Retirement marks a significant milestone—a time to bid farewell to the daily grind and an invitation to spend your time exactly how you wish. For many retirees, this newfound freedom means a chance to give back to communities through volunteering. What better way to while away the hours than by making a meaningful difference in the lives of others and reap the rewards of volunteering in retirement?

If you decide to take up a voluntary role in the community, on an ad hoc or more permanent basis, there’s some good news! It’s not just those that you are giving your time to who will enjoy the benefits of your volunteering. Organisations such as the Royal Voluntary Service say more than 80% of their volunteers find improved mental health and sense of well-being as a result. Even better, almost half think it has improved their physical health too.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

Here, we delve into the many of the rewards of volunteering in retirement and how it can enrich this new chapter of your life. We’ll also make some suggestions as to volunteering roles that could help you to make a real difference.

SO, WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING IN RETIREMENT?

Purpose, fulfilment, and making a difference

Volunteering provides you with a renewed sense of purpose and fulfilment. Contributing time, skills, and expertise to causes you care about can have a positive impact on them and you. Whether it’s mentoring youth, caring for animals, or serving meals to the homeless, volunteering offers a meaningful way to leave a lasting legacy. And perhaps the biggest rewards of volunteering in retirement is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Opportunities for further learning

Volunteering offers the chance to continue learning by exposing you to new experiences, challenges, and perspectives. Whether learning new skills through volunteer work or gaining insights into cultures and communities, it can keep you intellectually stimulated and engaged, throwing up lots of opportunities for personal development.

Physical and mental health benefits

As we touched on previously, engaging in volunteer activities can have significant benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Studies have shown that volunteering is associated with lower rates of depression, greater life satisfaction, and improved overall health.

An isolation antidote?

Giving your time freely to others can also be a way to combat feelings of isolation or loneliness that may arise when leaving the traditional work environment. Volunteering fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie. It can lead to strong new friendships forged through a common desire to give back to others.

IDEAS FOR VOLUNTARY ROLES YOU COULD TAKE

If you’re looking to become a volunteer and need some inspiration, then here are just a few ideas that could provide fulfilling and engaging ways to give your time.

Be a canine companion

If you’re a dog lover there are plenty of opportunities to make some new furry friends in your retirement. The Dog’s Trust has national vacancies for off-site dog walkers getting you out into the fresh air for exercise as often as you like, and ensuring the dogs at their rescue centres do the same. The Cinamon Trust is another national charity that pairs willing participants with elderly people who may have limited mobility or health conditions that mean they can’t walk their pets as often as they’d like. Their volunteering programmes help people to keep their beloved pets, without the animal having to be rehomed.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ON THE DOG’S TRUST

Preserve our heritage

Volunteering for the National Trust is a remarkable opportunity to immerse yourself in the preservation and celebration of Britain’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Your time may be spent helping to maintain Britain’s historic properties, tending to gardens, leading guided tours, or engaging with visitors. The bonus of volunteering for the National Trust is the chance to explore stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks, delve into fascinating history, and connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for conservation.

It’s extremely easy to find an opportunity near you. Simply visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/support-us/volunteer and click on ‘search our volunteer roles’ to find the nearest place looking for helpers.

Become a shopaholic

Many charity shops are reliant upon volunteers which helps them to make profits out of second-hand donations without adding wages to the list of expensive overheads. You may spend your days organising merchandise, assisting customers, or managing donations, and you’ll play a vital role in the day-to-day operations of the shop.

Perhaps you have a history in retail, or you simply enjoy the company of others, if so, lending your time and skills to a charity shop can make a tangible difference. Volunteering in a charity shop also helps you to stay active and meet like-minded individuals who share their passion for giving back.

British Heart Foundation has charity shop volunteer roles across the country

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

Help with hunger

The cost-of-living crisis has thrown even more people into financial hardship and food poverty meaning that volunteering in a soup kitchen, homeless shelter, or food bank is a powerful way to make a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of those facing hardship in your community.

Volunteers play a vital role in addressing the immediate needs of vulnerable individuals and families. By contacting one of these organisations, you can offer compassion, support, and dignity to those experiencing difficult circumstances. It’s a humbling and rewarding experience that requires passion, generosity, and understanding.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING VOLUNTEERS’ WEEK?

Volunteers Week is a fantastic opportunity to kick off your volunteering career. It throws the spotlight on volunteering opportunities and helps to unite causes with potential volunteers who are keen to take their first step towards a more philanthropic lifestyle.

From open days to celebration events, every year hundreds of online and in-person activities take place across the UK to mark Volunteers’ Week and celebrate volunteers.

This year Volunteers’ Week will culminate in The Big Help Out, from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 June, where people across the UK will get the chance to experience a range of volunteer taster sessions.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

In conclusion, the rewards of volunteering in retirement are varied and exciting. From finding a purpose and forging social connections to promoting physical and mental well-being. By giving back to communities and making a difference in the lives of others, you can find fulfilment, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose. So, whether it’s a few hours a week or a long-term commitment why not consider volunteering in your retirement?

Contact Burghley Retirement Living to browse our collection of luxury retirement apartments in Shipley, Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, and Brighouse. Visit https://burghleyretirement.co.uk/locations/ to download a brochure or call 0800 999 1989 to arrange a personal tour.

THE VALUE OF NEW FRIENDSHIPS FOUND IN RETIREMENT

Retirement living is much more than just a relaxed, more carefree way of living, it’s also a driver for retirees to forge friendships with like-minded people in later life. And retirement communities provide an ideal environment for socialising with those at the same life stage and with similar interests. It’s not just the joy of newfound friendships that makes this aspect of retirement living so rewarding. Companionship in later life can significantly enhance a person’s overall well-being too. Sharing experiences, offering support, and enjoying each other’s company can bring a sense of belonging, but studies consistently show that strong social connections are linked to better mental and emotional health as we age.

FRIENDSHIPS AND OLDER PEOPLE – THE FACTS

• Age UK and the Global Council on Brain Health, advise that “keeping up ties to friends and family and taking part in social activities may help people stay sharp as they age.”

• Some 3.8 million individuals over the age of 65 live alone in the UK, 58% of whom are over 75.6. Half of the over-80s live alone.

• By 2032 there will be five million people over eighty living in the UK. According to latest government forecasts, the number of people aged over 80 is set to rise from around 3.2 million today to 5 million in 2032.

• Persistently feeling lonely is one of the major risk factors for cognitive decline and dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
• A Harvard Study found that lonely people aged 60 to 79 were three times more likely to develop dementia than their counterparts who did not report feeling lonely.
• A quarter of older people would like to make new friends but have no idea how to do so.
• Around 1.5 million people aged 50 and over are always or often lonely. Projections from Age UK suggest that this could rise to two million people within the next 10 years.

Loneliness makes it harder for people to regulate behaviours such as drinking, smoking, and over-eating, which in turn have their own significant negative outcomes.

MARIE BUCKINGHAM, DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR FOR BURGHLEY RETIREMENT LIVING

Talking of her experience of the importance of friendships in retirement and how it contributes wholeheartedly to happiness and retention of mental and physical capacity for her owners, Marie Buckingham, development director for Burghley Retirement Living said:

“As people age their circle of friends gets smaller, and the loneliness creeps in. We want our owners to be active in the community, making and maintaining friendships, because we see first-hand how important this is in later life.

Countless numbers of our retirees move to our properties and make lasting bonds with like-minded people, and that contributes to their overall happiness and well-being. It’s so important; with links not just to physical fitness but slowing cognitive decline and conditions such as dementia too.”

She continued: “Owners of Burghley Retirement Living properties often highlight that one of the most valuable and unexpected aspects of moving to a luxury retirement property is the new friendships they have made. It’s wonderful to see the bonds that quickly form when people live close to one another and share a similar outlook on life.

Friends made in retirement living often become more than just social companions; they become an invaluable support system – there to lend a listening ear during challenging times and are there to celebrate life’s joys together. It’s a hugely important aspect of enjoying a healthy and fulfilling retirement.”

HOW BURGHLEY RETIREMENT LIVING HELPS

Burghley Retirement Living developments are designed to actively encourage owners to widen their circle of friends.

• All properties are built with comfortable and sociable lounges / communal areas that encourage people to mingle.
• A comprehensive programme of social events brings people together.
• Moving to a community gives you instant neighbours.
• Some contain gyms where apartment owners can work out together.
• Communities offer use of guest suites, so owners can have friends from further afield to stay, when otherwise these relationships may dwindle.
• Developments are positioned with close links to local amenities and facilities, so that either by public transport or a flat pedestrian route to the town, owners can interact with many people and stay an active part of the community.

But why just take our word for it? Here our Royles Lodge retirement living owners Pam and Sue describe how their friendship blossomed when they took the leap to retirement living.

PAMELA WHITEMAN, ROYLES LODGE

I wanted to live in the area to be near to my daughter and I watched them build Royles Lodge. I wanted to move here for a long time because of the location. You don’t need a car as there’s a good bus route to Fleetwood and Cleveleys. It’s also near the doctors and dentist. So, it’s ideal for me.

Moving here has lifted the pressure of owning a house. There’s no maintenance; it’s all done for you. There’s a communal lounge where lots of us meet up for a sit, chat, and glass of wine. And Kerry, our Lodge Manager, is brilliant. She sorts everything!

I didn’t know Sue before I moved here, but now she’s my friend and neighbour. She’s got a lovely sense of humour, and I liked her straight away. We meet up here at in the communal lounge a few times a week and also go to Harmony and Health together – a singing group.

I like the independence of having my own home, but also being with others. I really have the best of both worlds here.

SUE COPSON, ROYLES LODGE

Moving to Royles Lodge is the best thing I have ever done.

I used to go to a beautician opposite the development, so I watched it being built. It made me realise it was time for a move, which was a big decision for me. But it was the right one. I wanted to stay in this area, so I came to look around.

I now have a beautiful apartment and Kerry [Lodge Manager], is absolutely wonderful. When I came to visit and moved in, Kerry made me feel so comfortable. She is so special and can do anything!

I was worried about being on my own at first, but I realise now that I never need to be lonely again. I met Pam and we got on so well. She is good company; we talk about anything, and she lives right next door to me which is wonderful. We take part in the activities that Kerry organises in the lounge such as our Christmas party and Chinese New Year event. And we often meet other people in the lounge for a glass of wine or cup of tea and a natter.

I feel so happy that I made the move to Royles Lodge and new friends like Pam make it a happy place to live.

ROYLES LODGE MANAGER, KERRY EDWARDS:

Kerry is the popular Lodge Manager at Royles Lodge, and she added: “We encourage socialising between our retirees because we know there are so many benefits, but very often it just happens naturally, as it has with Sue and Pam. It’s so lovely to see.

“Watching people come together at Royles Lodge is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.

“I think that starting up a conversation and building connections is less daunting in a retirement living situation, because there is no pressure on our owners and there are lots of opportunities to mingle. Whether it’s over a game of cards, during a fitness class, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee together, there are so many opportunities to meet new people and cultivate meaningful relationships.”

To find out more about how you could join a supportive retirement community in Shipley, Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, and Brighouse, Click here to download a brochure or call 0800 999 1989 arrange a personal tour.

As our loved one’s approach retirement, ensuring they continue to have a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle is the number one priority. Retirement should be an exciting phase of life. Planning and considering all areas of retirement properly can help your older relatives to embrace a new chapter fully, so that it can enjoyed carefree, without stress and concerns.

Supporting your parents in retirement living planning involves careful consideration on various factors, from financial preparation to lifestyle preferences. And remember, it’s never too soon to start organising downsize plans to create the active retirement they want.  Here’s a step-by-step guide with 10 ways to help your parents plan for retirement living:

Start Conversations Early

Initiate open and honest discussions about retirement plans before your parents reach retirement age. And there is no better time than the new year to take control of the retirement future they want to enjoy.

Your parents may want to make a significant move before retirement, so they are already settled when retirement comes. Burghley Retirement Living developments are designed for people with active lives aged 55 years and over, whether owners are retired already or not. Your parents can still downsize and move into one of our luxury apartments now, in readiness for the future.

If you are to help parents or older relatives plan their retirement, it is crucial that you understand their goals, preferences, and concerns regarding their living and financial arrangements during retirement. These conversations lay the foundation for effective planning.

Assess Financial Security

If you are financially savvy, you can assist your parent to assess their financial situation ahead of retirement. Alternatively, suggest that they review their finances with an independent financial advisor to check they are on track for the retirement they envisage. Review savings, investments, pensions, and any retirement accounts to create a comprehensive retirement plan aligned with their income and expenses.

Explore Living Options

Discuss various retirement living options based on their preferences and needs. These could range from aging in place (staying at home with modifications for safety and accessibility as your parents age) to downsizing to a smaller home or moving to a retirement community such as Burghley Retirement Living. Depending on their age and mobility you could also explore assisted living facilities or have a retirement living apartment adapted to suit their needs.

At Burghley Retirement Living we have a number of luxury retirement properties that are ideally suited to independent living within a community of like-minded residents. All our properties are modern, fresh, and inviting, with onsite managers who take care of the day-to-day maintenance, organise social events, and offer a daily contact call with owners which can provide peace of mind to relatives.

Research Retirement Locations

It’s not just the physical living space but the locality that is important when considering a retirement move. Long-term, it is beneficial to be close by to local amenities (within walking distance or on a bus route). Even if your parents can drive now and are very independent, there may come a time when feeling connected to the local community is vital for their mental and physical well-being. That’s why Burghley Retirement Living builds its retirement communities within local communities – so accessing services is easy.  And don’t forget, you can visit our developments before you commit to anything and meet the lodge manager and other owners.

Research and visit several options together. Look for amenities, healthcare services, recreational activities, and the overall atmosphere that aligns with their lifestyle choices. Very often the right place will give you a ‘feeling’ but it’s important to make a practical check list too.

Address Health And Long-Term Care

Discuss health care needs and potential long-term care considerations. If your parents have the resources, it’s worth exploring life and critical illness insurance options that cover healthcare expenses and long-term care services. This will ensure your parents are adequately prepared for any unforeseen medical issues.

If they have a niggling or ongoing health issue, now is the time to fully tackle it, finding the best way to rectify or manage it for the longer term.

Delve Into Legal And Estate Planning

Encourage your parents to create or update legal documents such as wills, trusts, and healthcare directives. This is a statement explaining what medical treatment they would or would not want to have in the future. Make sure that they consult with a solicitor to ensure their wishes are legally documented and can be followed easily.

Power of attorney is one of the most important conversations you can have with an older relative. It’s vital that this is in place should you need to step in and make decisions for your parents around their care in the future.

Offer Emotional Support For The Transition

Recognising that the transition into retirement living can be an emotional challenge is important for your parents. It acknowledges their feelings and can help them to process and negative emotions around the transition.

You can help them by offering support. Listen to their concerns and involve them in decision-making to maintain their sense of control and autonomy. It often helps to also talk to other people who have made a similar move.

Encourage Social Engagement

Emphasise the importance of social connections in retirement to your parents. Encourage participation in community activities, clubs, or volunteering opportunities to foster a sense of belonging and purpose.

If your parents are moving to a retirement apartment like a Burghley Retirement Living property, then there will be a programme of events that encourage social interaction and forging friendships. Your lodge manager will be able to share the list of upcoming activities so you can help your parents to plan their social calendar and what to do with their newfound free time.

Schedule Regular Reviews And Adjustments

Just like anything in life, retirement plans may need adjustments over time in line with external factors and your parents’ own changing situation. Make regular check ins to assess your parents’ needs, preferences, and financial situation. You can plan any necessary adaptations to ensure their comfort and well-being.

Adopting Self-Care For Caregivers

Finally, remember to take care of yourself. Assisting your parents in retirement planning can be emotionally taxing. Change is difficult in any phase of life. Seek support from other family members when needed – if you have siblings, it should be a joint task rather than falling to one person’s shoulders.

Engaging the services of professionals when needed can take any emotional charge from the situation. Remember to prioritise your own well-being so that you are in the best shape to look after your older relatives.

By actively engaging in discussions, understanding your parents’ needs, and assisting in planning, you can help your parents to transition into retirement living with confidence and ease. Ultimately, supporting them in this phase of life can foster peace of mind and a fulfilling retirement experience.

To find out more about luxury retirement living in Shipley, Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, and Brighouse, visit https://burghleyretirement.co.uk/locations/

The festive season is upon us, and now is the perfect time to infuse your gatherings with a dash of sophistication and Christmas cheer.

