There are few institutions in the United Kingdom with an unbroken three centuries of service and none of them is so close to the heart of the nation as "The Men in Scarlet", the Chelsea Pensioners, and their home, the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
Founded in 1682 by King Charles II and intended for the 'succour and relief of veterans broken by age and war', the Royal Hospital, with its Grade 1 listed buildings, still serves its original purpose and intends to continue to further its role well into the 21st Century.
On this website you can find details of how to apply to become an In-Pensioner and discover the unique life of a Chelsea Pensioner.
Listen to the memories of old soldiers and take a virtual tour of their home.
Learn about the architecture and history of the Royal Hospital Chelsea and find out how to arrange a visit.

The Royal Hospital has
achieved much over the last
300 years, but it is now time to
look to the future.
To remain fit for purpose, an Appeal
(The Chelsea Pensioners' Appeal)
was set up in 2004 to raise £35 million
to rebuild the existing Infirmary (care home)
and to modernise the Long Wards
(sheltered accommodation).
The success of this Appeal is vital to securing and sustaining this National Institution.
Click here to find out more about the Appeal.
Click here for more information on our development plans and on the progress of our new Infrimary.
RHC Pageant
Click here to view the Appeal Video
View Appeal Video
Latest News
The Caroleans
Friends of the Chelsea Pensioners, The Caroleans, help maintain and promote the goodwill of the Royal Hospital.
Click here for The Caroleans
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