With a history that goes back more than 300 years, it’s not surprising that there have been various reports of ghostly goings-on at the Royal Hospital. To mark Halloween, we’re sharing some of them with you.

On this day in 1801 a Chelsea Pensioner was condemned to death by hanging for murdering a fellow Chelsea Pensioner. But that was just the start of a truly macabre tale.

Tickets are now on sale for a fascinating festival of history on the Royal Hospital Road in one of London’s most ancient districts.

When Chelsea Pensioner Ernie Boyden noticed a small street called Bunhouse Place, behind the Pimlico Road, he decided to investigate.

Last weekend’s multimedia exhibition: From the World War I Battlefields and Into the Peace saw visitors from all over Britain, including the Isle of Wight.

When the Royal Hospital opened its doors to women in 2009, Marjorie Cole jumped at the chance. Ten years on, she looks back at what brought her to the Royal Hospital and talks about what makes life as a Chelsea Pensioner so special.

Former Chelsea Pensioner Joshua Tongue was awarded two medals at Talavera and Waterloo. These were displayed in the Royal Hospital’s museum but In 1978, during a burglary, Private Tongue’s medals vanished. Nothing was heard of the medals, until the Royal Hospital received an email from a London auction house last December.

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Chelsea Pensioner Billy in scarlet uniform
Meet Chelsea Pensioner Billy Knowles

Chelsea Pensioner, Billy, joined the Army at 15 years old as an Infantry soldier. During his 25 years in the Army, he eventually became a drummer, working up to a drum major and leaving the military as a Warrant Officer. 

Billy has been at the Royal Hospital Chelsea for three years. His love for music continues; he is part of the singing group and teaches ukulele to his fellow Pensioners. Billy shares more on his time in the Army and how he is spending his time at the Royal Hospital Chelsea… 

Meet Chelsea Pensioner Mick Gue: Sporting Success

Chelsea Pensioner, Mick Gue, talks about his athletic triumphs in the Army, and what he is doing now to stay fit in retirement.