If you’re recently retired or have moved to a retirement living apartment, well you may find that you have more time to channel into things you love – like hosting a memorable Christmas party!  Rather than dashing from place to place and surrendering to festive stress, you can now enjoy time spent planning and prepping – a brilliant upshot of the freedom from downsizing to a more suitable property. You’ll have more time to curate a harmonious blend of delightful cocktails, rustle up some delectable canapés, and consider how to foster an ambiance for joy – and connection.

Here are some Christmas party tips with cocktails and canapes to suit all, and ideas to help you craft a sensational soirée that will leave your guests suitably impressed.

A FORMAL INVITATION

Kick things off how you mean to go on by sending formal (ideally printed) invitations. It’s so much more thoughtful than a simple text and will give your guests a flavour of what’s to come. You could make these yourself in line with your theme or have them printed. There are some lovely hand-crafted ideas on Etsy, so why not take a browse and include them with your Christmas cards this year.

DREAM FESTIVE DECOR

Firstly, set the scene with elegant decorations – fill the space with twinkling lights, lush greenery, and tasteful ornaments – you can read our blog on downsizing and up styling your Christmas decorations if you need inspiration on how to dress a smaller space.

A beautifully adorned tree and festive centrepieces can instantly elevate the ambiance, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

THE SCENT OF CHRISTMAS

Consider all the senses when you’re setting the stage – scented candles or a diffuser can infuse the room and embrace your guests with welcoming fragrance. Or why not try your hand at a seasonal simmer pot – a superb, natural, DIY way to fill your room with cosy scent. Pop traditionally festive ingredients like cinnamon, cloves, oranges, cranberries, and seasonal herbs in a pan and simmer them on the hob or slow cooker to permeate the room with an all-encompassing Christmas glow.

https://www.homesandgardens.com/solved/simmer-pot-recipes-for-fall-and-winter

“BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE”

Welcome guests into the warmth. Now that you have a smaller space, and with the exceptional thermal insulation of a Burghley Retirement Living apartment, it’s easier to keep it at a suitable temperature to welcome guests in from the cold. There’s nothing worse than shivering at a party where somebody has neglected to turn the heating on. Keep your party stage at an ambient heat to suit your dress code.

COCKTAIL CORNER: SIGNATURE SERVES

Create a signature cocktail or two for the occasion. Classics like mulled wine, eggnog, or a festive twist on a martini can delight your guests. Consider offering a non-alcoholic option, like a sparkling cranberry mocktail, to cater to all preferences and ensure the designated drivers have some refreshing ad fulfilling options.

You could create some mixology magic and set up a DIY cocktail station. Provide various spirits, mixers, and garnishes along with recipe cards. This interactive element allows guests to craft their own cocktails, adding a fun and personalised touch.

If you’d prefer to be the cocktail master, then here are some of our favourites from cocktail and recipe experts:

Christmas Spiced Negroni

This classic cocktail gets its festive flavour from infusing gin with the essence of Christmas, which you can do a few days before. Find the full recipe here:

https://www.olivemagazine.com/recipes/cocktails-and-drinks/christmas-spiced-negroni/

Gingerbread Martini

Sweet tooth? Star baker? Combine confectionary creation with mixology by adorning this creamy cocktail with homemade gingerbread cookies for the sweetest of Christmas treats.

https://www.delish.com/holiday-recipes/christmas/g860/holiday-cocktails/?slide=1

Non-alcoholic Buttered Rum

There’s a whole host of inspiration for cocktails (sans alcohol) from Town & Country Magazine, but by far the most indulgent mocktail is the non-alcoholic buttered rum. Just divine.

https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/drinks/g3122/christmas-mocktail-recipes/

CANAPÉS GALORE: BITE-SIZED DELIGHTS

Canapes are perfect for catering to a range of different tastes without over facing guests and keeping the night light and carefree. If it’s all you plan for your menu, then it’s best to let guests now ahead of time that there won’t be a substantial dinner.  From classic cheese and crackers to more adventurous options like smoked salmon blinis or fig and goat cheese crostini, offer an array of bite-sized delights.

Focus on presentation. Arrange the canapés on elegant platters or tiered trays to create an enticing display. Incorporate seasonal elements like cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or fresh herbs to add a festive touch to your culinary spread. You can place these on coffee tables and side tables around the room, so people can mix and mingle informally.

OUR FAVOURITE CANAPÉ INSPIRATION

Beetroot Tacos with Goat’s Cheese

These mini beetroot tacos from Olive Magazine add a pop of vibrant festive colour to your party and they’re the perfect veggie treat for the non-carnivores.

https://www.olivemagazine.com/recipes/entertain/pickled-beetroot-tacos-with-goats-cheese/

Pancetta Cheddar and Cranberry Croquettes

These golden crispy croquettes are an indulgent bite of festive bliss. Yet they’re so simple to put together and can be frozen until you’re ready to use them. We’re all for time saving cheats! Especially when they taste this good.

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/pancetta-cheddar-cranberry-croquettes

Orange Curd Mini Tarts

Canapes don’t have to stay in the realms of the savoury. Try these mini tarts with citrus flavours enriched with vanilla mascarpone to wow those who can’t resist something sweet to round off the finger buffet.

https://www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/recipes/orange-curd-mini-tarts/

Prefer to cheat? Ok, so if you are not the world’s greatest cook, you can still host a canape celebration.  Many leading supermarkets will stock nibbles and light bites, so order online and have them delivered to your retirement apartment. Cook, and decant onto pretty plates.  The key here is presentation.  A sprinkle of icing sugar over a tower of mini mince pies makes it look so much more inviting. And, much more homemade (shh….we wont tell).

MEMORIES IN THE MAKING

In essence, the key to a successful Christmas party is to enjoy the process. So often you may have spent the festive season in a whirlwind of panic, tending to everyone’s needs but your own. Now it’s time to relax and enjoy the party curation process, as well as the end result. It’s the only surefire way to create cherished memories that will linger long after the last sip is taken, and the final bite enjoyed.

And one of the benefits of a retirement living apartment – well two actually – is that you can host your party in the communal lounge when the RSVPs outgrow your apartment.  And your neighbours can all be invited, with only a few footsteps home after all those cocktails.

Cheers to a truly unforgettable Christmas gathering!

To find out more about luxury retirement living in Shipley, Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, and Brighouse, visit https://burghleyretirement.co.uk/locations/

At Burghley Retirement Living, we are built on the ethos that a business is only as good as the people behind it. For us, the concept is even more important, because our staff are directly responsible for people feeling content, safe and happy in their own homes.
It’s for this reason that we carefully select our staff, not just on their qualifications but their personality and how they fit with the Burghley Retirement Living philosophy.

We want a team of warm, genuine people who sincerely care about our retirement apartment residents and will go over and above for them. And we think we have it!

So we’d like to introduce you to the team at Burghley Retirement Living, here we meet Lisa, who is the lodge manager at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby.
Read on to find out more about Lisa, who’s door is always open for a smile, a chat, and a cup of tea.

What did you do before you came to Albany Lodge?

I previously worked as a civilian in the British Army as a mover, this entailed moving Military soldiers around the world. Organising flights, removals, hire cars & accommodation. This could be up to 300 personnel at any one time.

What does a day as a lodge manger usually entail?

As a lodge manager we are there to support residents to the best of our ability & to help a smooth transition into retirement living. We are always on hand to listen to solve any problems should they occur, to arrange trades people if required, organise events & maintain the day to day running of the lodges.

Can you describe the lodge you look after?

We are very lucky to have two blocks at Albany Lodge which both have stunning communal lounges to meet up for coffee & a chat. There are also two beautiful guest suites a fitness suite, a quiet lounge filled with books when you need a little escapism and finally a craft room. The atmosphere is caring & friendly.

The buildings are modern fresh & contemporary with a sprinkling of elegance, the Apartments are where you add your own little bit of magic ‘ Although a blank canvas the kitchens & bathrooms  are  very well designed  with everything you need as well as being spacious & airy.

What in your opinion is the main advantage of moving into a property like this?

The advantages are endless, just knowing that you will never feel loneliness & someone is always on hand to help should you need it.   That you can travel in the knowledge your home is safe & secure. You can participate in activities, meet up with other residents or have quiet time in your apartment, the choice is yours. Colder months you don’t have to venture far should you not wish to as the Lodges have so much to offer, meaning you have it all on your doorstep.

Find out more

Burghley Retirement Living is dedicated to producing luxurious retirement apartments for the over 55s; with beautiful developments in Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, Brighouse, and Shipley.

To find out more about life at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby, or to book a personal tour at any time CLICK HERE or call 0800 999 1989.

At Burghley Retirement Living, we are built on the ethos that a business is only as good as the people behind it. For us, the concept is even more important, because our staff are directly responsible for people feeling content, safe and happy in their own homes.
It’s for this reason that we carefully select our staff, not just on their qualifications but their personality and how they fit with the Burghley Retirement Living philosophy.

We want a team of warm, genuine people who sincerely care about our retirement apartment residents and will go over and above for them. And we think we have it!

So we’d like to introduce you to the team at Burghley Retirement Living, here we meet Lisa, who is the lodge manager at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby.
Read on to find out more about Lisa, who’s door is always open for a smile, a chat, and a cup of tea.

What did you do before you came to Albany Lodge?

I previously worked as a civilian in the British Army as a mover, this entailed moving Military soldiers around the world. Organising flights, removals, hire cars & accommodation. This could be up to 300 personnel at any one time.

What does a day as a lodge manger usually entail?

As a lodge manager we are there to support residents to the best of our ability & to help a smooth transition into retirement living. We are always on hand to listen to solve any problems should they occur, to arrange trades people if required, organise events & maintain the day to day running of the lodges.

Can you describe the lodge you look after?

We are very lucky to have two blocks at Albany Lodge which both have stunning communal lounges to meet up for coffee & a chat. There are also two beautiful guest suites a fitness suite, a quiet lounge filled with books when you need a little escapism and finally a craft room. The atmosphere is caring & friendly.

The buildings are modern fresh & contemporary with a sprinkling of elegance, the Apartments are where you add your own little bit of magic ‘ Although a blank canvas the kitchens & bathrooms  are  very well designed  with everything you need as well as being spacious & airy.

What in your opinion is the main advantage of moving into a property like this?

The advantages are endless, just knowing that you will never feel loneliness & someone is always on hand to help should you need it.   That you can travel in the knowledge your home is safe & secure. You can participate in activities, meet up with other residents or have quiet time in your apartment, the choice is yours. Colder months you don’t have to venture far should you not wish to as the Lodges have so much to offer, meaning you have it all on your doorstep.

Find out more

Burghley Retirement Living is dedicated to producing luxurious retirement apartments for the over 55s; with beautiful developments in Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, Brighouse, and Shipley.

To find out more about life at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby, or to book a personal tour at any time CLICK HERE or call 0800 999 1989.

The Alderman Lodge retirement living development on Elmwood Drive, Brighouse, has reached a key stage in its construction progress, as the company behind the project, Burghley Retirement Living, launched its show apartments this week.

Following a local competition earlier this year, Burghley Retirement Living named the scheme in honour of Alderman William Smith, the first mayor of the town. Now people have the chance to see how the finished development will look, with one- and two-bedroom show apartments available to tour.

The Alderman Lodge development will provide luxury homes exclusively for the over 55s, with a collection of 15 one-bedroom and 22 two-bedroom apartments for sale, alongside stunning communal facilities including a homeowner’s communal lounge, and a hotel-style guest suite.

Marie Buckingham, development director for Burghley Retirement Living, said: “This is an important stage in the completion of Alderman Lodge.  It’s when the apartments and overall development starts to come to life, giving people the opportunity to see exactly how the luxury interiors are carefully designed and styled, with the over 55s in mind.

“I also appreciate that not everyone planning ahead for retirement living can visit the apartments during work hours, especially if they are not yet retired or want to bring working family along, so we have extended our times for personal tours to allow local people to visit us at weekends or evenings, by appointment.”

To find out more about Burghley Retirement Living in Brighouse or book a personal tour of the show apartments, call 0800 999 1989 or click here

Even before you choose to move into one of our luxury retirement villages, when you are at the start of your journey looking at retirement flats for sale chances are, the first person you will meet when you visit our retirement apartments, is Pamela. 

Pamela is our Senior Property Consultant and with over 18 years of experience in the new homes and retirement living sector, she is on hand to help make your journey as smooth and simple as possible. 

We asked her about her experience in retirement living and found out a little bit more about her. 

Who was your favourite ever client and why? 

Many years ago, when a colleague of mine was retiring I took over their post at a retirement living development and I have a memory that will stay with me forever, the pleasure of meeting Joan. 

Each morning I would see a lady walking past the development to visit the nearby shops, she would always stop and look at the entrance however, would never come in. After some time had passed I mentioned it to my colleague who told me she had been stopping and looking at the development on her way to the shops for over year but had never come in.  

I knew that sometimes finding the courage to take that extra step can be daunting, so the following morning when she was walking past I popped outside to greet her and invited her in for a cup of tea and a biscuit. She gladly accepted but was keen to point out that she wasn’t ready for a “care home”, and, at 89 felt like she was far too old to move. 

I found her spark and strong independent nature refreshing, we instantly clicked and had a long chat over tea and biscuits. As I grew to know Joan, she told me that she had lived on her own for over 36 years, and quite often didn’t see a soul for weeks. I asked her if she had heard of “retirement living” as it was the perfect solution for her to keep her independence, whilst not feeling lonely and missing out on socialising. 

Joan had assumed that she had been walking past a “care home” and didn’t realise the thriving vibrant community and the independence that “retirement living” offered. 

Once she realised that the retirement living development was not a “care home”, she instantly asked to be shown around the apartments and to see the communal homeowners lounge.  

It was wonderful to see how amazed Joan was at the size of the apartments and the facilities they contained and I could see how delighted she was when we bumped into a couple in the homeowner’s lounge who were keen to stop to chat with Joan.  

At the end of the tour, Joan told me that she thought the development was “fantastic!” and that she didn’t really know what “retirement living” was all about, until now. She was very excited about the idea of living in one of the apartments and making new friends but, she was unsure if she could move as she didn’t think her daughter would want her to move out of their family home. We said our goodbyes, but Joan was insistent that she would be back to visit again. 

A short two weeks later Joan, and her daughter popped in for a cuppa and a chat. We took a tour of the apartments and after a few friendly waves and “hello’s” from other homeowners Joan was adamant that she wanted this to be her new home.  

Her daughter was in full agreement and they reserved a 1-bed ground floor apartment on the spot. 

Whilst we left Joan to take another look at her apartment, her daughter quietly thanked me for inviting Joan in to see the development. She admitted that she worried that her Mum was lonely and said that she found it hard to juggle her own busy family life and to spend as much time with her as she would have liked.  

One of the things that did surprise Joan’s daughter was the modern facilities; “I’d like to move in here myself” she quipped, and she was impressed by the security because she said it would “give her peace of mind that Mum was safe when she wasn’t around.” 

A few weeks later we arranged to sell Joan’s property using the assisted move scheme and helped her find a trusted solicitor to do the conveyancing for selling her current home and buying her new apartment. We also organised the removals to make things easy and quick for Joan and just like that,10 weeks later, Joan and her little dog Marty were living in their retirement apartment. 

This is a standout story for me because it gave me immense satisfaction to know the part that I had played in enriching Joan’s life, enabling her to make new friends and attend social events with like-minded people, in a safe and secure environment, whilst retaining her independence. 

 What is the most frequently asked question about Alderman Lodge?  

People are always asking me “How much are the luxury retirement apartments?”. The quick answer is “They start from £194,950”, however, it’s always best to get in touch with me and we can chat through your exact requirements as each flat is unique and we have a range of different orientations and layouts available to choose from. For example, all of the ground floor apartments include a patio area and the first and second-floor retirement living apartments have fabulous balconies!   

What is your favourite part of the Alderman Lodge development? 

I love where it is in Brighouse! It’s so close to everything you need, situated just off Elmwood Drive in a quiet area but just a short walk from the town centre  where you can enjoy the lovely Brighouse community. 

What are your top tips for moving into an over 55s apartment? 

My top tip is always the same, enquire early to ensure that you get the apartment that you want! If your heart is set on a south-facing apartment with a balcony, the earlier you get in touch, the better. Plus, long term, I’ve found that you always benefit from buying off-plan as it means you have the option to choose some of the apartment features and personalise your home before you move in. 

What is your favourite place to spend time in Brighouse? 

I love to wander down into the town whenever I get a chance, it’s a great place for a walk and there are a lot of choices if you fancy a bite to eat at one of the many excellent coffee shops. 

