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 - May 2026
Wed 06/05
14:00
Peter’s Music - Royal Opera House: Sleeping Beauty I
The Sleeping Beauty holds a very special place in The Royal Ballet’s repertory, being their first performance after World War II. This enchanting 2023 production stars Yasmine Naghdi and Matthew Ball. Please note that the ballet will be shown in two instalments - Part I this week, Part II next week.
Thu 07/05
German YMCA May Lunch 2026
Join us for our annual May Lunch with a refreshing glass of traditional German ‘Maibowle’, followed by a light, seasonal lunch in our restaurant. Afterwards, enjoy coffee, tea, and cake in the hall with musical entertainment by Harry Kersley.
Tickets: £15 from info@german-ymca.org.uk or 020 4618 3103
12:30
Peter’s Music - Royal Opera House: Sleeping Beauty II
We will show the second instalment of this beautiful ballet presented by The Royal Ballet in Covent Garden.
Wed 13/05
14:00
Peter’s Music Live - Elvina Duo
The King’s harpist Mared Pugh-Evans and flautist Katie Sazanova bring us a classical concert with a modern twist. They are versatile artists, at home with classical music, improvising and storytelling.
Followed by tea, coffee, and cake.
No booking required - Donations welcome.
Thu 14/05
14:00
Wed 20/05
14:00
Thu 21/05
14:00
German YMCA Talk Series - Clive Sanders: Military Poet
Join military veteran and poet Clive Sanders for a talk and poetry reading reflecting on his experiences in the British Army and the impact of war. Clive is the poet-in-residence of our partner charity Never Such Innocence. The reading is followed by tea, coffee, and cake.
No booking - Donations welcome.
Schubertiade Concert - Simon Weale on the Piano
Classical pianist Simon Weale will perform beautiful piano pieces by Schubert, Liszt, Schumann, Wagner and Franck.
St. James’s Church, Sussex Gardens, London W2 3UD
Followed by coffee, tea, and cake at the German YMCA.
Admission free - Donations welcome!
Wed 27/05
14:00
Peter’s Music - Documentary: The Organ Symphony
Watch this captivating film about the history and restoration of the historic organ in the Moscow State Conservatory, an emotional and artistic portrayal of the organ, presenting it as a living entity with its own voice and history.
Wed 27/05
19:00
Skat Evening - Let’s Play the German Card Game
Play Skat with us for a £5 donation to the GWC.
Thu 28/05
14:00
Art Adventures - Tejido: Mexican Textile Weaving
Discover the history of Mexican textile weaving. Learn about traditional patterns and their meanings, examine textile samples, and create your own piece to take home. No experience needed - materials provided.
Followed by tea, coffee, and cake. Donations welcome.
Dates for your Diary
Quiz & Curry Night
Thursday, 4th June 2026, 18h00
Community Quiz & Curry Buffet
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
German YMCA Out & About
Thursday, 11th June 2026, 14h00
ZSL London Zoo
London Zoo / Regent's Park
Art Adventures
Thursday, 18th June 2026, 14h00
Arts, Crafts & Culture - Frida Kahlo
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Brothers Room
Charity Concert 2026
Thursday, 18th June 2026, 19h00
Community Choir Fundraiser
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Lancaster Hall
Schubertiade Concert
Thursday, 25th June 2026, 14h00
Nicola Meecham & Penny Driver
St. James's Church, Sussex Gardens
Summer Concert
Thursday, 2nd July 2026, 14h00
Madeleine Mitchell & Lorna Griffitt
St. James's Church, Sussex Gardens
German YMCA Talk Series
Thursday, 9th July 2026, 14h00
Bijan Omrani / God is an Englishman
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Brothers Room
Digital Skills Workshop I & II
Thursday, 16th & 23rd July 2026, 14h00
Digital Skills for Everyday Life
Lancaster Hall Hotel / Brothers Room
Our Partner Charities & Causes
