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 - September 2026
Wed 02/09
14:00
Peter’s Music Talk - Playing for Henry on Tour
Historian and musician Anthony Musson will present his project Playing for Henry on Tour, a series of experimental performances recreating a forgotten drama from the Tudor court. A talk full of music and fascinating historical facts.
Thu 03/09
German YMCA Out & About - Hampton Court Palace
Step back in time with our outing to Hampton Court Palace, once home to Henry VIII himself. Wander through magnificent Tudor halls, and enjoy the riverside gardens. Tickets only £5.
Book now: info@german-ymca.org.uk or 020 4618 3103.
14:00
Peter’s Music Live - Good Old Days: 40s and 50s Music
Turn back the clock with lecturer Howard Slater for a nostalgic hour through the music and memories of the 40s and 50s. Brought to life with slides, films, videos, and original recordings, featuring the unforgettable sounds of Elvis, Doris Day, Glenn Miller, and many more.
Wed 09/09
14:00
Fri 11/09
13:00
Wed 16/09
14:00
Thu 17/09
19:00
Peter’s Music Documentary - Being Beethoven I
Watch the first episode of this interesting series telling the life story of the composer in the context of his own time and place, revealing a life marked by musical triumphs as well as isolation and deafness.
Wed 23/09
14:00
German YMCA Concert - Iúnó Connolly & Dylan Perez
Join us for an unforgettable evening as soprano Iúnó Connolly takes the stage bringing us a programme of melting French mélodie, soaring Romantic passion, and the sly charm of Coward and Porter. Tickets £5 include a welcome drink.
Thu 24/09
14:00
German YMCA Garden Party 2026
Join us for a wonderful afternoon in the beautiful courtyard of St. Mary's Church, with food, drinks, live music, and great company. Enjoy a buffet-style lunch featuring a delicious selection of meats and vegetarian options, fresh salads, a cheese buffet, plus puddings and cakes to finish. Tickets are £15 at info@german-ymca.org.uk or 020 4618 3103
Mon 28/09
19:00
Art Adventures - Rangoli: Patterns of Celebration
Explore the history and cultural significance of Indian Rangoli and learn how these beautiful designs are used to celebrate festivals and bring good fortune to the home. Create your own colourful artwork to take home. All materials are provided.
Peter’s Music Live - Auline-Jean Melbourne
Journey through 300 years of song, from 16th-century opera to today's love songs. Discover how lieder and Italian arias laid the foundations for modern musical theatre, and how, despite changing styles, music's power to express love, betrayal, sadness, and power remains timeless.
Skat Evening - Let’s Play the German Card Game
Play Skat with us for a £5 donation to the GWC.
Wed 30/09
14:00
Peter’s Music - Film Afternoon: Love Me or Leave Me
Watch the story of jazz-age singing sensation Ruth Etting, and the ruthless Chicago gangster who controlled her life. Brilliant performances from Doris Day and James Cagney bring this true story to the screen with equal parts heartbreak and star power.
Dates for your Diary
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
Peter's Music Live
Wednesday, 28 October, 14:00
Masako Kamikawa on the Piano
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
Schubert Song Prize 2026
Wednesday, 4 November, 14:00
Masterclass with Roderick Williams
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
German YMCA Concert Series
Thursday, 19 November, 19:00
Beatrice Nicholas - Classical Swing
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
Our Partner Charities & Causes
