Adlington Life June Magazine 2026

Adlington Life

A place where retirement life opens up. Step inside.

Where were you in 1966?

Feel like you’re on holiday every day

Five simple steps to a brighter, worry-free future

Welcome

There is a common misconception that retirement is about slowing down. Thankfully, for many people it becomes the point at which life opens up in entirely new ways.

With more freedom over how time is spent, there is often space to rediscover old interests, explore new places, build friendships and enjoy experiences that busy responsibilities once pushed aside.

This month, we explore how a retirement living community can create the freedom to travel more easily, enjoy time with family and friends more fully, and live with fewer of the everyday worries that once occupied time and energy; it is often the smaller changes that make the greatest difference.

Whatever you have planned for the coming months, I hope you find some inspiration to take a fresh step.

Dr Ed Gladman Chief Executive Officer

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06 Anniversary of D-Day

11 Start of the World Cup

14 World Blood Donor Day

20 King’s Birthday

21 Father’s Day

21 June Solstice / Longest Day

29 Start of Wimbledon

Turn to the back page to find out more about our monthly events

01 Who scored a hat-trick for England in the 1966 World Cup Final?

08

04 06 12 14 Contents

Feel like you’re on holiday every day

Discover how Adlington homeowners enjoy a lifestyle that feels like being on holiday every day.

Travel inspiration for 2026

Travel is evolving, with more people seeking holidays that are comfortable, meaningful and experience-led.

Make every visit feel like a getaway

Having guests brings joy and quality time together. 10

Where were you in 1966?

Homeowners at Brookfields House have shared memories of England’s 1966 World Cup win, recalling their celebrations.

Is a bungalow really the best next step?

For many people thinking about downsizing, a bungalow often comes to mind first.

Smart moves start now

Five simple steps to a brighter, worry-free future.

02 Who has won the most Wimbledon men’s singles titles in the Open Era?

03 What ceremonial event marks the official birthday of the British monarch each June?

04 Which famous music festival normally takes place in June in Somerset, England?

05 Which countries does the River Douro run through?

06 Which famous film series features the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland?

07 What is the birthstone for June?

08 Which country won the firstever FIFA World Cup in 1930?

09 What astronomical event marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere?

10 Who became the first woman in space in June 1963?

ANSWERS ON PAGE 11

Feel like you’re on holiday every day

There is a particular kind of contentment that comes from a wonderful holiday. It is the feeling of being well looked after, having everything just so, and knowing that your comfort and enjoyment have been thoughtfully considered. For many homeowners across Adlington Retirement Living communities, that feeling doesn’t end when the suitcase is unpacked - it’s part of everyday life.

Today’s retirees are more adventurous than ever, with many embracing the opportunity to explore the world, revisit favourite destinations and create new memories with family and friends. Travel stories can involve long-haul adventures, European cruises or spontaneous breaks closer to home.

Freedom to lock up and leave

Homeowners Margaret and John say that freedom has transformed the way they travel. “We love travelling, and the ability to lock up and leave our apartment is a real benefit,” they explain.

“We don’t have to worry about whether the house is safe or ask someone to check on it. We can just go.”

One of the most striking observations we’ve received from homeowners and their families is that the experience of living in an Adlington community mirrors many of the qualities people seek when they go away. One daughter described her parents’ lifestyle at an Adlington Retirement Living community as “like being on a cruise ship”, highlighting the social atmosphere, the high standards and being surrounded by friends enjoying the same stage of life.

Homeowners Ann and Harry describe the experience simply:

“You don’t have worries here. It’s like being on holiday all the time. We can’t get over it. It’s wonderful.”

Dining without the hassle

Dining plays a central role in creating that sense of everyday enjoyment. For many, the on-site restaurant becomes a place to connect. It offers the kind of convenience and quality often associated with a hotel stay, where meals are prepared and shared in good company. Some homeowners find themselves entertaining more than ever before, inviting friends and family to join them and experiencing the pleasure of hosting without the usual pressures.

Homeowners Tim and Angela, experienced that sense of ease after returning from a family holiday to Croatia. “We had lunch in the restaurant the day after we got back,” Angela says. “I’d booked it before we went away because I knew we would have no food in when we came home. It’s just so convenient.”

