National treasures is probably an overused title but the Chelsea pensioners certainly deserve it. I visited the Royal Hospital Chelsea to explore the small museum on the site which tells the history of the pensioners and the buildings they are housed in. The staff on the gate will direct you towards the museum which contains a significant collection of war medals bequeathed by former residents, plus uniforms and a vast array of memorabilia. Boards around the edges of the museum provide information about the institution and its residents.
I was also free to wander around the extensive grounds and admire the buildings designed by Christopher Wren and has been the home for war veterans since the reign of Charles II. Subject to events and other timing restrictions, visitors are allowed to have a look at the Great Hall Refectory, the Octagon Porch, chapel and courtyards. I was lucky with my timing on a beautiful sunny day and got to see them all.
There is also a café on site open to the public. Entry is Free.
