The Royal Hospital Chelsea, the home of the Chelsea Pensioners

The Chelsea Pensioners

The Chelsea Pensioners are the iconic faces of the UK’s veteran community. They reside at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, their 326-year-old home founded by King Charles II in the heart of London.

Any former soldier of the British Army over the age of 65, who is facing spending their advanced years alone, can apply for residence at the Royal Hospital as a Chelsea Pensioner. For admissions criteria please click here.

Pamela - Chelsea Pensioner

What is a Chelsea Pensioner?

Meet the Chelsea Pensioners
Become a Chelsea Pensioner

Become a Chelsea Pensioner

Royal Hospital Chelsea Newsletter

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News

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Chelsea Pensioner, Tony, holds a large canvas he has painted of two Navy battleships at sea
The Healing Power of Art: Chelsea Pensioner, Tony, shares how art has helped him in later life and how the Royal Hospital is expanding art in the community

Since joining the Royal Hospital Chelsea in 2021, Tony has discovered a new passion – art. He shared more on how this creative outlet has benefitted his wellbeing. 

Guest veterans join the Chelsea Pensioners for a summer picnic in Ranelagh Gardens

Yesterday, we welcomed over 100 guests from the Armed Forces community to the Royal Hospital Chelsea for our Chelsea Pensioners Veterans’ Outreach picnic.