At Burghley Retirement Living, we are built on the ethos that a business is only as good as the people behind it. For us, the concept is even more important, because our staff are directly responsible for people feeling content, safe and happy in their own homes.
It’s for this reason that we carefully select our staff, not just on their qualifications but their personality and how they fit with the Burghley Retirement Living philosophy.

We want a team of warm, genuine people who sincerely care about our retirement apartment residents and will go over and above for them. And we think we have it!

So we’d like to introduce you to the team at Burghley Retirement Living, here we meet Lisa, who is the lodge manager at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby.
Read on to find out more about Lisa, who’s door is always open for a smile, a chat, and a cup of tea.

What did you do before you came to Albany Lodge?

I previously worked as a civilian in the British Army as a mover, this entailed moving Military soldiers around the world. Organising flights, removals, hire cars & accommodation. This could be up to 300 personnel at any one time.

What does a day as a lodge manger usually entail?

As a lodge manager we are there to support residents to the best of our ability & to help a smooth transition into retirement living. We are always on hand to listen to solve any problems should they occur, to arrange trades people if required, organise events & maintain the day to day running of the lodges.

Can you describe the lodge you look after?

We are very lucky to have two blocks at Albany Lodge which both have stunning communal lounges to meet up for coffee & a chat. There are also two beautiful guest suites a fitness suite, a quiet lounge filled with books when you need a little escapism and finally a craft room. The atmosphere is caring & friendly.

The buildings are modern fresh & contemporary with a sprinkling of elegance, the Apartments are where you add your own little bit of magic ‘ Although a blank canvas the kitchens & bathrooms  are  very well designed  with everything you need as well as being spacious & airy.

What in your opinion is the main advantage of moving into a property like this?

The advantages are endless, just knowing that you will never feel loneliness & someone is always on hand to help should you need it.   That you can travel in the knowledge your home is safe & secure. You can participate in activities, meet up with other residents or have quiet time in your apartment, the choice is yours. Colder months you don’t have to venture far should you not wish to as the Lodges have so much to offer, meaning you have it all on your doorstep.

Find out more

Burghley Retirement Living is dedicated to producing luxurious retirement apartments for the over 55s; with beautiful developments in Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, Brighouse, and Shipley.

To find out more about life at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby, or to book a personal tour at any time CLICK HERE or call 0800 999 1989.

At Burghley Retirement Living, we are built on the ethos that a business is only as good as the people behind it. For us, the concept is even more important, because our staff are directly responsible for people feeling content, safe and happy in their own homes.
It’s for this reason that we carefully select our staff, not just on their qualifications but their personality and how they fit with the Burghley Retirement Living philosophy.

We want a team of warm, genuine people who sincerely care about our retirement apartment residents and will go over and above for them. And we think we have it!

So we’d like to introduce you to the team at Burghley Retirement Living, here we meet Lisa, who is the lodge manager at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby.
Read on to find out more about Lisa, who’s door is always open for a smile, a chat, and a cup of tea.

What did you do before you came to Albany Lodge?

I previously worked as a civilian in the British Army as a mover, this entailed moving Military soldiers around the world. Organising flights, removals, hire cars & accommodation. This could be up to 300 personnel at any one time.

What does a day as a lodge manger usually entail?

As a lodge manager we are there to support residents to the best of our ability & to help a smooth transition into retirement living. We are always on hand to listen to solve any problems should they occur, to arrange trades people if required, organise events & maintain the day to day running of the lodges.

Can you describe the lodge you look after?

We are very lucky to have two blocks at Albany Lodge which both have stunning communal lounges to meet up for coffee & a chat. There are also two beautiful guest suites a fitness suite, a quiet lounge filled with books when you need a little escapism and finally a craft room. The atmosphere is caring & friendly.

The buildings are modern fresh & contemporary with a sprinkling of elegance, the Apartments are where you add your own little bit of magic ‘ Although a blank canvas the kitchens & bathrooms  are  very well designed  with everything you need as well as being spacious & airy.

What in your opinion is the main advantage of moving into a property like this?

The advantages are endless, just knowing that you will never feel loneliness & someone is always on hand to help should you need it.   That you can travel in the knowledge your home is safe & secure. You can participate in activities, meet up with other residents or have quiet time in your apartment, the choice is yours. Colder months you don’t have to venture far should you not wish to as the Lodges have so much to offer, meaning you have it all on your doorstep.

Find out more

Burghley Retirement Living is dedicated to producing luxurious retirement apartments for the over 55s; with beautiful developments in Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, Brighouse, and Shipley.

To find out more about life at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby, or to book a personal tour at any time CLICK HERE or call 0800 999 1989.

At Burghley Retirement Living, we are built on the ethos that a business is only as good as the people behind it. For us, the concept is even more important, because our staff are directly responsible for people feeling content, safe and happy in their own homes.
It’s for this reason that we carefully select our staff, not just on their qualifications but their personality and how they fit with the Burghley Retirement Living philosophy.

We want a team of warm, genuine people who sincerely care about our retirement apartment residents and will go over and above for them. And we think we have it!

So we’d like to introduce you to the team at Burghley Retirement Living, here we meet Lisa, who is the lodge manager at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby.
Read on to find out more about Lisa, who’s door is always open for a smile, a chat, and a cup of tea.

What did you do before you came to Albany Lodge?

I previously worked as a civilian in the British Army as a mover, this entailed moving Military soldiers around the world. Organising flights, removals, hire cars & accommodation. This could be up to 300 personnel at any one time.

What does a day as a lodge manger usually entail?

As a lodge manager we are there to support residents to the best of our ability & to help a smooth transition into retirement living. We are always on hand to listen to solve any problems should they occur, to arrange trades people if required, organise events & maintain the day to day running of the lodges.

Can you describe the lodge you look after?

We are very lucky to have two blocks at Albany Lodge which both have stunning communal lounges to meet up for coffee & a chat. There are also two beautiful guest suites a fitness suite, a quiet lounge filled with books when you need a little escapism and finally a craft room. The atmosphere is caring & friendly.

The buildings are modern fresh & contemporary with a sprinkling of elegance, the Apartments are where you add your own little bit of magic ‘ Although a blank canvas the kitchens & bathrooms  are  very well designed  with everything you need as well as being spacious & airy.

What in your opinion is the main advantage of moving into a property like this?

The advantages are endless, just knowing that you will never feel loneliness & someone is always on hand to help should you need it.   That you can travel in the knowledge your home is safe & secure. You can participate in activities, meet up with other residents or have quiet time in your apartment, the choice is yours. Colder months you don’t have to venture far should you not wish to as the Lodges have so much to offer, meaning you have it all on your doorstep.

Find out more

Burghley Retirement Living is dedicated to producing luxurious retirement apartments for the over 55s; with beautiful developments in Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, Brighouse, and Shipley.

To find out more about life at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby, or to book a personal tour at any time CLICK HERE or call 0800 999 1989.

National Walking Month is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the health benefits that walking can offer, especially for those over 55. Walking is not just a simple way to stay active, but it is also an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon, it not only boosts your mood but it can improve your overall health and wellbeing.  

Let’s start with the benefits of walking.  

If you’re not a regular at the local tennis courts or an avid marathon runner, low-impact walking is going to be one of the easiest ways to get back into exercise. 

Walking can provide a range of health benefits for those over 55, and getting outdoors near your retirement living apartment is free and easy to do. If the feeling of the sun on your face and the fresh air in your lungs still doesn’t entice you to start this healthy habit, we have pulled together 3 of the key benefits of walking that might just motivate you to head out on a walk this May. 

1. Improved Heart Health: Walking regularly can help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve cardiovascular health.
2. Increased Mobility: Walking can help improve mobility and flexibility, which can be especially beneficial for older adults who may experience stiffness or joint pain. 
3. Better Mood: Walking can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall mental health and well-being.

3 Easy Walks to Try Out 

Our retirement living villages in Brighouse, Derby and Thornton Cleveleys are perfectly positioned for enjoying a variety of interesting walks. We have picked our favourite walks near each retirement living location. 

1) Alderman Lodge, Brighouse  

The Brighouse Canal Walk is a scenic route that showcases beautiful views of the Calder and Hebble Navigation Canal and the surrounding countryside. The walk begins at Brighouse Basin, which is a picturesque starting point in itself. If you fancy something light to eat before you walk, we recommend stopping at Jeremy’s at the Boathouse for some tapas and sitting on one of the outside tables. It’s a great place to people-watch as the basin is a popular spot for boaters and visitors alike, and it offers a peaceful and tranquil environment to start your walk. 

This is an easy walk (we estimate that it will take around 1.5 hours to complete) and can be cut short by simply turning around or cutting across one of the locks. To complete our full recommended walk, you need to follow the canal path towards Cooper Bridge and cross several locks before turning around and heading back the way you came. The locks offer a glimpse into the history of the canal and the industrial heritage of the area and are an impressive feat of engineering that are still used today by boats navigating the canal. 

As you walk along, you’ll be guaranteed to be entertained, there is a healthy mixture of countryside and urban landscapes, with sections passing through woodland areas and others through the more built-up areas of Brighouse. If you are lucky, you might even spot a duck, swan, or one of the other waterfowl that live on the canal! 

One of the highlights of the walk is entering the edge of the charming town of Mirfield at Cooper Bridge, which provides a handy pitstop! This area is home to several pubs and cafes, where you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat and take a break from your walk. 

Once you have had your pitstop, you can either cross to the other side of the canal to walk back to Brighouse Basin or turn around and use the same path. The marina (at Brighouse Basin) flanks the beginning and end of the walk and is a bustling hub of activity, with boats coming and going, it offers a great place to stop and watch the world go by. 

This is an easy walk suitable for all ages and abilities, and it’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise in a beautiful and peaceful setting. 

2) Albany Lodge, Derby 

Markeaton Park Walk – This easy walk is a great way to explore the beautiful Markeaton Park in Derby. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles long and takes around 1 hour to complete. The walk offers stunning views of the park’s gardens, lake, and woodland areas and is perfect for those looking for a leisurely stroll. 

Just a 5 minute drive from Albany Lodge retirement living village sits Markeaton Park. The Markeaton Park walk is a delightful stroll that is particularly beautiful in springtime, when the trees are starting to bud, and the flowers are blooming, making it an excellent time to take in nature. 

The walk begins at the Markeaton Park car park (where you can park your car for free) and is signposted at the car park entrance. From here, the walk takes you through the park’s stunning gardens, which are in full bloom during the spring months. You’ll see a variety of colourful flowers, including tulips, daffodils, and crocuses, as well as blossoming trees such as cherry blossom and apple trees. 

If you are a nature lover, the walk is perfect for you as it takes you to the park’s lake, which is home to a variety of waterfowl, including ducks and swans (perfect to bring the Grandchildren to feed the ducks over long May bank holiday weekends). If you have some extra time, we suggest a slight detour of walking around the lake, taking in the serene and tranquil surroundings and admiring the views of the park. 

If you follow the trail, you’ll be guided to the woodland area of the park which is particularly enchanting in the spring months, with the trees starting to grow and snowdrops shooting up from the earth. The woodland area is also home to confident squirrels (who often sit on the path) so you’ll be sure to spot one. 

Whilst this walk is very short (around an hour long), if you did want to take a break during your walk, there’s a lovely café located in the park’s courtyard, which offers a range of hot and cold drinks and snacks. Alternatively, there are several picnic areas in the park where you can stop and enjoy a packed lunch or a cup of tea. 

We love this walk as it changes with the seasons, it is particularly nice to enjoy nature on weekday mornings to beat the lunch crowd and enjoy the tranquillity of the area. 

3) Royles Lodge, Thornton Cleveleys  

Thornton Cleveleys Coastal Walk – We couldn’t recommend a walk in Thornton Cleveleys that didn’t have sea views! Whilst there are many inland options (including King George’s Playing Fields that are steps away from our retirement living apartments at Royles Lodge) nothing clears out the cobwebs like fresh sea air! 

The Thornton Cleveleys Coastal Walk is a beautiful and scenic route that takes you along the Fylde Coast and offers breath-taking views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The walk starts at Cleveleys Promenade and ends at Rossell Beach Promenade, and it is approximately 3 miles long. 

The walk is best enjoyed during low tide when you can see the vast expanse of the beach and the sea creatures that call it home. You might spot some sea birds, crabs, and other marine life in the tidal pools and exposed rocks. 

One of the highlights of the walk is the picturesque Cleveleys Beach, a beautiful stretch of golden sand that is perfect for relaxing and taking in the stunning views of the Irish Sea. The beach is a great spot for a picnic, sunbathing, or, if you could even bring your cossie for a refreshing dip in the sea during the warmer months. 

As you walk along the coast, you’ll also see the art installation, Mary’s Shell, and the iconic seafront shelters, which are a popular spot for taking a break and enjoying the view. You’ll pass through the beautiful Jubilee Gardens, where we recommend taking a moment to relax and appreciate the beautiful floral displays and the sea views. 

If you need a refreshment break during your walk, there are several cafes and pubs along the route where you can stop for a coffee, tea, or a bite to eat. Locals favourites include, The Venue, which is located on the seafront or The Queensway, which is situated just off the coastal path. 

The Thornton Cleveleys Coastal Walk is a wonderful way to get some exercise and take in the views of the Fylde Coast. With plenty of highlights along the way, it’s a great way to spend a few hours exploring this beautiful part of the country.

When you come to live with us in a luxury retirement living apartment, you are never too far away from a scenic walk. Walking is a simple and enjoyable way for those over 55 to stay active, boost their mood, and improve their overall health and well-being. So, why not take advantage of National Walking Month and try out these easy walks in Brighouse, Derby, and Thornton Cleveleys? You won’t regret it! 

The team at Burghley Retirement enjoyed the magic of World Book Day this year, thanks to the pupils at Thornton Primary School.

Pupils in Beech Class were invited to put pen to paper and write their own original stories, which were entered into a short story competition run by Burghley Retirement. Their stories were shared with the team at Royles Lodge to read and enjoy, as well as select three winners.

Ellie May Turner was crowned as the winner thanks to a fantastic story entitled ‘Why Babies Don’t Make Sense!’. Poppy Hill and Skyla Rose were chosen as the runners up with stories entitled ‘This One Girl’ and ‘The Girl Who’s Mind Went Boom!’. All three pupils were awarded a National Book Token to help them continue to enjoy their love of reading.

Declan Fishwick, Marketing Manager for Burghley Retirement Living, said “The enthusiasm and confidence from the children in telling their stories has been great fun to witness. We thoroughly enjoyed reading through each entry. We have some very talented young writers in Thornton-Cleveleys, it was hard to pick just one.”

“We want to say a big thank you to the pupils and teachers at Thornton Primary School for being so thoughtful, kind and making us part of their World Book Day celebrations. Hopefully next year we can invite them all to Royles Lodge to read to us in person!”.

As you approach retirement, it’s natural to start thinking about downsizing and simplifying your living situation. One option that may appeal to you is a retirement living development, which typically offers a range of amenities and social activities designed specifically for seniors.

Moving into a retirement living development can be a big decision, and it’s natural to want to make sure you’re making the right choice. One important step in the process is viewing a show flat, which is a fully furnished model apartment that gives you an idea of what the units in the development look like and how they are laid out. Here are a few reasons why viewing a show flat is a crucial step in the decision-making process:

Get a feel for the space: Seeing a show flat in person will give you a much better sense of the size and layout of the units than you’ll get from looking at floor plans or photos online. You’ll be able to walk through the space and get a feel for the flow of the apartment, which can be helpful in determining if it will meet your needs. You’ll also be able to see how your furniture and belongings would fit in the space, which can be especially important if you have a lot of larger pieces.

Check out the finishes and features: A show flat will also give you the chance to see the finishes and features of the units up close. You’ll be able to see the quality of the appliances, countertops, and fixtures, and get a sense of the overall design aesthetic. This can be particularly useful if you have specific preferences or requirements, such as needing a walk-in shower or wanting stainless steel appliances

Imagine yourself living there: Finally, viewing a show flat will help you picture yourself living in the development. You’ll be able to see how you might use the common areas, such as the outside space or community room, and get a feel for the overall vibe of the retirement living community. This can be especially important if you’re planning on being an active member of the senior living community and want to make sure it feels like a good fit.

In addition to these benefits, viewing a show flat can also give you the opportunity to ask questions and get more information about the development. You can ask about the types of homes available, the amenities offered, and the policies and procedures in place. You can also inquire about any additional fees or costs associated with living in the development, such as monthly maintenance fees or fees for use of certain amenities.

Overall, viewing a show flat is an essential step in deciding whether a retirement living development is right for you. It will give you a much better sense of what you can expect from the units and the community, and help you make an informed decision. It’s a small investment of time and effort that can pay off in the long run by giving you peace of mind and helping you find the perfect place to call home in retirement.

