On a day steeped in history and tradition, the Royal Hospital Chelsea celebrated yet another memorable Founder's Day this morning.

Like communities across the country, the Royal Hospital is preparing to celebrate King Charles III’s coronation. Not only will the Chelsea Pensioners be representing veterans publicly, but they also will be marking this momentous event here in their historic home. 

The Royal Hospital Chelsea hosted its first ever Chanukah celebration on Thursday 22nd December, in conjunction with His Majesty’s Forces Jewish Chaplaincy.

After 2020’s cancellation and last year’s pared back celebration due to the pandemic, the most iconic date in the Royal Hospital’s calendar returned to its full glory this year. 

Anyone who was lucky enough to visit the recent Fabergé exhibition at London’s Victoria & Albert museum may have spotted an exquisite little model of a Chelsea Pensioner, complete with his Scarlet uniform.

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee brings back treasured memories for Chelsea Pensioner Alan Hayter.

Chelsea Pensioner John Gallagher shares his memories of meeting Her Majesty The Queen on not one, but two separate occassions.

As a mark of their great respect and affection for Her Majesty The Queen, the Chelsea Pensioners have delivered a card to the monarch congratulating her on her Platinum Jubilee.

We are delighted to be able to share an exclusive opportunity to join the Chapel Choir of the Royal Hospital Chelsea for the 2020 Christmas Carol service, which this year has been recorded to allow our friends and supporters to enjoy the concert from the safety and comfort of their home.

On a day when the Chelsea Pensioners would traditionally be on parade with over 1,000 service men and women in Salisbury to celebrate Armed Forces Day, this year has seen a very different celebration of this important event.

Pages

Royal Hospital Chelsea Newsletter

Stay up to date with what's going on at The Royal Hospital by signing up for our e‑newsletter.

News

View the archive

Chelsea Pensioner in scarlets and shako looks at the camera
Ferrets, Saladins and Radio Operations – Meet Chelsea Pensioner Roger Hall

Joining the British Army at 15 years old, Chelsea Pensioner, Roger, has had a varied military career. Initially, he joined the Junior Leaders Regimental Royal Armoured Corps and later served with The Life Guards, Royal Logistic Corps as well as the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Roger shares more on his time in the Army.

Two Chelsea Pensioners opening the gate to the Soane Stable Yard
Royal Hospital Chelsea joins the Chelsea Heritage Quarter and Chelsea History Festival this September with special previews of the Soane Stable Yard

We are delighted to announce that the Royal Hospital Chelsea will be part of the Chelsea History Festival once again this year, from Wednesday 25 to Sunday 29 September 2024 and part of the new Chelsea Heritage Quarter – London’s new heritage destination.