BRINGING OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER
Welcome to the German YMCA in London
Our vision is of a loving, supportive community in which everyone can develop their full potential in mind, body and spirit.
Inspired by Christian values but inclusive in our reach, for over 160 years we have worked in
Central London to benefit our community and transform people’s lives.
In its central location, close to Lancaster Gate on the north side of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens,
the German YMCA offers a variety of cultural and leisure activities, advice, support and help for the
German-speaking community, their international friends and the local community.
To keep up to date with our news, please sign up to our Newsletter.
Our German language and culture classes for every level are a good way to learn a new language and socialise.
We offer a wide range of music activities and concerts to our members and their friends and families.
In cooperation with our partner organisation, we offer a volunteer programme for young people from Germany and Poland.
Our Programme - July 2026
Wed 01/07
14:00
Peter’s Music Documentary - Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony
Maestro George Marriner Maull leads the Discovery Orchestra in this interactive concert, recorded before a live audience, exploring the dramatic Finale of French composer Camille Saint-Saëns’ epic Symphony No. 3, the “Organ” Symphony.
Thu 02/07
Schubert Society Summer Concert 2026
Violinist Madeleine Mitchell and pianist Lorna Griffitt will perform a programme of Beethoven, Schubert, and Brahms.
St. James’s Church, Sussex Gardens, London W2 3UD
Followed by coffee, tea, and cake at the German YMCA.
Admission free - Donations welcome!
14:00
Peter’s Music - Film Afternoon: Happy Go Lovely
A chorus girl gets a ride from millionaire Bruno's driver. The cash-strapped theatre director thinks she's Bruno's girlfriend and makes her the lead. She meets Bruno, thinking he's a reporter, and more confusion follows. Starring Vera-Ellen and David Niven.
Wed 08/07
14:00
Thu 09/07
14:00
Mon 13/07
19:00
Wed 15/07
10:00
Wed 15/07
14:00
German YMCA Miniclub - Picnic in the Park
Come and join us for our annual Summer Picnic! We will bring blankets, toys, and plenty of snacks - just bring yourselves and your little ones for a lovely morning of outdoor fun.
Thu 16/07
14:00
German YMCA Talk Series - God is an Englishman
Join us for a live talk by historian Bijan Omrani on his recent book exploring how Christianity has shaped England’s identity, culture, laws, and institutions, as well as the religion's influence on literature, language, and social charity.
Wed 22/07
14:00
Digital Skills Training - Module 1
Join us for a friendly digital skills training session run by AbilityNet. Bring your own tablet or phone and feel free to ask questions. The first module covers basics like using your device, managing email, and navigating online services.
Peter’s Music Live - Life of an Opera Diva
Have you ever wondered what it's really like to be a professional opera singer? A humorous journey into the glamorous - and sometimes not so glamorous - life backstage and on the road. A talk filled with music and hilarious anecdotes by Laure Meloy.
Peter’s Music Talk - Musicians who Lived as Spies
Ever wonder what's really hidden in the sheet music? Join us for an hour that rips the lid off one of history's best-kept secrets - the performers who traded the spotlight for the shadows. Meet the superstars that led a double-life.
Thu 23/07
14:00
Digital Skills Training - Module 2
The second module of our digital skills training covers online services, banking, shopping and managing documents.
Wed 29/07
14:00
Peter’s Music - Farewell to our Volunteers
We warmly invite you to join us for a special farewell party as we say goodbye to our four wonderful volunteers from Germany. This will be an afternoon of celebration and good wishes as we reflect on their time with us. There will be fizz and a fingerfood buffet.
Dates for your Diary
German YMCA Summer Break
Monday 3 August - Monday 31 August
No programmes running during the summer break. The office is closed.
Out & About Hampton Court Palace
Thursday, 3 September 2026, 14:00
Outing to Hampton Court Palace
East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU
German YMCA Garden Party
Friday, 11 September 2026, 13:00
Garden Party with Buffet
St. Mary's German Church, WC1H 9PL
German YMCA Concert Series
Thursday, 17 September 2026, 19:00
Iuno Connolly and Friends
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
Peter's Music Live Concert
Wednesday 23 September 2026, 14:00
Auline-Jean Melbourne
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
Art Adventures - Indian Folk Art
Thursday, 24 September 2026, 14:00
Indian Rangoli Patterns
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Brothers Room
German YMCA Oktoberfest 2026
Thursday, 1 October, 12:30
German Oktoberfest Celebration
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
Peter's Music Talk
Wednesday, 7 October 2026, 14:00
Rosemary Broadbent - Serenade to Music
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Brothers Room
German YMCA Concert Series
Thursday, 22 October, 19:00
Norbert Meyn - Émigré Cabaret
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
Our Partner Charities & Causes
