Our Traditions

Founder's Day

Founder's Day is the pinnacle of the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s calendar, where all Chelsea Pensioners gather to honour the founding of the Royal Hospital by King Charles II. This cherished tradition has been celebrated almost every year since the Hospital opened in 1692, reflecting the enduring spirit of our community.

Please note: Attendance at Founder's Day is by invitation only.

Known as Oak Apple Day, Founder's Day is held on a date near 29th May, marking both the birthday of King Charles II and the anniversary of his restoration to the throne in 1660.

The day’s events are rooted in history. After the Battle of Worcester in 1651, the future King Charles II famously hid in an oak tree to escape capture. To honour this, Chelsea Pensioners proudly wear oak leaves on their iconic scarlet uniforms during the ceremony.

In Figure Court, the gold statue of Charles II is also adorned with oak leaves. Over the years, the decoration has varied—from a simple wreath to a full covering that almost conceals the statue. Each year, the statue is dressed anew, symbolising both tradition and renewal.

A member of the Royal Family graces the ceremony annually, underscoring the event’s significance. Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II reviewed the parade four times during her reign. The official visitors’ book is specially prepared with the Royal Coat of Arms, ready for the attending Royal to sign, adding to the day’s historic importance.

The Stirring of the Christmas Pudding

This much loved occasion has taken place for over 80 years. Held in the Great Hall, this festive occasion begins with the Royal Hospital band performing lively Christmas music.

Chelsea Pensioners and staff gather to add ingredients—such as 70 eggs, five kilograms of currants, and 14 pints of Guinness—to a giant mixing bowl. The Chaplain blesses these ingredients before they are mixed, and the pudding is later prepared in the Royal Hospital kitchen.

The final product is enjoyed by the Pensioners on Christmas Day, continuing a delightful tradition that fills the season with joy.

The Ceremony of the Christmas Cheeses

This tradition is a unique and historical event dating back over 300 years. Originating from a local cheesemonger's gift to the ‘Red Breasts of Chelsea,’ this ceremony has been upheld with the support of Dairy UK since 1959.

The event features entertainment, including performances by surprise guests, speeches from the Governor and Dairy UK Chairman, and a blessing from the Chaplain. The highlight is the ceremonial cutting of a large British cheese by a Chelsea Pensioner, followed by a festive celebration with canapés, bubbly, and the singing of “The Quartermaster’s Stores.”

The Ceremony of the Christmas Cake

The Ceremony of the Christmas Cake has been a beloved tradition since 1949, celebrating the enduring friendship between the UK and Australia. Each year, a different Australian state donates a cake, which is cut by a Chelsea Pensioner using a ceremonial sword.

The Chaplain blesses the cake in rhyme, and speeches are made by the Governor and a representative of the Australian state. The event concludes with the singing of both national anthems and “Waltzing Matilda,” amidst admiring the cake’s intricate designs, which have ranged from Australian landmarks to native marsupials.