Coronavirus update

You may have noticed we’ve reduced or cancelled many public-facing events, services and functions. We are directing all our resources to provide vital care and support for our Pensioners which may impact several key services to the public during this period. We’d like to apologise for any inconvenience caused and we thank you for your continued support.

For all updates please visit: chelsea-pensioners.co.uk/coronavirus

The Royal Hospital Chelsea, the home of the Chelsea Pensioners

The Chapel reopened to the public on Sunday 1st August 2021.

Upon arrival, please expect to be directed to approach the Chapel via the gravel on the North Front and not to access any other part of the site. The Colonnade, Ranelagh Gardens and the Coffee Shop remain closed and for the time being we ask you not to attend Governor’s Parade ahead of the Service.

We encourage you to sanitise your hands and, if you wish, you may wear masks. Please maintain a sensible distance from others in the Chapel.

Wren Chapel services:

SUNDAYS

  • 09:00 Holy Communion 
  • 11:00 Choral Matins

For more information call 020 7881 5214 or email chapeladministrator@chelsea-pensioners.org.uk. 

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Chelsea Pensioner Centenarians
100 years old and still going strong

Recent research backs up the anecdote that Chelsea Pensioners not only live considerably longer than their peers outside (by over five years, on average), but that their lifetimes once they come to the Royal Hospital are extending, year on year. This strongly suggests that the care and community here contribute to greater longevity – as well as improving quality of life. 

Dick Turpin
Highwaymen, Jacobites and the Chelsea Patrol

From delivering post, to guiding visitors around our historic site, the Chelsea Pensioners can choose to take on a number of different jobs while living at the Royal Hospital. One of the more unusual roles previously adopted by Pensioners was as a member of the Chelsea Patrol; a London garrison stationed between the Royal Hospital and St James’ Palace to deter against criminal activity and protect the city against the growing threat posed by the Jacobite movement.

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