ToursThe Royal Hospital Chelsea is open to visitors Monday to Friday and every year we have the pleasure of opening our doors to thousands of people interested in learning about the history of the site. You too can discover the history behind this unique national institution by booking a guided walking tour of the Royal Hospital led by a resident Chelsea Pensioner. You will marvel at Sir Christopher Wren’s stunning buildings, hear the captivating stories of our inhabitants - both past and present – and learn about what life is like for today’s veterans at the Royal Hospital.  

As we are first and foremost a residence, we operate slightly differently to other Heritage sites. Tours run to work with the schedule of the Royal Hospital and its  

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Three Chelsea pensioners, two stood behind a bench and one sitting surrounded by red roses in pots
Introducing the Chelsea Pensioner Rose - 'every garden should have one'

A stunning new rose celebrating the Chelsea Pensioners was launched at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024. Exclusively grown by Harkness Roses for the Royal Hospital, the radiant, resilient Chelsea Pensioner Rose is an asset to any garden. And every rose sold helps support the iconic Army veterans it’s named for.  

Chelsea Pensioners stood in a line in scarlet uniform
New research into the Royal Hospital’s Model of Care suggests Chelsea Pensioners are showing the way for living longer and healthier lives

New research, carried out by Northumbria University, sheds light on the Hospital’s Model of Care. It may give clues as to how to better deal with an ageing population in Britain – with the need being ever more pressing.