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 - November 2026
Wed 04/11
15:00
Schubert Song Prize 2026 - Masterclass & Prize Giving
Young voice and piano duos compete for the Schubert Song Prize, with a masterclass and prize giving led by baritone Roderick Williams OBE. Each duo performs two songs, and afternoon tea is served during the break. Donations welcome!
Thu 05/11
German YMCA Out & About - Kensington Palace
Join us this November for a self-guided visit to Kensington Palace, exploring the King's State Apartments with their painted ceilings, plus fine furniture, royal fashion, and the surrounding gardens. Afterwards, we'll gather for refreshments and a chat about the day.
Tickets are £5 at info@german-ymca.org.uk
14:00
Peter’s Music Documentary - Being Beethoven III
The third part of this compelling series finds Beethoven adrift and desperate for control. After his brother's death in 1815, his longing for family turns into obsession. Unknown to him, this period leads into his late masterpieces like the Ninth 'Choral' Symphony.
Wed 11/11
14:00
Wed 11/11
19:00
Fri 13/11
17:00
Wed 18/11
14:00
St. Martin Lantern Walk 2026
Join us for a St Martin Lantern Walk together with the German Protestant Congregations London-West. Bring your lanterns and enjoy a short evening walk with traditional songs. Afterwards, warm up with mulled wine, brioche men, pretzels, and sausages to buy. Register at info@german-ymca.org.uk
Thu 19/11
19:00
Peter’s Music Talk - 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 more.
Wed 25/11
14:00
Thu 26/11
14:00
Peter’s Music - Film Afternoon: Puttin’ On the Ritz
Watch this 1930 American musical film starring Harry Richman and Joan Bennett, the first of many films to feature the popular song ‘Puttin’ On the Ritz’, written and published by Irving Berlin in 1929.
German YMCA Concert - Classical Swing
Pianist Beatrice Nicholas presents a night where classical meets swing, blending classical elegance with jazz improvisation and swing rhythms, inspired by the extraordinary artistry of Hazel Scott, Lil Hardin Armstrong, and Nina Simone.
Tickets are £5 (incl. drink) at info@german-ymca.org.uk
Art Adventures - Indian Folk Art: Block Printing
Explore one of India's most beloved folk art traditions. Rooted in centuries of craft, block printing uses hand-carved wooden blocks to stamp rich patterns and motifs onto fabric and paper. No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided.
Admission free - Donations welcome.
Dates for your Diary
Peter's Music Talk
Wednesday, 2 December 2026, 14:00
Howard Slater: Rat Pack Christmas
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Brothers Room
German YMCA Christmas Fair 2026
Saturday, 5 December 2026, 13:00
Christmas Fair with Food & Market Stalls
Lancaster Hall Hotel / All Rooms
German YMCA Christmas Lunch 2026
--------------- Sold out ---------------
Christmas Lunch and Entertainment ------------- Waitlist Only -------------
GWC Christmas Tea 2026
Wednesday, 16 December 2026, 14:00
German Christmas Celebration
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
German YMCA Out & About
Thursday, 7 January 2027, 14:00
Es Devlin: Other Worlds
The Design Museum / Kensington
Peter's Music Live
Wednesday, 13 January 2027, 14:00
Live Music Now: Edward Leung
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
Our Partner Charities & Causes
