One of the most popular sights in London, especially around the Chelsea area, are the Chelsea Pensioners in their bright red uniforms and tricorn hats. It's always a pleasure to see them. The Pensioners are all OAP British War Veterans.
They live at The Royal Chelsea Hospital, but wander around The Kings Road like the rest of us.
I worked in Chelsea, and lived for a while in Bramerton Street, just off the Kings Road, where the pensioners were a regular sight. One would always greet them when they passed by, and if they came into a Pub' where one was drinking, it was traditional to buy them their pints; which I did on several occasions.
It was accepted that they would only have one free pint, so they would move-on to another Pub' and have another free one there. Their thirsts were endless, and they took full advantage.
So, if you should meet one in a London Pub'; buy him a pint. He'll appreciate it.
8 comments:
I wonder if I can acquire a Chelsea Pensioner's outfit and a walking stick for the next time I am down in London. The idea of several free pints is most appealing. I will say that I was a sapper though I have no idea what one of them is or was.
You'd have to look old, and groan a lot. I know what Supper is, and I know what a Sipper does, but not too sure about a Sapper. Do they dig outdoor 'Thunderboxes' maybe?
Fine old English traditions.
I've heard of the Chelsea Pensioners but never saw them. A wonderful English tradition
I've just been watching some of them on TV at The Chelsea Flower Show. They were singing Beatles songs!
They are a very pleasant part of life in Chelsea.
The red uniform is pretty snazzy. I've never seen a "Chelsea Pensioner" in a British pub.
Are they all war heroes to qualify for this honor?
They were certainly all serving soldiers; not sure if they were 'heroes'. I'm not sure what the requirements are for them to become Chelsea Pensioners.
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