If you’re approaching retirement, you’ve likely given some thought to the next chapter of your life. Will you travel? Volunteer part-time? Move closer to family?

The type of home that you choose to live in makes up a large part of that conversation.

You could remain in your current house or, for example, move to a “granny flat” at your son’s or daughter’s home. You could also move to a bungalow, decide to rent, buy a campervan or retirement community.

Where you choose to live during your retirement years is a personal choice. Many people want to live somewhere that lets them continue their lifestyle, but near all the people and activities that make life enjoyable. If that sounds like you, living in a retirement community could be just the home you seek.

A retirement community is a far cry from a nursing home, its purpose build living for over 55’s who want to live in a luxury apartment, within a safe and vibrant community. It’s the best of both worlds, not only do you own your own home and have the freedom to come and go as you please, but you also have the option of getting involved with social events with like-minded individuals.

Holidays away from home

If you plan to spend your retirement visiting exciting new places or simply booking relaxing weeks by the beach, living with us at Burghley Retirement Living could be perfect for you.

If you know that you won’t be home 365 days of the year but are mindful of security, a retirement living apartment could be the perfect solution.

Each of our retirement living communities include:

· A House Manager who is on site 5 days per week

· A personal intruder alarm

· Buildings insurance

· Electricity, heating and lighting of the communal areas

· Maintenance and management of the building and its external areas

Meaning that you can enjoy travelling without stress and worry, knowing that your home is being looked after.

Volunteering and community activities

Age UK has reported that 1.4m older adults in the UK are ‘chronically lonely’ with some people not seeing anyone from one week to the next. Living in a vibrant retirement community will mean that if you choose to take an active role in the retirement community, you will be surrounded by new friends and enjoy community activities together.

If you have a particular hobby that you would like to share with others, you can volunteer to run your own club in the community lounge. Are you a fan of Richard Osman? You could even find your own Joyce, Ibrahim, Elizabeth and Ron and set up a Thursday Night Murder club, working as sleuths to solve unsolved mysteries.

If you are used to working 9 – 5, retirement can be a shock, so clubs and volunteering can help re-establish a daily routine and ensure that you are a useful member of your community.

Family visits

If you choose to live in one of our one or two bed apartments and don’t feel that you have enough space for guests to stay, we have got you covered!

We know that downsizing can feel daunting, especially if you’re used to having lots of people over for big occasions, however, living with us means that you still can (without having to clean up after them)!

Guest suites are available if you have people coming to stay. The suites are bookable through the House Manager for a small nightly charge and it means that you don’t have to worry about the stress of having loved ones come to stay, we take care of them for you and give them a warm welcome!

Each room has an en-suite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities, fresh towels and clean bedlinen.

If you would like to find out more about our retirement living communities and how your new apartment could fit around your lifestyle, head to our “how it works” to find out more about making your next move. https://burghleyretirement.co.uk/how-it-works/

As the cost of living rises, taking control of your retirement finances has never been more important.  For many retirees, that means making some big financial decisions such as to reduce their living costs by downsizing. Where to move to – is the big question of course. But when you know that Burghley Retirement Living in Derby can not only provide a safe, secure, friendly retirement living option it can also help you to achieve greater financial certainty, as we’ll pay your bills for three years, that decision may just be a little easier than you thought.

KEY BILLS PAID FOR THREE YEARS

Burghley Retirement Living brings you the opportunity to not only live a stress-free life in one of its luxury one or two bedroomed Derby retirement apartments, but we’ll also help as we pay your bills for three years. *

Yes, we will pay for your annual service charge, electricity, water, and council tax bills for three years. Giving you the chance to settle into your luxury retirement living apartment, embark on your new active and fulfilled lifestyle, and make new friendships with the wonderful people who already live in Burghley Retirement Living’s development at Albany Lodge, Derby.

And there’s more peace of mind and financial benefits to making the move to our Derby retirement living apartments.

ENERGY EFFICIENT RETIREMENT LIVING APARTMENTS

Albany Lodge in Derby has been designed exclusively for the over 55’s and features a collection of 10 one-bedroom and 54 two-bedroom luxury apartments. These have been thoughtfully designed specifically for mature lifestyles but are also energy efficient new apartment which leads to smaller bills.

• High standard of insulation providing an energy efficient building
• Showers rather than baths installed to reduce water wastage
• Double glazing to keep warmth in and bills low
• Energy efficient, heat-recovery, hot water cylinders
• ‘A’ rated water and electric efficient kitchen appliances

FINANCIAL BENEFITS TO RETIREMENT LIVING IN DERBY

Plus, after we have paid your bills for three years, you will be able to plan your finances effectively by knowing exactly what your annual service charge includes:

• Buildings insurance – so you never have to worry about large property maintenance bills again
• Landscaped garden maintenance – allowing you to enjoy the outdoor spaces without the cost or work
• On site support – a dedicated Lodge Manager is on hand to take care of the property; she also offers a morning check in call with you and will help to organise a range of social events
• Safety – camera entry and 24-hour emergency call system for added peace of mind
• Communal spaces – light, airy and welcoming communal lounges to socialise in with friends and neighbours, and communal activities room for crafts, games and classes
• Stay connected – with free Wi-Fi available in all communal spaces, and with two Hotel-Style Guest Suites, friends and family can come to stay

A move into Burghley Retirement Living will help to bring a new level of financial certainty, allowing you to live your retirement, your way.

BILLS REDUCE AS FRIENDSHIPS GROW

Living in our Derby retirement community also brings a host of new lifestyle opportunities, so as you reduce your bills, you will increase your social life.

With neighbours all around you, and a lively programme of social events designed to bring people together, you soon make new friendships.  Built close to the local amenities, you are also on the doorstep of community hobbies, activities, and social groups. And if you have a pet, we have lots of local walks and parks nearby and we welcome your four pawed friend to live at Albany Lodge with you.

VISIT US

Take a look for yourself at what retirement living can offer you. Visit one of our open days on 28-30 November, 5-7 December, or 12-14 December. We have flexible times, including evenings, to allow you to bring a family member or friend along with you.

To find out more about this offer, and arrange your tour, call Pamela on 07725 630907 or email info@burghleygroup.co.uk.

Albany Lodge, Bramble Drive, Derby, Derbyshire, DE22 3ZB

Click here to visit the page

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

*Includes payment of Burghley Retirement Living annual service charge, electricity, water, and council tax for three years from purchase completion to the value of up to £5,000 per year on a one-bedroom apartment and up to £7,500 per year for a two-bedroom apartment. Only available at Albany Lodge, Derby and not available in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. Purchase must be complete before July 31, 2024.

It’s natural to have a lot of questions about retirement.

When can I retire? What is retirement? When can I access my pension?

After all, you have been planning for retirement since your first day of work.

But when it comes to retirement living, for many lucky retirees, this is a brand new concept. The biggest question we get asked is: “Is Retirement Living right for me?”

It’s understandable that you may have some questions and some uncertainty about what retirement living is and whether it is the right option for you. At Burghley Retirement Living, we believe retirement is all about having the freedom to enjoy the things you love the most.

Our retirement living villages are exclusively for the over 55s and are designed with you in mind. Burghley luxury retirement apartments have maintenance included so you can free up your time and lead an independent lifestyle, plus we provide a safe and secure environment providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

What Is Retirement Living?

Our retirement villages are built especially for “people over 55” who wish to live independently in a safe and comfortable environment.

Location

When it comes to location, we know how important it is to find the right home in the right area. We have thoughtfully chosen excellent locations across our retirement living properties that give residents everything they need on their doorstep.

– Our Thornton-Cleveleys retirement living village is perfectly positioned by the famous Marsh Mill, which means that residents can nip out for a coffee in one of the many bustling cafes or enjoy a spot of shopping. Plus, the village is just a 15-minute walk from the seaside, perfect for strolls along the promenade and watching the waves; this retirement village really does have the best of both worlds.

– Our Derby retirement living village is nestled within the ready-made community of Kingsway in Derby. This charming development has the choice of one or two-bedroom apartments set within extensive landscaped grounds. The location is perfect for city life, in ten-minutes you can drive into Derby city centre with its huge range of high street stores, culture and restaurants.

If you prefer to stay at home, our retirement villages promote a luxury lifestyle, offering the opportunity to enjoy onsite social activities within a community of people of a similar age.

Enjoyment and security.

We believe retirement is about having the time and freedom to enjoy the things you love the most. All of our developments are designed exclusively for the over 55s. Your home gives you privacy when you want it, but a communal resident lounge opens up a whole new social life with like-minded neighbours when you wish.

Living in our retirement apartments means that you can say goodbye to maintenance. The communal upkeep (including the gardens and guttering) is taken care of as part of your service charge. We believe life is to enjoy and when everything is taken by us, you can forget about all those irritating, time-consuming jobs when you move in.

Our team will always be on hand as safety and security of paramount importance to us, plus during the week your House Manager will be around every day from 9am – 5pm if you have any questions or concerns.

Find out more about our retirement living community by giving us a call on 0800 999 1989.

This November, Derby is bustling with activities to help get you into the winter spirit! There is truly something for everyone, from big events like Bonfire Night and Lights Switch to smaller more intimate events such as wreath making!

Bonfire night

On the 4th November, Derby’s biggest Fireworks Night is back! This event has all of the classic Bonfire Night food, plus, what promises to be the biggest and best display ever, complete with a brand-new laser show! Plus, it’s only an 15 minute drive away from Albany Lodge, Kingsway.

The Derby Christmas light Switch on

Derby is the perfect city to get into the Christmas spirit! Why not ask your friends from your retirement living village to wrap up warm and head to the city centre on the 12th of November. Once there, the festivities begin at 3.30pm you will enjoy a variety of entertainment on the stage leading up to the big switch-on at 6pm to get you in the Festive spirit.

https://www.visitderby.co.uk/whats-on/festive-derby/christmas-lights-switch-on

Let’s make Christmas

If you love crafts, Derby Museum, the Art Gallery and the Museum of Making are featuring beautiful handmade gifts from local makers in their shops, including prints, ceramics, jewellery and textiles.

“Let’s make Christmas” is a seasonal celebration of contemporary making. This event is throughout November and will feature handcrafted pieces from over 50 local makers.

https://www.derbymuseums.org/event/lets-make-christmas-2022

Christmas at Chatsworth

Just an hour away from your retirement living apartment is, Chatsworth house, this fantastic day out is especially magical at Christmas. This November, step inside Chatsworth House and be magically transported to the mystical frozen realms of the far north.

At dusk, experience the ‘northern lights’ over the Canal Pond and let magical colour guide you along the Broad Walk into a glade of glowing lights, plus there will even be a historic Maze lit with wands of light and filled with festive music.

https://www.chatsworth.org/events/christmas/

Wreath Making Workshop

If you want to adorn the door of your retirement living apartment with a festive wreath, why not make one yourself?

Head to Kedleston Country House on the 28th, 29th, 30th November or 1st December land join a wreath making workshop!

Get creative and make your own Christmas door wreath. With expert guidance, an abundance of foliage and decorations included in the price, all you need to do is relax, be merry, enjoy a glass of mulled wine and mince pies whilst making your own festive decoration.

Derby has so much to offer this November and attending these events will make you feel not only at home in your retirement living apartment but also in the wider city of Derby. After working all your

life, you deserve to dedicate your time to going out and enjoying yourself whilst living at Albany Lodge Retirement village.

A lot of thought goes into the design of our retirement living apartments, to ensure that they offer everything you need for an enjoyable and comfortable home. Each retirement apartment is built to last and finished to a high standard, with quality fixtures and fittings and thoughtful design touches.

We ensure that we are on the pulse with design trends which means that our over 55s living developments are of a high standard and provide a welcoming and contemporary home for you to enjoy later life.

Here are a few of the interior design trends that are inspiring us this autumn.

70’s style

A key trend is the slow and laidback styling of the 70’s. The use of natural materials teamed with earthy tones is making a comeback this autumn.

Style your retirement living apartment with these 70’s touches such as animal prints, furry shag pile rugs, velvet furnishings and handcrafted ceramics. Or simply nod to the trend with a houseplant or two.

Lots of texture

Textures help your home look cosy and comfortable. This autumn a combination of rattan, velvet, natural pine and antique rugs are all the rage with interior designers. You can transform the look of your retirement living apartment with layered rugs and textured wall hangings.

Let the light in

This autumn, warm neutrals are back in trend. You can paint your neutral retirement living apartment in light browns and soft oranges, these will be bright during the day and warm during the evening. If you fancy a pop of colour, bright cushions and fun mirrors will compliment this trend.

Nature

Filling your home with plants and flowers will never go out of fashion. House plants not only look fantastic but they have benefits ranging from improving your mood and reducing stress levels to reducing breathing problems.

Patterns

According to the research, we will be welcoming an injection of print and pattern into the home after a summer of minimalism. The resurgence of bold patterns will add fun and vibrance to your retirement living apartment. You can pair a geometric wallpaper or a striped rug with neutral walls to embrace the trend.

Our retirement living apartments in Thornton-Cleveleys and Derby will be ready to move into this autumn. To book a show flat viewing call us on 0800 999 1989 to speak with Pamela and find out more.

As the weather starts to turn, you will soon discover that the Fylde coast is more than just endless golden beaches and picturesque views. There is a lot more to explore, from events to local attractions, everything we have listed below is less than 30 minutes away from your luxury retirement flat at Royles Lodge.

Retail Therapy

Just a 30-minute bus ride away from Royles Lodge retirement living is a shopping destination you won’t want to miss if you’re planning to get some new cosy winter outfits – Affinity Outlet Shopping. It’s the perfect place for those looking to find a bargain. From Pavers to Craghoppers, Regatta to Next, there is a store for everyone.

https://affinitylancashire.com

ACU British Sand Racing Championship

On the 2nd of October, the British Sand Racing Championship will take place on St Annes Beach. This afternoon of racing will see motorbikes, sidecars and quad bikes compete against one another to be the British champion. This adrenaline-filled event is just a half an hour drive away from your over 55s apartment and is sure to be a Sunday of jam-packed fun.

https://www.visitfyldecoast.info/event/fylde-acu-british-sand-masters-2022/2022-09-17/

Visit a tearoom

There is nothing better than discovering a new place to enjoy a brew with friends. Why not take some of your new pals from your retirement living village to one of the top-rated cafes near Royles Lodge? Tiffins Tea Room is a stones through away in Marsh Mill Village and has a variety of homemade cakes to enjoy. Or you could pop into the fabulous Linden Tea Room if you fancy trying the ever-changing soup of the day.

A Tribute to the Armed Forces – “We Will Meet Again” – Stage show

On the 13th of November enjoy a celebration of wartime entertainment in Lytham St Annes.  The 1940s variety show is a light-hearted, yet respectful look at wartime entertainment. Your host is renowned 40’s vocalist Mervyn Francis, who will be joined by a comedy multi-instrumentalist, a ukulele player and of course your very own forces sweetheart.

https://www.discoverfylde.co.uk/events/a-tribute-to-the-armed-forces-well-meet-again/

Fleetwood Music and Arts Festival 2022

When you live in your retirement apartment, there will be a vibrant community around you, but if you’re naturally outgoing, why not take your chance to be part of the wider town? Get involved with the arts scene and put a date in your diary for the Fleetwood Music and Arts Festival. This annual celebration of the Arts takes place on the 19th November and involves fun competitions for amateur actors, instrumentalists and singers.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fleetwood-music-arts-festival-2022-join-us-for-our-in-person-event-tickets-215778247547?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Why wait to live in such a convenient and friendly place? Book an appointment to find your perfect apartment in Thornton-Cleveleys today.

Reading is a wonderful hobby that keeps the mind active. Reading at any age has many benefits that include reducing stress, enhancing sleep, improving memory, sharpening decision-making skills, and delaying the development of diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

International literacy day is on the 8th of September every year and this year we have pulled together a list of must-read books that you can get stuck into this Autumn in your brand new retirement living apartment.

Thursday Night Murder Club by Richard Osman

A light-hearted and cosy mystery focused on four friends living in a retirement village who get together on Thursdays to investigate and solve cold cases. The sleuths finally find themselves in the centre of an active case, when a builder who works in their retirement village is murdered. The book is jaunty and in places, laugh-out-loud funny.

My Mess is a Bit of a Life by Georgia Pritchett

Pritchett speaks openly and honestly about the ups and downs of living with anxiety, through wonderfully funny and occasionally heartbreaking stories that stay with you well after reading. This is a book that feels very relatable for anyone living with anxiety.