Thoughtful details that matter

This feeling of hospitality extends beyond meals. The attention to detail in the communal spaces, the upkeep of the gardens and the responsiveness of the team all contribute to an environment that feels consistently cared for. Homeowners frequently comment on how standards remain as high years after moving in as they were on the very first day, reinforcing a sense of pride in where they live.

Margaret, who moved to Brookfields House in March 2025, recalls returning from a river cruise in Paris. “The first person I saw when I got back was Claire, one of the staff,” she says. “‘Leave your case, I’ll take it up for you.’” For Margaret, those thoughtful moments reinforce the sense of comfort and reassurance that homeowners value so highly.

Friendship and community

This sense of community often becomes one of the most valued aspects of life. Friendships form quickly and easily, often built on shared

experiences, similar outlooks and a willingness to embrace this new chapter. For some, it replaces a feeling of isolation that had gradually developed before they moved; for others, it enriches an already active lifestyle with new connections and opportunities.

Homeowner Frank says: “I have a community which I’ve not had before.”

Ann went on to add:

“You’re never short of somebody to talk to. I’ve never laughed so much since I came here. It’s just wonderful. We’re laughing all the time.”

Family members often notice this transformation too. There is comfort in knowing that loved ones are not only safe, but also happy, engaged and surrounded by people who care. The knowledge that someone will notice if a neighbour is absent, or that help is readily available if needed, provides reassurance that extends beyond the individual homeowner to those closest to them.

Living retirement differently

For many, this lifestyle represents a shift in perspective. Retirement is no longer seen as a period of slowing down, but as an opportunity to live more fully, with fewer constraints and more time to enjoy what matters most. Travel remains an important part of that picture,

offering new experiences and adventures, but it is complemented by a home environment that delivers its own sense of enjoyment and fulfilment.

Homeowner Margaret, describes that feeling well: “When I come back here, I’ve got security, a new group of friends, and no worries about the garden or the house.”

The joy of returning home

In this way, the idea of “feeling like you’re on holiday every day” becomes more than a phrase. It reflects a way of living that combines freedom, comfort, connection and quality, allowing homeowners to make the most of both their travels and their time at home.

Perhaps that is the greatest luxury of all: not just the ability to go away, but the joy of coming back to somewhere that feels every bit as special.

Travel inspiration for 2026

Travel is changing. While traditional favourites such as Mediterranean escapes and sightseeing tours remain popular, many people are now seeking holidays that feel more enriching, comfortable and experience led.

With more flexibility in retirement and the freedom to travel throughout the year, there is a growing focus on enjoying destinations more fully, rather than rushing from one place to the next. Comfort, culture and meaningful moments are becoming just as important as the location itself.

From river cruises and scenic rail journeys to multigenerational family holidays, here are some of the travel trends inspiring people in 2026.

River cruising continues to grow in popularity

River cruising has become one of the fastest-growing styles of travel, combining comfort with the opportunity to explore multiple destinations at a relaxed pace.

Unlike larger ocean cruises, river ships are typically smaller and more intimate, allowing travellers to dock in the heart of historic cities and towns. Guests can unpack once and enjoy a journey that moves from one destination to the

next, often with guided excursions, regional dining and ever-changing scenery included along the way.

European routes along the Danube, Rhine and Douro remain particularly popular and longer journeys through destinations such as Egypt and Vietnam are also attracting interest.

Travel inspiration : uniworld.com sixstarcruises.co.uk

The rise of scenic rail journeys

Rail holidays are enjoying a resurgence, particularly among those looking for a more scenic way to explore.

From luxury train experiences through the Scottish Highlands to journeys across Switzerland’s mountain landscapes, rail travel offers the opportunity to enjoy the journey itself rather than simply the destination.

The nostalgia and romance of rail travel remains part of the appeal, alongside the comfort of travelling without airport queues, luggage restrictions or long transfers.

Trip inspiration: coxandkingstravel.com goldeneagleluxurytrains.com greatrail.com

Exploring closer to home

While international travel remains popular, the UK is also being rediscovered as a destination for shorter, more flexible escapes. Long summer days are inspiring more travellers to enjoy coastal breaks, countryside escapes and cultural city stays closer to home.

Destinations such as North Yorkshire, Cornwall, the Lake District and Northumberland offer opportunities to enjoy beautiful scenery, independent shops, gardens, galleries and historic landmarks without the stress of long-haul travel. Lake cruises, heritage railways, seaside strolls and outdoor dining all become part of the experience during the warmer months.

