formed in 2023 as a Regency dance band. They use period instruments and clothing and aim to produce the rich sound suggested by the scoring of Ignatius Sancho's published dances. Their aim is to combine the poise and direction of chamber and orchestral music with the fun and flexibility of a folk band.

Started in 2013 in Surbiton, Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom hold regular classes for those wishing to learn and enjoy the lively dances of the Regency era. Taught by dancing mistress who will instruct you in the elegant yet somewhat unfamiliar etiquette of the Regency Ballroom.