Rings of Saturn by WG Sebald

 The novel records a walking tour along the Suffolk coast. The book wanders through a few of the things which cross the path and mind of its narrator (who both is and is not Sebald) simultaneously inhabiting the present and the past, landscape and memory.

Breathtaking by Rachel Clarke

Clarke is a palliative care doctor who during the Covid-19 pandemic looked after some of the sickest patients in the ward of her hospital. She writes a powerful, emotional account filled with fear, love and the very best of humanity.

The Bad Dog’s Diary: A Year in the Life of Blake: Lover… Fighter… Dog by Martin Howard

 Blake is a loveable dog just trying to lead a happy life; he loves his owner, fiercely defends his territory, does his best to avoid the frequently threatened neutering and spends a lot of his time either scooting across the carpet or trying to find a girlfriend. This book is the diary of Blake the mongrel.

We have pulled out a few classics and have taken a look at some recent publications that speak of truth, anxiety and reality. This list has something that will appeal to everyone, so if you are in the mood for a cosy read in your over 55s flat we recommend trying out “The Bad Dogs Diary” or “The Thursday Night Murder Club”. However, if you fancy a challenging and lively debate at your retirement community book club, get stuck into the “Rings of Saturn”.

If you fancy curling up with a good book in a brand new home, our luxury retirement living apartments in Derby and Thornton-Cleveleys will be ready to move into this autumn, for more information please contact Pamela on 0800 999 1989.

Retirement is the perfect opportunity to take stock and find a new direction, it is also a time when many retirees leap at the chance to free themselves from the burden of maintaining a large family home.

Downsizing, after all, does make a lot of sense, especially if you don’t want the expense of heating empty bedrooms or the stress of maintaining a large garden. According to Age Mobility, 64 is the perfect age to downsize as it means that you can benefit most from getting rid of unused space and free up cash that allows you to live a dream retirement without financial strain.

We understand that it can be difficult to separate yourself from items that hold precious memories which is why, if you are moving from a large family home into an independent senior living community we recommend that you start the process of decluttering as soon as possible and importantly, pace yourself!

1. Focus on one room at a time

To ensure that you don’t feel overwhelmed we recommend that you start the downsizing process as soon as possible and go through each room individually, giving yourself the time and headspace that you need to sort through your house. If you split your decluttering into “sections” and go room by room and start this process at least 3 months before you plan to move home it’ll be far less stressful on moving day as you will already have everything organised.

Before you downsize and move into a luxury over 55’s property, it’s essential that you set yourself clear boundaries and know how much space your new apartment will have and what you intend to take with you to your new home. It’s essential that you have a clear room-by-room picture of what you’ll be taking with you to your new home and what you intend to get rid of.

If you’ve lived in your current home for a long time, it’s likely that you will have accumulated a large amount of furniture, household items and personal possessions. To effectively downsize, letting go of personal attachments is key.

There are a lot of techniques to help you let go of items that you no longer use or need and end up with possessions that you actually need:

Some popular methods include:

• One-A-Day Method: This sounds a little extreme, but once you start, it’s easy to get into. You simply let go of one item per day, or if you are short on time, you give away the same amount of items as the day of the month, for example, if it’s the 14th of September, you give away 14 items.
• The Marie Kondo Method: Popularised by the Netflix series “Tidying Up”, this method takes on clutter by category (clothes, books and sentimental items). If an item no longer “sparks joy” then it’s time to get rid of it.
• Four-Box Method: Take an item and only give yourself four options. Typically, these options are: keep, donate, recycle and sell

2. Consider your new Lifestyle 

Once you’ve decided what to keep and what to leave behind, have a final sweep of your possessions with your new lifestyle in mind.

If you’re heading to one of our luxury retirement apartments in Thornton-Cleveleys for example, you’ll be surrounded by renowned golf courses and miles of golden sand, so keeping your clubs and bucket and spade for the grandchildren will be essential. However, if you’re heading to our retirement community in Derby, you will only be 30 minutes from East Midlands airport, so keeping your cossie and a sun hat is a must!

3. Plan Decorative Touches

 Downsizing to move into a retirement flat should feel like a positive experience. Use the time before you move to get excited and plan the layout and decor in your new flat.

Think about your colour scheme – will it be punchy and bright or neutral and muted? Will you have a featured piece of furniture or object? Planning the look and feel of your new space not only gets you excited about making the move to your new home but helps you choose and keep the right decorative objects for your new retirement flat.

Remember, if you choose to move into one of our retirement living apartments, we leave the finishing touches to you. Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with you in mind and includes storage areas to help you make the most of your space, but when it comes to putting a personal stamp on the place – we leave that entirely up to you.

Do you find the sea air irresistible and look forward to trips to the Fylde Coast every summer? 18 million of us do and for good reason! This quaint seaside destination has plenty of great choices of places to stay from full-service hotels, to welcoming country inns and cosy holiday cottages as well as friendly caravan parks and glamping sites for those who enjoy the great outdoors.

With a great mixture of beaches, quaint seaside towns and sprawling countryside, it’s little wonder why this coastline was the destination of choice for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert when they visited in the summer of 1874.

If you enjoy holidays on the Fylde coast, why not look beyond just staying in a cosy B&B and tucking into ice creams for two weeks in the summer and instead, think about living in Thornton Cleveleys full time?

What makes Thornton-Cleveleys the perfect home?

It’s flat!

You can walk in any direction, without ending up out of breath because this terrific seaside town isn’t plagued with hills! This smooth and level town is ideal for anyone and accessible to all, making it the idea place to retire too if you plan on enjoying a quieter pace of life.

The easy terrain is also fantastic for bike rides. You can cycle to the Ribble Estuary at Lytham or to Fleetwood in Wyre using the scenic coastal path. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, at Wyre you can hop on the ferry to Knott End and carry on your exploits.

The glorious promenade

This award-winning promenade has been recently renovated in a sea defence project and includes steps leading down to the beach for easy access. The promenade doesn’t just boast fabulous views, it is also clean, attractive and has plenty of built-in seating which is perfect for those all-important ice cream pit stops.

Shopping

If you are a fan of retail therapy, there are some excellent shops along Cleveleys bustling high street, with well known stores and independent shops side by side.

From well-loved local brands such as “Elegant Clothing” (a ladies boutique) to popular big-name shops such as M&Co, Bonmarche and Home Bargains; Cleveleys high street has something for everyone.

It’s easy to get around

 When moving to an area, it’s important to have great transport options. The town has a well-connected bus and tram network and handily has a plethora of buses running across town and further afield starting at the bus station which is located next to the main shopping street.

The trams are frequent and the main stops run along the promenade, which is a beautiful route to take at sunset.

The people are really nice

No, it’s not just a holiday glow, people are nice all year around! There is a strong sense of community spirit in Thornton Cleveleys with groups and events galore! There are clubs for everything you can think of, from gardening to music! If you’re not one for organised activities and just fancy a night out, there is great evening entertainment in Marine Hall and Thornton Little Theatre and of course, lots of trendy new cocktail bars popping up along the coastline.

The local area

With its neat hedgerows, golf courses and upmarket restaurants, the elegant Lytham St Annes has all the trappings of a wealthy Cheshire town. If you’re a golf fan, this town is just half an hour away from Thornton Cleveleys and is home to 4 golf clubs including, the “Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club” which one of the premier links courses in the World.

Just 15 minutes away from the heart of Thonton-Cleveleys is trendy Blackpool. Famed for its nightlife, with theatres and entertainment galore! From the notorious Grand Theatre, to the renowned Winter Gardens and of course the Opera House, Blackpool provides ample opportunity to enjoy musicals, plays, operas, pantomimes, stand-up comedy and concerts!

The Lakes are only an hour away from Thornton-Cleveleys, the area is well known for its fantastic trails and mountains and offers everything from short walks that are perfect for beginners to more demanding trails that are ideal for those seeking a challenge.

Royles Lodge is in the heart of Thornton-Cleveleys, near the famous Marsh Mill. This luxury retirement village could be your new home if you choose to extend your seaside holiday… permanently! Find out more about our retirement living community by giving us a call on 0800 999 1989.

The school summer holidays are a precious time when grandparents get to spend lots of time with their grandchildren. Come rain or shine, we have pulled together some top tips to keep the little ones entertained over the long summer holidays.

Long hot summer days

We’ve rounded up some of the best ways for both kids… and big kids to have sun in the hot weather.

Gardening

For a lot of gardeners, we hold dear memories of grandparents teaching us how to grow plants, how to care for the soil, and sharing their own tips and tricks. Why not spend the summer showing your own grandchildren the ropes?

Start simple with seeds and cress on the windowsill (this also works as a rainy day activity).

One of the greatest shared gardening activities is growing a plant in a pot, nurturing it, watering and feeding it, and simply watching it grow. The great thing about this interest is that it can be done both inside and outside and over a number of weeks/months/years.

Visit National Trust properties

Ah the great outdoors! Sweeping national trust gardens are perfect for walks and picnics on hot summer days.

Why not explore the great outdoors, even the rainy days can be enjoyed in the woods for a nature walk.

The park

The park is always a hit! But best of all, not only is it fun, it’s free! You can enjoy everything from feeding the ducks to playing on the swings. Now that’s what we call a day out!4. The beach

The seaside

Sun, sea, sandcastles and swimming. What’s not to enjoy about a day out by the glorious British coast? You can make many happy memories by the seaside, Skegness is just 2hours away from Derby’s Albany Lodge or if you chose to live in Royles Lodge at Thornton Cleveleys, you’ll be right on the coast!

Wet weather fun

We all know that a British summer can bring a lot of spells of rain. We have prepared some activities that are fun in every weather.

Read a book

From fairy tales to non-fiction, there is something for everyone. Why not start a new book with your grandchildren or dig out an old favourite this summer?

Settle down and watch a good film

This is something the whole family can enjoy. It’s a perfect rainy day activity to snuggle up on the sofa with some tasty popcorn.

The ultimate gloomy day activity. We recommend:

• Monopoly
• Ludo
• Scrabble
• Buckeroo
• Snakes and ladders
• Frustration

Whatever you get up to this summer break, why not stop by one of our luxury retirement living villages? Both Albany Lodge in Kingsway, Derby and Royles Lodge in Thornton Cleveleys are ready to reserve now. Plus, you could move in as soon as this autumn, find out more by speaking to our friendly team: info@burghleygroup.co.uk

By Maggie Wilkinson

Do you sometimes long to have a go at drawing and painting, but find the sight of a blank, white page daunting – with negative thoughts of not wanting to make a mess? Sometimes, we need to make a start in a small, gentle, and easy way, to get our creativity flowing again and to restore our confidence. Think back to when you were a child; do you remember those cold, wet playtimes when you couldn’t go out, and how cosy and enjoyable it felt to be cosseted up indoors in the warm and colouring in?

Colouring is now a really popular hobby, with fabulous books designed especially for the adult market. Grown-ups are finding immense pleasure in this relaxing craft: the contemplative peace of sitting at the table at your retirement village living and setting out the supplies; then, the simple comfort of laying down the colours, bringing the picture to life with your own handiwork. What a delightful way to spend an afternoon, perhaps with your grandchild or craft group, working on your pages together, side by side.

Before you take the plunge and buy expensive books, why not click on the links below and print yourself off a selection of free images that appeal to you?

Supplies you can use:

• Pencil crayons – these are a great medium to start with, and they vary enormously in price and quality. All the “colourists” have their favourites, and the serious devotees often have several sets. Pencil crayons are more forgiving and subtle than felt pens, with less chance of bleeding through and spoiling the drawing on the other side of the page. The Staedtler 157 SB24 Ergosoft Triangular Colouring Pencils are good, and come highly recommended by the creator of one of the loveliest series of colouring books, Johanna Basford. These are brilliant, relatively cheap, and a perfect place to start. The colours lay down very softly and are easy to layer and blend. Always lay a sheet of clean white paper under the page you’re working on, to prevent marking the underneath design.

Pencil Crayons

• Fineliners  – These are very posh felt-tip pens, brilliant for complimenting, enhancing, and highlighting your pencil work. The tips really are very fine and work well for tiny shapes, adding decorative dots, lines, and flourishes.

Fineliners

• Colouring Books – Johanna Basford has designed and produced a series of beautifully drawn colouring books. She has even drawn a very sweet and free colouring book, which you can download and print as a pdf—see the links below. Johanna offers inspiring, free online tutorials, and there’s a very friendly Facebook community who generously share their work, tips, recommendations, and ideas.

Free colouring downloads

Johanna’s Free Book, “Flourish”

Another way you can ease yourself into creating with colour is to start a journal— a small book to fill with doodles and sketches, inspired from little things you see around you whilst at your retirement community near the sea or out and about, or your thoughts. It’s fun to collect ephemera from places you visit and stick them in, embellishing by hand.

It’s truly rewarding to give yourself the time to be creative, and everyone is creative - we just forget to use it! So, why not check out these links and inspire yourself?

When choosing to live at Royles Lodge you will have a vast number of beaches and seaside experiences at your disposal all of which are practically on your doorstep! Leaving by the coast means that there are plenty of opportunities to take the grandchildren out for the day and enjoy the summer sun. From Blackpool Pier to hidden beaches on the Fylde coast, there’s something for every occasion! 

Blackpool with the Grandchildren 

Thornton Cleveleys is an idyllic location for those who crave the sea air, there are so many seaside locations to choose to visit and we know that you’ll be spoilt for choice!  

If you have the day with the grandchildren we recommend that you take them to Blackpool for the day as it’s only a 20-minute bus ride away from the retirement community living. Blackpool has arcades, rides and a beach, so there is plenty to keep the kids entertained before heading back to your retirement apartment and watching them fall asleep happily on the sofa. Pleasure Beach theme park on the pier has so much to offer with small to giant roller coasters so there is a thrill factor for everyone to enjoy. If that’s not your family’s kind of thing there’s also a huge choice of fish and chip shops to choose lunch from and you could always just get a bucket and spade for the grandkids to pass the time whilst you relax reading a book next to them.  

Ferry To Knott End  

If you want to spend some quality time with your new neighbours and are looking for a quiet seaside day out then we would recommend visiting the Fleetwood Esplanade and catching the ferry from Ferry Beach over to Knott End (which is just over the other side of the River Wyre). Knott End is a quiet area where you can take leisurely walks and look out for local wildlife on the north-western coast! This would be a great place to get away from it all and have a peaceful afternoon just soaking up your surroundings.  

Beach Cleaning  

If you are looking to do some volunteering why not get involved in a beach clean, it’s a brilliant way to meet new people and get involved in the wider community. There are monthly beach clean-ups along Cleveleys beach, including one run by the beach-clean and brew society. After a long morning of cleaning, the group gets a coffee at The Venue Cafe across the street, meaning it’s even easier to make friends and chat! If you feel nervous about going alone why not ask a neighbour from your over 55s community at Royles Lodge to join you? It’s a very rewarding feeling and being a part of a group aiming for the same result will give you extra motivation you need to clean up the beautiful beaches of the northwest!  

Trip to the Park  

Anchorsholme Park is an idyllic location to take your four-legged friends on a walk- being just a 3-minute walk from Royles Lodge. The park is very open and vast and boasts views across the water giving. Your furry friend will love a wander around on a warm summer’s evening and you don’t have to go far to take them to what we’re sure will be their new favourite park!  

There is always something to do around the Thornton-Cleveleys area but it is just made even better in the summer sun. Royles Lodge becomes like your own slice of paradise once the sun comes out. This is the perfect retirement location as the area is packed with beautiful beaches on your doorstep and the opportunity to make wonderful memories. Your retirement living community will be there for you all year round, but whilst the weather is nice make use of it to get out and explore. This is the way retirement living is supposed to be done.  

Wimbledon is coming up and there are a few things you might find surprising about the legendary competition!

This is a perfect opportunity to arrange a get together with your friends and family and entertain them in your luxury retirement living apartment.

We have pulled together some fun facts form the foundations the great tournament’s traditions.  

Playing with your palm? 

According to tennis legend the game used to be played using the palm of the hand instead of rackets. Up until the 16th century these were the rules of the game, but we’re sure every modern player is happy about the introduction of rackets! Without them the record for fastest serve would have never been recorded. John Isner holds the ATP’s official record for the fastest serve at 253 km/h or 157.2 mph hit during the 2016 Davis Cup. 

What a lot of Balls  

Throughout the Wimbledon tournament around 54,000 balls are used with every 7 to 9 balls being inspected and replaced. When the balls aren’t in use, they are stored in a refrigerated container to keep them absolutely spotless! 

All in white 

As we all know the Wimbledon players have always played in white, but the tradition runs so deep that it is actually written into the rules of competition for every player to be in all white (including underwear!). Andre Agassi, known for his outlandish and colourful outfits (and jean shorts), refused to adhere to these rules and thus didn’t play at Wimbledon until he turned 21. Luckily watching the games from the comfort of your luxury retirement living you will get to decide your own dress code.  

Keeping a Beady Eye out  

There is an integral member of the security in the two weeks of Wimbledon, Rufus the Hawk is the security on hand to scare away the pigeons away from the courts. Rufus keeps a watchful eye on intruding mess making pigeons so the grounds remain pristine. We all know how pesky pigeons can be and it’s important that there is no mess at the legendary tournament of Wimbledon.  

Great British Treats 

It wouldn’t be Wimbledon without all of the treats that come with the big event over the two weeks. Whether you fancy a jug of Pimm’s or some strawberries and cream, it’s the best time to treat yourself. With the sun (hopefully) beaming down and a refreshing cool drink of Pimm’s with cucumber and oranges we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a lovely day at Burghley Retirement Living. Bringing the retirement community together over the summer will be a great way to get to know your neighbours and have fun celebrating everything that is great about this British tennis institution! 

When you move into Royles Lodge in the seaside town of Thornton-Cleveleys you may be thinking of ways to make your brand-new apartment feel homely. We have pulled together some brilliant interior design ideas to make your fully integrated apartment feel like home from the moment that you arrive.

Storage: Each apartment comes with fitted wardrobes and a fully integrated kitchen as standard, which is extremely handy when moving in and means you have plenty of space for storage and this design maximises floor space for you to put your own spin on the retirement living apartment.

Upcycling: This is a very popular trend that is not only fun but, if you’re environmentally aware, it’s a great way to be eco-friendly. So, grab a paintbrush and give old bits of furniture a new lease of life and create something which is authentically yours.

As wardrobes are already integrated into your apartment, we would suggest upcycling a nightstand or a coffee table. Second-hand tables can be found on most marketplace websites and usually under £100. Depending on the piece you might need to simply sand away the rough edges and re-varnish the wood, or it might need an entire makeover, so why not grab a colour of your choice and make it your own? Doing this on a couple of pieces of wooden furniture can really set your apartment apart and make your home unique.

Displays: Gone are the days of displaying plates and vases, but displays can still be very on trend if you know what to display and where. For example, if you are a gin connoisseur your new over 55’s apartment could be the perfect place to display the beautiful bottles. Similar to Del Boy’s globe drinks bar (but far more classy), mini home bars are coming back in fashion. There is a wide variety of bar trolleys available at the moment and they can give your apartment a unique feel.

Drinks trolleys are not just stylish but practical too, you can place your bottles and glasses on it and put it in the open plan living space, which is perfect if you are entertaining guests. Another stylish hack is to gather some empty red wine bottles and put candlesticks in the top of them to create your very own holders, once again this is a sustainable display and that will always look great. When you entertain guests, they will be thrilled that they have the opportunity to use your own private bar!

Personal touches: When looking for retirement flats for sale in Thornton-Cleveleys you will see that all of our properties at Royles Lodge are all fully fitted with amenities, including an en-suite in the bedroom. Our modest and minimalist approach to styling means you can add exactly want to your retirement apartment make it a home. Hang personal photographs and pictures throughout your apartment to add a touch of colour and remind you of fond memories. If you want to keep your home looking minimal and sleek, we recommend using mounting tape to hang your pictures, so that they are snug to the wall’s, it is quick, easy and completely mess-free!

Jazzy flooring: Layered rugs are all the rage at the moment! Now, we know that the humble rug has always been a staple in any home, but these days you can get a rug any size with just about any pattern or picture on it so you will easily find several rug options that which will suit your aesthetic and make your retirement living apartment feel even more comfortable and cosy.

Having all of the essentials already fitted into your brand-new retirement home means that there is no need to worry about the overall layout or styling. Instead you can focus on personalisation and the little touches that will make your over 55’s apartment a peaceful haven.

It is Jubilee year! We are looking forward to this summer when communities come together to celebrate the longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. What better way to get to know your retirement living community than bringing everyone together for such a memorable event! We have some tips and ideas on how to make the celebrations one you won’t forget!  

Jubilee Cakes  

Tea is an obvious choice when it comes to celebrating everything that is great about Great Britain, but nothing goes better with a nice cuppa than a good bit of cake! Put your baking skills to the test and wow your new neighbours with some excellent decorative tips. We suggest finding a classic Victoria Sponge recipe and getting creative when it comes to icing – we recommend the BBC Good Food website for this!  

Thanks to your fully integrated kitchen in your luxury retirement apartment, you will have all the amenities to practice for a perfect Jubilee cake. Decorating the cake using some white buttercream icing will create a solid layer to create a Union Jack flag using blueberries and raspberries. This is a simple but really effective way of making a delicious treat for the day!  

 Bunting  

It wouldn’t be a Jubilee without bringing out the bunting, and decorating your home with some will really brighten up your over 55s apartment ready for the big day! Making your own bunting can be a fun thing to do with neighbours in preparation for the event especially if you and your friends have organised at the retirement community party. Popping down to your local haberdashery you’ll find all the things you need to make your own bunting. Decorate them with red white and blue to really show your patriotism and celebrate the queen’s life in a new community.  

 The ‘Street’ Party 

Getting the retirement community together for the big day will make the event special and will remind you of Jubilee celebrations of the past and help you make new memories and friends within the community. The outside communal areas would be the perfect place to set up some tables and have to opportunity to bond and make friends! Getting all the colours of the Union Jack for table decorations will really show off your love of Queen and Country – nothing is too over the top!  

Burghley Retirement Living is all about making friends and celebrating big events like the Jubilee whilst feeling a part of a community. Moving to a new area can sometimes be daunting but communal events and getting creative, be it baking or making bunting with a neighbour you should feel more comfortable in your new retirement living community. 

Before moving to Albany Lodge, you may feel worried about being lonely or not finding the right social clubs to fit into however, we have some great suggestions of community clubs nearby which will keep you active both mentally and physically.

Building a community around you and is a key part of feeling at home wherever you live, and we have some great suggestions of groups you can join, from staying fit and active to discovering a new found academic subject.

 U3A 

The University for the Third Age is a nationwide organisation which has a range of locally run interest groups, Derby is home to a huge range of different groups from learning about local history to learning to play the Ukelele! Joining a U3A group will allow you to become a part of a community with people who have the same interests as you, and have fun learning something new. It might even be the motivation you need to finally get round to starting that thing you’ve always want to learn but just never had the time to! With a number of meeting centres across Derby you won’t have to go far from your lifestyle village to attend your meetings and classes. To find out more on groups and about joining U3A click the link below, because you might just find a new passion and make friends along the way! 

https://u3asites.org.uk/derby/page/45535 

 Golf Courses and Clubs  

If you are a fan of golf and enjoy playing with your friends, Derby has a couple of great golf courses and clubs to choose from. Choosing retirement living in Derby comes with the benefit of the picturesque setting of the Derbyshire countryside. Taking up golf will mean that you are able soak it all up with a few friends and neighbours from the Albany Lodge retirement living community – making golfing a great way to spend a sunny afternoon and enjoy the company of others!  

We like to play a round at “The Derby Golf Club” as it has a range of facilities including a club lounge to enjoy a cool beverage after a few holes with your Derby retirement living neighbours. For joining information about the multiple golf courses across Derby click the link below.  

http://www.derbygolfclub.co.uk 

 History Societies  

Derby has heaps of history to uncover and investigate, plus if you want to meet likeminded history buffs, the city has some fantastic societies and groups who meet fortnightly to discuss the Derby’s rich history. Even if you are not from Derby, learning about its history might make you feel more at home, as stories from the past are shared, you might find a particular interest in a part of the history of Derby. The Derbyshire Historical Society covers everything from family history to architectural history. So whatever interests you joining a history club would be a good way to get to know the area around your new home and when you have visitors to stay, you will be able to impress them with facts you have learnt! 

Keeping Active 

For those who are passionate about staying in shape and enjoy exercise, Derby City Council run sports groups for all ages and abilities, so even if you struggle to move as fast as you once could, there is a club for you! Walking football takes the classic sport and slows it down a notch so everyone can keep up. Keeping active in later life is important and can be much more fun when done in a welcoming group, so if you were in a sports team as a youngster or if you just love the game, there is no reason not to keep up what you love in your retirement. 

 Gardening Groups  

Gardening can be an activity people do to keep calm and immerse yourself in nature, it is also extremely satisfying to see your hard work (of looking after your plants) flourish and become something beautiful. The Chellaston In Bloom group is just one example of a great local gardening club you might want to join, or if you are looking for a challenge, the Royal Horticulture Society is a brilliant group to join if you are already green fingered and handy in the garden. They work in collaboration with smaller groups like Chellaston in Bloom around the country and becoming a member allows you to have access to all of their gardens and the monthly newsletter which might give you ideas to bring to your gardening group.  

Derby has so much to offer and becoming part of a group, club or society will make you feel not only at home in your retirement living apartment but also in the city of Derby. Making friends with likeminded people who enjoy the same things as you is really important when settling in a new place. After working all your life, you deserve to dedicate your time to doing the activities you love most with the chance find new passions whilst living at Albany Lodge.  

Royles Lodge luxury retirement village is in Thornton-Cleveleys, which might be a place you’re not familiar with yet. We can assure you that with a little guidance from us and your new neighbours in the community, you will be gleefully exploring what the area has to offer in no time.   

Royles Lodge has been designed and built to feel not just like home but something much bigger, a thriving retirement community where there will be plenty of activities and socialising opportunities on the grounds and in the cafe. However, an even bigger community lies just outside our retirement apartments in Thornton-Cleveleys and there is so much to explore, including the beautiful scenery of the Fylde Coast, and the famous Marsh Mill..  

An important part of our ethos at Burghley Retirement living is to build homes in locations that give our residents options to enjoy the retirement they have earned the way they see fit.  

When we found the Royles Lodge location in Thornton-Cleveleys, we knew it was a hidden gem and we can’t wait to show you the area. Our central location ensures that there are lots of great activities on the doorstep of your Royles Lodge apartment that are all accessible by foot in under 10 minutes.  

Marsh Mill 

Just next door is the Marsh Mill which has a range of cafes, boutiques and a carvery pub! The best part is, it’s only two minutes on foot away from the luxury retirement village. You might find some gifts for a grandchild’s birthday or maybe even a nice spot to enjoy a coffee with a new neighbour. Because it is right by the retirement complex, it will soon become a familiar place for you to spend the afternoon and relax with a friend.  

If you have a pet, Marsh Mill has a beautiful windmill and park area to take the dog for a quick stroll. It has it all, it’s big enough that if you are taking care of the grandchildren at the weekend it’s big enough to go for a look around, and small enough that you can quickly pop in  for some groceries for dinner.  

On a Sunday after a long morning walk along the coast, you might find yourself craving a carvery, look no further than the Marsh Mill Tavern! They serve 5-star carveries every Sunday, and because they are  just a moment away from home, once you are full you can wander back to your luxury apartment and relax for the rest of the evening.  

Having this convenient picturesque village on your doorstep will give you the chance to have another place aside from your independent living apartment to relax and socialise with your new neighbours.  

Fylde Coast 

The Fylde Coast is home to some of Northern England’s nicest beaches and having one right on your doorstep might sound too good to be true! The closest beach to Royles Lodge is just 5 minutes so whatever the weather, the beach is just waiting for you to enjoy.  

Each month the council organise litter picking days, this is a brilliant way to help out in the community, not only the Royles Lodge community, but that of the whole town! Doing some volunteering like this will feel extremely rewarding and is a great way to make friends outside of your luxury retirement village!  

So why wait to live in such a convenient and friendly place? Book an appointment to find your perfect apartment today. 

Picture this: You and your partner spend a bright Sunday morning tending to your garden, planting flower bulbs and picking out a few pesky weeds. After that, you take a seat on your bench soaking up the spring sun, reading the newspaper with a hot drink. Admiring your luxury retirement village, you sit back and look around at what you have achieved and earnt, and it’s not long until your guests arrive for the meal of the week- your famous roast dinner. This roast has been the talk of the Albany Lodge senior retirement community and everyone wants an invite.  

 It’s almost time to put the meat in the oven so you head into your fully integrated kitchen to get started. The large kitchen space means that there is plenty of room for two of you to get preparing the best meal of the week, so whilst one of you peels the potatoes the other can start chopping the veg. If you would rather take on the prep solo then you won’t be short of feeling like a chef in your beautifully equipped kitchen. Each kitchen in our  independent living community apartments have all of the mod cons you would expect so not only do you now have the perfect space to entertain guests in your private indoor and outdoor space you also have everything you need in order to cook for those you love most. 

 When you move into Albany Lodge, Derby we will take care of everything including integrating all the mod-cons you might need to entertain guests allowing you to cook up a storm. Each kitchen in our retirement living village is fully integrated and has a modern feel to it but with enough space and light to ensure that you can bring in your own touches. The layout of the Albany Lodge kitchens should help recall memories of kitchens of the past, provide space to dance whilst cooking, and inspire creativity to test and perfect recipes in your new apartment.  

We know that entertaining is important, which is why we have designed our kitchens with you in mind, giving you the perfect opportunity to make new memories at the heart of your home. The ceramic hob is a fantastic cooking station and we have no doubt that you will use it to cook a mind-blowing cheese sauce for your famous cauliflower cheese!  

 When you enter your retirement living apartment you’ll notice the integrated electric oven is set at waist height so it’s easy to pop those roasted potatoes in, and with slip-resistant Amtico flooring, you’ll be able to move around as fast as you like without slipping and dropping the Yorkshire puddings! 

 Even if you worry about making a mess with countless pots and pans, your kitchen at Albany Lodge will have a trusty dishwasher on standby ready to clean them all. The high-quality stainless steel extractor hood will help to clear away any hot air or burnt smells if something does go slightly wrong (or the roasted carrots get a little chargrilled).  

 Living at Albany Lodge will be something to be proud of. Your guests will be able to sit in your stylish lounge and admire your state-of-the-art kitchen with a glass of wine (plus you can still chat to them if you find yourself suck in the kitchen cooking). This open plan design gives you a wider area to socialise with guests which is perfect for hosting family and friends! In your luxury retirement apartment, there is the space to enjoy hosting, entertaining and most importantly creating new memories.  

Your luxury apartment will provide you with a kitchen where you can cook up some wholesome meals and enjoy time with family, friends and maybe even your new neighbours. So why not start making those memories and book your luxury retirement apartment now to become a member of the Albany Lodge community.  

If you love the buzz of innovation, relocate to the historic city of Derby!

Famed for having the worlds first factory, Derby has always been home to change. With augmented reality town trails and the revered “Museum of Making” on your doorstep, you’ll never fall short of finding new interesting things to see and do; living in this vibrant city will provide excitement and intrigue.  

 Albany Lodge is just a 10 minute bus journey from this interesting city centre.  

 But the location of our retirement living apartments means there so much more than the city centre to explore, Derby is also home to some of the most beautiful National Trust parks, cosy cafes and clubs.  

For great days out to visit with new neighbours, friends and family, there is plenty to explore.  

 Here are some of our favourite places to discover just a short journey from your retirement living apartment.  

 National Trust Days Out 

 Derby has some lovely National Trust estates with history around every corner.  

 Kedleston Hall is a good place to start to get more familiar with Derby and it’s history. A short 20 minute drive from Albany Lodge, Kedleston offers 800 acres of parkland an exquisite garden, perfect for an afternoon stroll. The Curzon family has lived at Kedleston since the 12th century and continues to live in the hall. The house is full of artefacts from Lord Curzon’s travels to India in the early 1900s as well as extensive artworks gifted to the family. For more information click the link below.  

 https://www.visitderby.co.uk/things-to-do/great-base/kedleston-hall/ 

 Cafes around Town  

 If you fancy popping out for a couple of hours, Derby is the perfect place to find a new local coffee shop with a neighbour from your retirement living village. Derby has a number of independent coffee shops if you fancy a natter with your friends or just sit back and enjoy a good book.  

 Speaking of, the Book Cafe in Derby city centre has brilliant reviews, and it is a perfect place to pick up a book that takes your fancy, have a fresh cup of tea and enjoy time to yourself. For more independent cafes nearby see the tripadvisor’s top ten and see which ones take your fancy! 

 https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurants-g187048-c8-Derby_Derbyshire_England.html 

 Group activities 

 Retiring can seem daunting at first, but we promise you, there will never be a dull moment. There will be plenty of opportunities to meet like minded individuals, at large number of group activities you can get involved in around the city.  

 University for the Third Age is a brilliant way to keep the brain active, there is a broad range of part-time courses in Derby that you can register for, ranging from from learning a new language to finding a new passion for art.  

If academia isn’t your thing, why not find out what is happening at the Mickleover Community Centre. The community center allows had a broad range of activities to try, from a energetic dance classes to enjoying a knitting session with a new group of friends.  

 Finding the right activities and balance in your retirement living

 community may seem like a big task, but the good news is that, plenty of people have managed it, and for them, retirement has become the happiest time of their life. 

An Aviva study found that 62% of retired people consider themselves truly happy, compared to 42% of people in work. Similarly, some 62% of people said their retirement was better than they had ever imagined. 

 So, getting it right means it could be everything you are looking forward to and more. 

Burghley Retirement is committed to helping you improve your everyday life, out with the mundane tasks of the past and in with taking a relaxing retirement, where everything is looked after for you.  

The service charge that every resident pays, prioritises you and your ability to live without the stresses of maintaining your home. We know that you deserve to spend your retirement free from the worries of home maintenance and in this blog we’ll outline the purpose of the service charge and its benefits to you.  

Independent living is having a life with fewer responsibilities, our communities are built for you to discover the freedom of retirement living, not the trappings of ground and property repairs. Choosing to live at Burghley Retirement Living is about having the balance between luxury and the time to pursue your hobbies, such as gardening, cooking and travel. Gone are the days of cleaning the windows, scraping out the gutters or sweeping the patio, all of this is done for you at Burghley Retirement Living. 

If you are someone who enjoys looking after a garden, you have the best of both worlds. We run a scheme at each retirement living accommodation which allows you to choose an area to take care of and nurture but the wider landscaping is taken care of meaning you don’t have to fret about the housekeeping of the grounds. At Burghley, we discreetly get on with these tasks as we want you to be taken care of as much as we can without you feeling dependent on us.  

We are building communities of like-minded retirees who see the importance of togetherness and socialising. A wide selection of refreshments are provided in the communal area (included in your service charge), which allows you to get to know your neighbours in a neutral setting without having to bring your own mugs, milk and tea bags!  

Whilst you relax in the communal lounge, our house management team will be using your service charge to work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly for you and the rest of your community. Having fewer responsibilities about the house means more time to enjoy those days out with newfound friends. If you don’t fancy traveling far but want to stay active why not join your neighbours with one of the many social events that we organise or go for a walk together in the grounds. All of this is at your disposal when you choose Burghley Retirement.  

Having quality time to spend with Grandchildren is very important to our residents which is why we take care of household management, this allows you more time for days out at the park, beach or a local market. By simply paying the service charge, you know you are in safe hands, we take care of everything from buildings insurance to a 24-hour call out service, meaning that there won’t be the strain of worrying about jobs to be done at home meaning you can enjoy your time with family with no household stresses, worries or burdens.  

Life at Burghley is all about you and having the time to indulge in the time and luxuries retirement offers. The constraints of menial tasks shouldn’t drag you down at this stage in your life which is why we charge a small service charge and do the hard work for you.  

However, we do understand the desire not to feel wholly dependent which is why we offer the chance to tend to your own garden or carry out creative activities with your new community. Your retirement is about finding new passions and friends whilst keeping active and staying happy, so let us take care of the rest.  

What is included in the service charge? 

To ensure the grounds and communal areas are maintained and taken care of, our residents pay an annual service charge. The service charge is reviewed each year and is managed on a transparent open book basis, controlled by you, the residents. Your service charge includes the costs of the following: 

•  A House Manager who is on site 5 days per week 
• Tea and coffee in the communal lounge 
• A 24-hour emergency remote call service available to all residents 
• Your own personal intruder alarm 
• Buildings insurance 
• Electricity, heating and lighting of the communal areas 
• Maintenance and management of the building and its external areas including: 
  • Gardening 
  • Cleaning 
  • Servicing 
  • Window Cleaning 
  • Repairs and redecoration in communal areas 
  • Annual safety testing 

 Find out more about the service charge costs here: https://burghleyretirement.co.uk/how-it-works/ 

Many people dream of living by the sea their whole lives, yet only 5% of UK residents actually take the leap. At Royles Lodge, we believe that the time is now! Our brand new 

retirement village is situated in the craft village of Marsh Mills near Thornton-Cleveleys, meaning that you too could be breathing in coastal air. 

 Val and Brian D’Arcy are uprooting from Leicestershire to move to Royles Lodge and feel that living by the coast is an adventure they are excitedly anticipating. Not only will they be by the sea, but they will be lucky enough to be closer to their family. Having long distance family relationships can be difficult for more mature family members with 61% of them saying they don’t see family enough, with this in mind, the pull of relatives is an important reason for Val and Brian’s move. 

 They are looking forward to being closer to family but also excited by the prospect of their friends and neighbours from Leicestershire coming to stay in their spare room or in the guest suite at Royles Lodge. The two equal-sized ensuite bedrooms with walk-in wardrobes was part of the appeal of the development when Val and Brian were considering where to live. “The large bedrooms as well as the generous lounge with space for a dining table was a real find for us. As we are downsizing, we still do need the space and the second bedroom can double up as a second TV room as well as a guest room.” 

 One of the things they are most looking forward to is being part of a new community and they have worked with Ruth from Unique Estate Agency pouring over the floorplans to ensure they get the perfect plot. They decided on a corner apartment overlooking the carpark so they can see the comings and goings of their new neighbours. The communal lounge is also a great place to meet new friends and Val is looking forward to lending her skills as a former florist and different crafts to her new community in some of their organised events. 

 Martin Hudson, Managing Director of Torsion Care says “Burghley Retirement is the result of years of research and planning to get the right homes to the right people, in the right places. We are delighted to bring a new standard of living to the market and look forward to seeing the difference it makes to our customers.” 

 When the apartments are ready to move into in 2022, Val and Brian will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary and they cannot wait for their friends and family – old and new to be part of the festivities. 

Find out how you can make the move like Val and Brian here

By Maggie Wilkinson 

It’s always useful to have a little project up your sleeve for when the little ones come to visit and need some relaxing indoor entertainment in your retirement flat.   

Children love to do creative things, so here’s something to do on a rainy day from the comfort of your lifestyle village, without making too much mess in your lovely apartment – meet Cressida the cress head and her friends! 

Children as young as four can enjoy this project, stick-on eyes can be fun, and older children love to get creative with the detailing and character of the faces… 

To make this project, it’s good to get the preparation done ahead of time so the kids can get stuck in straight away and everything is to hand. 

Requirements: – 

• Save some eggshells, and when you crack them open, cut as neatly as you can close to the top or the bottom of the egg. Your choice will influence the shape of the final face. Wash them and let them dry out. 
• An ordinary pencil for each child and coloured pencils, or fine liner pens, felt tips; an assortment provides choice. 

• Some plastic sheeting or newspaper to protect your work surface 
• A small bowl of compost 
• A packet of cress seeds and a small saucer 
• A teaspoon for each child  
• An egg cup for each “Cress head” 

• A square of kitchen roll for each, or scraps of fabric 
• Water to moisten the compost. 
• Egg boxes if taking home 

Method: – 

Get each child to draw a face on their eggshell. It’s companionable to work alongside, as it gets them going and gives them confidence. 

When they’re happy with the features, and have doodled a bit of hair maybe, let them colour in with the pencils, or whatever they choose. 

When the colouring is dry, put half an inch of water into the shell, and show them how to nearly fill it with compost, using a teaspoon. 

 Show them how to drip water in slowly, so the compost doesn’t spill out, then firm it in carefully so as not to break the shell or spoil the art work. 

Get the kids to open the cress packet and tip the seeds onto the saucer. 

Show them how to sprinkle the seeds onto the soil virtually covering it for a thick head of hair! 

Tap another teaspoon of compost to cover the seeds, and drip on more water. 

Fold the kitchen paper or scrap of fabric into four and tuck it into the egg cup to make a decorative neckerchief. 

Park the eggshell into the egg cup, or if they are going to take them home, place them into an empty egg box for transport. 

The cress will need a careful water each day, and after four or five days on a sunny windowsill, the cress “hair” will start to grow, and the longer it gets, the more characterful and quirky the head will be. 

It’s good to use real soil because it teaches them about seeds, growing food and when it comes to hair cut time, there’s another opportunity for a secondary activity…lunch! 

How about boiling some fresh eggs to mash with a bit of mayo, and an egg and cress sandwich could be on the menu! 

Have Fun! 

By Simon Oakley 

The Thornton-Cleveleys area is an ideal place for senior living communities as you can access nature within a short distance, whether it be nature reserves, long walks or just admiring plant and animal life. Here are some locations that showcase the best of nature in the area. 

Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve 

The first location worth exploring is the Marton Mere Nature Reserve in Ormskirk because of the rich diversity it offers and the native plant life. Managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, you can find plants such as the endangered whorled caraway, golden dock, tubular water dropwort, early marsh orchids, the large-flowered hemp nettle and purple ramping fumitory, all native to the nature reserve. 

This offers a paradise for wildlife throughout the year as different species settle in the area. For example, in the spring you can see wildflowers and birds nesting whilst during summers your see insects such as butterflies and dragonflies appear. 

If you have the spare time, then why not get up and personal with the wildlife in the area. You can get involved in activities such as a canoe safari and pond dipping giving people the opportunity to see nature and wildlife up close. 

Click here for more information

Wyre Estuary Country Park 

The Wyre Estuary County Park is another good place to visit as you can experience nature in a relaxed setting. Walks and picnics are a great way to just sit and enjoy your surroundings or you can sign up with local rangers at the park to go on fun tours and gain an insight into what makes the park special.  

The country park is ideal if you enjoy watching birds in a natural environment or if you admire different tree varieties. It’s a great place to visit to just explore your environment outside of your independent living communities. 

Click here for more information

Rossall Beach 

Living at Royles Lodge means you are only minutes from the Lancashire Coast. Rossall Beach situated a mile from the Cleveleys Beach is worth a mention because of the natural landscape that allows nature to thrive. If you walk along the beach, you will experience birds flocking along the sandy beaches and marine life along the coast. There has been rumours that even seals can be seen occasionally.  

In many ways, it is perfect for a late evening walk as you can watch the sun descend along the coast at sunset.  

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All of these places are a great change of scenery for those living in luxury retirement villages, when friends or family come to visit why not take them for a little trip outside of your senior living communities. 

Burghley retirement living is a brilliant opportunity to take full advantage of your retirement. It gives you countless opportunities to enjoy your well earned retirement the way that it should be.

At Burghley we believe that the time you spend after retiring should be stress free with no worries hanging over your head, so with that being the case, why wait to move into your own independent living?

Burghley Retirement Living provides an environment in which you are able to stay active physically and mentally (there are even tennis courts to enjoy with your new neighbours).  

We understand that your home is a place where memories have been made throughout your life and it will be understandably hard to let go, but Burghley’s retirement apartments are fantastic places to make new memories in during this exciting next chapter of your life.

The chance to downsize and be free of the burdens of house owning makes buying your own luxury apartment a no brainer.

Having more time and money to enjoy trips is just one of the many things you’ll find you have after downsizing. Not having to deal with maintenance of a house or worrying about cutting the lawn every week will mean you’ll find that the time you have really is your time!

If you are a fan of gardening, Burghley will also offer areas that green fingered residents are able to care for, meaning that you won’t miss out on doing the things you love doing, but without the pressure.  

Burghley are offering a new type of retirement living in which you can thrive independently within beautiful surroundings close to our luxury complexes.

We have situated our luxury retirement apartments near to areas of interest because we know the importance of spending time with your loved ones and taking the grandchildren on day trips.

The freedom of using your leisure time to do activities of your choice, whilst fulfilling and rewarding may be a new concept to you, meaning the idea of being a retiree will be far from how you see yourself.

However, surrounding yourself with others who are also enjoying life after work will help you thrive in an environment where Burghley takes care of any mundane issues and worries that you may have had before life at Burghley retirement living.  

Buying a retirement living apartment can sound daunting at first, maybe even lonely to some.

However, at Burghley Retirement Living we make sure that you are given much more than a luxury retirement apartment, by creating a community with others with similar interests and attitudes to life in retirement.

Having your own private independent apartment allows you to host dinner parties for your new neighbours in your fully equipped kitchen and entertain friends and family in your luxury living areas.

Having fully accessible living designs means that your guests will be able to visit your apartment comfortably, and of course allows you to move around without any difficulty in your own home.  

So the question stands: why wait to move into your retirement living apartment?

The answer is simple, don’t wait, you deserve to experience retirement in the way you’ve always pictured. After years of working it’s time to take time for yourself and be proud of what you have achieved.

By Kirsti Randazzo

Keeping yourself busy in the colder months can be a struggle, especially if you live alone.

With the days being shorter and the cold weather keeping you inside, finding activities that bring you joy is key to beating the winter blues.

There is a hobby that is easy to start, and you probably have most of what you need available.

That hobby is scrapbooking. Not only is this a nice way to spend a chilly winter night, but the memories it brings up are priceless.

To get started with scrapbooking, you need to choose a theme.

Obviously, the theme has to go with the photos you choose. If you are doing it for yourself, maybe do your childhood, your teens, your wedding, or any period of your life you want to spend some time thinking about.

If you are doing this as a gift to a loved one, try to tell them a story with your scrapbook. Maybe you could do the journey that led you to have them in your life.

A scrapbook makes such a meaningful and special gift that can be shared for generations.

Make sure to not overwhelm yourself by starting with too many photos. Start small when it comes to scrapbooking. You can start with 30 photos for your first book.

Pick out a scrapbook at a craft store and get some fun stickers. Having a nice variety of coloured pens adds a lot of personality to your scrapbook.

If you are making a book for a family member, consider writing stories for them next to each meaningful picture. A picture is worth 1000 words on its own, but knowing the back story is extra special.

Scrapbooking your favourite trips you’ve taken can be just as good as going on one!

There are stickers on the internet for just about every place you can imagine, so don’t be afraid to get extra creative with your pages!

If you are very crafty, using paint to make headings on each page is a beautiful touch.

Layering paper under the photos looks so elegant – especially if you purchase scissors that leave a design as they cut. The more detail you use, the more fancy your book looks.

However you decide to scrapbook, make it your own and have fun with it.

If you have a group of friends nearby, host a scrapbook party!

You can have all your supplies and accessories set up and invite your friends to bring theirs over as well.

It can be a lot of fun to share paper, stickers, and memories with your friends. Make some hot chocolate for everyone and have a cosy winter scrapbook party! You could even suggest you all follow the same theme for the book you’re making.

Everything is better with friends and loved ones, scrapbooking included!

As the festive season is fast approaching, why not decorate the front of your luxury retirement apartment door with a homemade wreath?

The steps are easier than you might think with just a few tools and some festive materials you’ll be set for success!

This year could be the perfect  opportunity to practice making a wreath before teaching your Derby Retirement Living neighbours next Christmas.

We are going to give you everything you need to know about making a wire wreath to hang in your new luxury retirement living apartment.

Materials 

To make a beautiful wreath you will no doubt need some beautiful materials, whether these be foraged or bought from a local florist we have all the guidance you will need to make your wreath stand out from the rest (especially the shop bought ones). 

If you’re already local to the Derby area, you can take a short trip into Derby City Centre to “Boutique Florist” to choose your greenery for your wreath, or if you fancy doing it all yourself, why not make a day of it and go to your local park with the grandchildren to collect shrubbery and flowers to create a unique wreath that will stand out.

You may want to add some dried orange slices to your wreath so why not go to a local Derby greengrocers “A. Woodhouse” in the Markethall to get the best quality fruit? To dry these out and fill your luxury retirement apartment with festive aromas, simply slice your oranges thinly, placing them onto greaseproof paper bake at 50 degrees celsius for up to 5 hours. This will make your new home feel very festive with the smells of Christmas. 

You might also decide that you want to add crystals, gold leaf stickers or maybe some wired ribbon. 

Essentials You will Need 

• Wire or a wire frame
• Floral Wire
• Work Gloves- so to not hurt yourself whilst you’re getting creative 

• Wire Cutters- to bend and cut your frame

Instructions

Below is everything you need to know about making a wire wreath at Christmas time this year to hang in your new luxury retirement living apartment next Christmas.

Now you have all your supplies, you’re ready to get started along with grandchildren on a wintery Sunday afternoon.

Step 1: Firstly get your wire and bend it to suit your preferred shape safely using the wire cutters to do so (shaped wire is also available if you don’t feel comfortable bending the wire yourself). 

Step 2: Now take your greenery, this could be evergreen shrubbery or any greenery shrubs of your choice, and place it on a part of the main wire frame. Using your floral wire wrap the wire around the shrubbery to attach it to the frame of your wreath and do not cut the wire. Continue to do this until the frame is fully covered and tie the floral wire to the frame and cut it off when you are happy. 

Step 3: Once you have covered the wire frame it is time to add your festive dried fruits to the magnificent display which will light up your luxury retirement apartment with festive cheer. Go as wild as you like, this is all about you taking the time to try something new and works as a great activity to keep your mind creatively active. Finally to hang your wreath without making any holes you can use command strips to hang your creation up on your door or inside your apartment!

By Maggie Wilkinson

Retirement communities are a relatively new phenomenon in England, having  popped up in America, about 35 years ago. They are an absolutely marvellous new way of life for people who are retired, or thinking about retiring. 

The only criteria is that most developments have planning permission to meet the needs of over 55’s. 

The luxury retirement villages are a brilliant concept offering tremendous advantages for those who choose to live in one. They offer you a very liberating and empowering new life… 

The Benefits: 

• The immediate joy is that you no longer have to do all the costly, hard work chores of household and garden maintenance. You can forget gutter clearing, mowing, window cleaning, it’s all taken care of. You will own your own home, and pay an annual service charge which covers the cost of the maintenance of the gardens and all the resources onsite. Your time now is entirely for you to enjoy – a true reward for the hard working part of your life. 

• You will have more disposable income because won’t be paying to heat and decorate rooms you no longer need; your living space will be tailored to your exact personal requirements. Don’t think of it as downsizing – smartly think of it as choosing a property that’s an exact fit for you. 

• Over time, you can take the pleasure of making your home just how you like it, but rather than re-decorating and renovation, re-vamping and making good, it will feel more like painting a beautiful new picture, because your canvas is so fresh and brand new for you. 

• Enjoy booking the guest suite for your visiting friends and family who wish to visit you at your retirement flat, or alternatively, you may choose an apartment with an extra room for when you want to spoil your visitors. The communal lounge and coffee area, as well as the verdant grounds give you lots of airy spaces for you to entertain your guests. 

• When you move in, to your over 55 community, you will really have fine-tuned your life, including All The Stuff. All the things we accumulate, that creep in and clog up a home will be sorted and moved on, that in itself is quite a relief. The things you bring will be the special things, just what you’ve selected. De-cluttering brings calm and clarity, and you might think, hmm, now’s the time to travel perhaps, go out and see some different parts of the world. Now is your time without worrying about the garden needing watering whilst you’re away. 

• You can bring your furry friend – Burghley Retirement welcomes well-behaved pets, just drop them a note to let them know before you move in. 

• Retirement village homes are so safe, because the security is excellent. You can rest easy knowing that the House Manager is onsite all week, and that the only entry to the apartments is with a key fob. 

A retirement community, or village, works so well on many levels for people who are getting older who have much left to discover, do and enjoy, and the best thing is that this new life can be exactly what you choose. 

By Maggie Wilkinson.  

Retirement is a such a golden time, a time to reflect on not only what you want to do, but also, realising just how much you have to give. 

Grannies and Grandpas are the superheroes of this stressful world - the most wonderful asset a family can have, and now you have settled into your amazing retirement village, the grandchildren can come for days, mornings, maybe afternoons – on a regular basis, and you will be giving them the most precious gift there is. Your time.   

It’s very special for children with siblings to revel in one-to-one time with a grandparent, and now, you can offer that, and perhaps they can take turns. 

When an older person has a close relationship with a youngster, a marvellous exchange can take place; you get to see the world through their eyes, and they see it through yours! 

Both sides will love the talking, you’ll learn so much.  

Your stories and memories will make them smile, they won’t believe the way things were, back in the day, and how you got through somehow, and went on to have happy families. 

They would love to look through your photograph albums! And you will enjoy hearing them chatter about their friends and their schools, you will have a revolutionary insight into their world.  

You are an incredible gift for busy, young parents, who are probably juggling a house, jobs, pets and the children. 

You remember how that was… what a joy for them to know that they can bring the children over to you at your senior living home and know that their little one is going to be nurtured in a peaceful happy oasis with unique you.

And, the gift is returned in several ways.

They will help to keep you healthy – the germs young children come into contact with, playing, eating and touching, will actually give your immune system a boost, and help you to stay well.   

Research has also shown that spending time with grandchildren is truly rewarding, because it makes you happy, and that’s the best antidote to depression there is. 

The time you share will fill the odd gaps children experience these days, you can teach them the little life skills that schools no longer have time for, and things parents find hard to fit in.  

Little things are big things: Empower them!   

Depending on your grandchildren’s age, these can be great examples of bonding activities: 

• Teaching them how to tie their shoe-laces 

• Showing them how to lay the table (make a little posy to pretty it up) 

• Cooking, baking, preparing a salad, hulling strawberries 

• Button pictures, sew on a button, showing them how to thread buttons on string 

• Drawing and painting, colouring – always a pleasure 

• Stories, songs & poems  

• Taking photographs 

• Teaching a musical instrument 

Children naturally want to help, to be part of things, but at home there isn’t always time to indulge that, and parents often take for speed.

But you are time-rich and can enjoy showing them all sorts of things, at your leisure within your independent senior living. 

You don’t need to buy lots of expensive toys, they will be happy just to play. This is the importance of Grandparents! Lastly, don’t forget to laugh, and be daft, they really love that!

There are many breathtaking beaches on the Cleveleys seafront that are perfect to spend the day at, either exploring or on a family day.

1. Cleveleys beach

At Royles Lodge, this beach is right on your doorstep! A walk down to the beach front in Cleveleys and you will be at the beach front with many cafes in the area for you to easily spend the day there.

2. Fleetwood beach

This sandy beach is dog friendly which is good news if you’re planning a day trip with your family and pets. This beach is a go to for families, water sport enthusiast and nature lovers to enjoy.

3. Ainsdale beach

A blue flag awarded beach which also holds a quality coast award, which ensures clean water and plenty of facilities to make a beach day a happy and comfortable one.

4. Bispham beach

Known locally as ‘The Cliffs’, Bispham has extensive man-made sea defences and views along the coast and out towards the Irish sea, this beach is a place to peacefully sit and watch as the scenery will change every day.

5. Formby beach and Nature Reserve

Formby has miles of sandy beach and acres of woodland to explore and spend the day at. There is a lot to see and explore at Formby as well as a calming and peaceful beach.

A New Beginning – and different ways to think about gardening!

It takes great courage and imagination to choose a completely new lifestyle for yourself, and our luxury retirement villages are the perfect place to make a change.

Sometimes adjusting to a new lifestyle can feel quite emotionally daunting, and if you’ve enjoyed a garden previously, you might be wondering how you’ll cope without one.

An Allotment:

When you stay with us at our luxury retirement villages, why not sign up for a local allotment? The advantages are brilliant. You’ll be able to get that wonderful feeling from growing and nurturing plants and being outside in the fresh air and sunshine, on a scale you can choose and manage.

• A half plot – or share a plot with a friend. You’ll be able to share the work, your ideas, skills and resources, and when one of you is away, the other can keep it ticking over.
• Community plots – many sites offer these, where you can just have a raised bed for yourself, on a plot with like-minded people. It’s amazing how much you can grow in a small place and you will enjoy meeting others on the same plot, swapping ideas, seeds, and probably sharing a pot of tea!
• Allotment Committees love people like you! It may be that you can offer them a bit of much-needed help from time to time, that amazing gift of time which enables them to run annual events like plant sales, annual shows etc. It’s really good fun helping out, from making tea and sandwiches, sowing seeds, arranging the displays, to baking cakes and so on. There are so many jobs to do if you like helping out. And as a volunteer, you can choose what and when you can offer, making the best of your particular skills and preferences.

House plants:

You can bring your garden indoors! While you stay with us as part of our senior living communities why not make your room feel more like home with some fresh house plants. They require just a little bit of maintenance, and that splash of green is so uplifting and worthwhile! Here are some ideas: –

• Spider plants – easy and graceful.
• Mint – lush and fragrant and you can enjoy a glass of fresh mint tea!
• Aloe Vera – dramatic and easy, enjoying light and a little water.
• Succulents – love a nice warm sunny spot. They need very little water, and just a shallow container for three or four plants. The variety available is amazing, and your collection will surely grow.
• Seasonal displays – you can change with the seasons in your apartment and grow beautiful spring bulbs, little potted roses, geraniums, so many plants are readily available that are happy to grow indoors. Think of that joyful splash of colour, the wonderful scents from things growing, and the pleasure in looking after them. No heavy tools needed, just some sharp fine snips, a long spouted light little watering can, and take your pick!
• Flower arrangements – such a lovely way of introducing growing beauty and colour inside, and if you do it regularly you’ll enjoy a selection of different shaped vases and containers. Your tools will tidy away in a drawer, and you can do it when you feel like it. Bad weather no problem!

So, let’s get growing!

Author – Maggie Wilkinson

A New Beginning – and different ways to think about gardening!

It takes great courage and imagination to choose a completely new lifestyle for yourself, and our luxury retirement villages are the perfect place to make a change.

Sometimes adjusting to a new lifestyle can feel quite emotionally daunting, and if you’ve enjoyed a garden previously, you might be wondering how you’ll cope without one.

An Allotment:

When you stay with us at our luxury retirement villages, why not sign up for a local allotment? The advantages are brilliant. You’ll be able to get that wonderful feeling from growing and nurturing plants and being outside in the fresh air and sunshine, on a scale you can choose and manage.

• A half plot – or share a plot with a friend. You’ll be able to share the work, your ideas, skills and resources, and when one of you is away, the other can keep it ticking over.
• Community plots – many sites offer these, where you can just have a raised bed for yourself, on a plot with like-minded people. It’s amazing how much you can grow in a small place and you will enjoy meeting others on the same plot, swapping ideas, seeds, and probably sharing a pot of tea!
• Allotment Committees love people like you! It may be that you can offer them a bit of much-needed help from time to time, that amazing gift of time which enables them to run annual events like plant sales, annual shows etc. It’s really good fun helping out, from making tea and sandwiches, sowing seeds, arranging the displays, to baking cakes and so on. There are so many jobs to do if you like helping out. And as a volunteer, you can choose what and when you can offer, making the best of your particular skills and preferences.

House plants:

You can bring your garden indoors! While you stay with us as part of our senior living communities why not make your room feel more like home with some fresh house plants. They require just a little bit of maintenance, and that splash of green is so uplifting and worthwhile! Here are some ideas: –

• Spider plants – easy and graceful.
• Mint – lush and fragrant and you can enjoy a glass of fresh mint tea!
• Aloe Vera – dramatic and easy, enjoying light and a little water.
• Succulents – love a nice warm sunny spot. They need very little water, and just a shallow container for three or four plants. The variety available is amazing, and your collection will surely grow.
• Seasonal displays – you can change with the seasons in your apartment and grow beautiful spring bulbs, little potted roses, geraniums, so many plants are readily available that are happy to grow indoors. Think of that joyful splash of colour, the wonderful scents from things growing, and the pleasure in looking after them. No heavy tools needed, just some sharp fine snips, a long spouted light little watering can, and take your pick!
• Flower arrangements – such a lovely way of introducing growing beauty and colour inside, and if you do it regularly you’ll enjoy a selection of different shaped vases and containers. Your tools will tidy away in a drawer, and you can do it when you feel like it. Bad weather no problem!

So, let’s get growing!

Author – Maggie Wilkinson

A New Beginning – and different ways to think about gardening!

It takes great courage and imagination to choose a completely new lifestyle for yourself, and our luxury retirement villages are the perfect place to make a change.

Sometimes adjusting to a new lifestyle can feel quite emotionally daunting, and if you’ve enjoyed a garden previously, you might be wondering how you’ll cope without one.

An Allotment:

When you stay with us at our luxury retirement villages, why not sign up for a local allotment? The advantages are brilliant. You’ll be able to get that wonderful feeling from growing and nurturing plants and being outside in the fresh air and sunshine, on a scale you can choose and manage.

• A half plot – or share a plot with a friend. You’ll be able to share the work, your ideas, skills and resources, and when one of you is away, the other can keep it ticking over.
• Community plots – many sites offer these, where you can just have a raised bed for yourself, on a plot with like-minded people. It’s amazing how much you can grow in a small place and you will enjoy meeting others on the same plot, swapping ideas, seeds, and probably sharing a pot of tea!
• Allotment Committees love people like you! It may be that you can offer them a bit of much-needed help from time to time, that amazing gift of time which enables them to run annual events like plant sales, annual shows etc. It’s really good fun helping out, from making tea and sandwiches, sowing seeds, arranging the displays, to baking cakes and so on. There are so many jobs to do if you like helping out. And as a volunteer, you can choose what and when you can offer, making the best of your particular skills and preferences.

House plants:

You can bring your garden indoors! While you stay with us as part of our senior living communities why not make your room feel more like home with some fresh house plants. They require just a little bit of maintenance, and that splash of green is so uplifting and worthwhile! Here are some ideas: –

• Spider plants – easy and graceful.
• Mint – lush and fragrant and you can enjoy a glass of fresh mint tea!
• Aloe Vera – dramatic and easy, enjoying light and a little water.
• Succulents – love a nice warm sunny spot. They need very little water, and just a shallow container for three or four plants. The variety available is amazing, and your collection will surely grow.
• Seasonal displays – you can change with the seasons in your apartment and grow beautiful spring bulbs, little potted roses, geraniums, so many plants are readily available that are happy to grow indoors. Think of that joyful splash of colour, the wonderful scents from things growing, and the pleasure in looking after them. No heavy tools needed, just some sharp fine snips, a long spouted light little watering can, and take your pick!
• Flower arrangements – such a lovely way of introducing growing beauty and colour inside, and if you do it regularly you’ll enjoy a selection of different shaped vases and containers. Your tools will tidy away in a drawer, and you can do it when you feel like it. Bad weather no problem!

So, let’s get growing!

Author – Maggie Wilkinson

A New Beginning – and different ways to think about gardening!

It takes great courage and imagination to choose a completely new lifestyle for yourself, and our luxury retirement villages are the perfect place to make a change.

Sometimes adjusting to a new lifestyle can feel quite emotionally daunting, and if you’ve enjoyed a garden previously, you might be wondering how you’ll cope without one.

An Allotment:

When you stay with us at our luxury retirement villages, why not sign up for a local allotment? The advantages are brilliant. You’ll be able to get that wonderful feeling from growing and nurturing plants and being outside in the fresh air and sunshine, on a scale you can choose and manage.

• A half plot – or share a plot with a friend. You’ll be able to share the work, your ideas, skills and resources, and when one of you is away, the other can keep it ticking over.
• Community plots – many sites offer these, where you can just have a raised bed for yourself, on a plot with like-minded people. It’s amazing how much you can grow in a small place and you will enjoy meeting others on the same plot, swapping ideas, seeds, and probably sharing a pot of tea!
• Allotment Committees love people like you! It may be that you can offer them a bit of much-needed help from time to time, that amazing gift of time which enables them to run annual events like plant sales, annual shows etc. It’s really good fun helping out, from making tea and sandwiches, sowing seeds, arranging the displays, to baking cakes and so on. There are so many jobs to do if you like helping out. And as a volunteer, you can choose what and when you can offer, making the best of your particular skills and preferences.

House plants:

You can bring your garden indoors! While you stay with us as part of our senior living communities why not make your room feel more like home with some fresh house plants. They require just a little bit of maintenance, and that splash of green is so uplifting and worthwhile! Here are some ideas: –

• Spider plants – easy and graceful.
• Mint – lush and fragrant and you can enjoy a glass of fresh mint tea!
• Aloe Vera – dramatic and easy, enjoying light and a little water.
• Succulents – love a nice warm sunny spot. They need very little water, and just a shallow container for three or four plants. The variety available is amazing, and your collection will surely grow.
• Seasonal displays – you can change with the seasons in your apartment and grow beautiful spring bulbs, little potted roses, geraniums, so many plants are readily available that are happy to grow indoors. Think of that joyful splash of colour, the wonderful scents from things growing, and the pleasure in looking after them. No heavy tools needed, just some sharp fine snips, a long spouted light little watering can, and take your pick!
• Flower arrangements – such a lovely way of introducing growing beauty and colour inside, and if you do it regularly you’ll enjoy a selection of different shaped vases and containers. Your tools will tidy away in a drawer, and you can do it when you feel like it. Bad weather no problem!

So, let’s get growing!

Author – Maggie Wilkinson