Luxury lodge stays, boutique hotels and spa retreats are also proving popular choices for those looking to recharge and unwind in beautiful surroundings.

Travel inspiration: spabreaks.com secretescapes.com

Travelling with family

Multi-generational holidays are also becoming increasingly common, with grandparents, children and grandchildren choosing to travel together and create shared memories.

Cruises, villa holidays and family-friendly resorts offer opportunities for different generations to spend time together while still enjoying their own independence and interests.

These trips offer the opportunity to spend quality time together in ways that busy day-to-day life does not always allow, whether that means exploring a new city, teaching grandchildren to paddleboard or simply enjoying each other’s company.

Travel inspiration: markwarner.co.uk simpsontravel.com

Solo travel continues to grow

Solo travel is another trend continuing to gain

momentum. More people are embracing the freedom that comes with travelling independently, whether following changing circumstances or a desire for adventure.

Group tours, river cruises and escorted holidays can offer a balance of independence and companionship, allowing travellers to meet like-minded people.

Many travel companies now specifically cater for solo travellers, with smaller group experiences and reduced single supplements.

"The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity."

Amelia Earhart

First woman to make a nonstop solo transatlantic flight in 1932.

A different approach to travel

Rather than trying to fit as much as possible into every trip, many travellers are choosing holidays that feel more relaxed, comfortable and enriching. There is a growing appreciation for staying longer in one place and properly experiencing local culture, food and surroundings. Whether it is a river cruise through Europe, a rail journey across the Highlands or a weekend by the coast with family, travel is increasingly about enjoyment, freedom and making the most of time.

Make every visit feel like a getaway

There is something special about having people to stay. We all enjoy the anticipation of a visit, the pleasure of quality time spent together, the stories shared over meals and knowing that those you care about feel comfortable and welcome.

However, hosting can come with its own set of pressures, from preparing spare rooms to coordinating meals and managing the practicalities of overnight stays.

At Adlington Retirement Living communities, visits become less about preparation and more about enjoyment, with an atmosphere where both homeowners and their guests can relax into the occasion and make the most of their time together.

One of the first things many of our homeowners notice after moving is how much more frequently family and friends come to visit. Ann, who moved to The Sidings with Harry in 2022, says: “We’ve had more visitors since we’ve moved here than we ever had before.”

Part of that appeal lies in the experience offered to guests. Rather than staying in a makeshift spare room or a nearby hotel, visitors can enjoy a dedicated guest suite designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Thoughtfully laid

out, these spaces typically include twin beds, a seating area and an en-suite, with some also offering additional features such as a kitchenette or balcony. The result is a relaxing, self-contained suite to stay in, only a short walk from the homeowner’s apartment.

At The Sidings, where two guest suites are available, this flexibility becomes even more valuable when hosting larger gatherings or special occasions. Harry explains: “A friend of ours and her daughter came over for the wedding and stayed in one of the guest suites at The Sidings and my eldest boy and his wife stayed in another suite.”

Elsewhere, each community offers a guest suite that can be booked exclusively for visiting friends and family, providing a straightforward and accessible way to accommodate overnight stays.

Guest suites can be reserved for up to seven nights, with longer stays possible at the discretion of the General Manager, and the pricing structure is clear and inclusive. Whether it is a short visit or an

extended stay, everything is designed to make the process easy, removing the need for complicated arrangements or last-minute adjustments.

Guests also enjoy experiencing the wider environment, from the welcoming communal spaces to the restaurant, gardens and social areas that give each community its distinctive character.

For homeowners, this often changes how they think about their own living space. Without the need to maintain a permanent spare bedroom, apartments can be arranged in ways that better reflect day-to-day living. Some choose to create a dedicated dining area, a study or a hobby room, knowing that when guests visit, comfortable accommodation is already available nearby.

At The Spindles, Angela and Tim chose a three-bedroom apartment that gives them flexibility to host family while still creating spaces for everyday living. “The third bedroom is our study,” Tim explains. “We’ve got a second bedroom with two beds in it, which is also used

for other things such as my wife’s sewing and ironing.”

The experience of a visit also extends beyond the apartment itself. Shared meals in the restaurant become an opportunity to enjoy good food together without the effort of cooking, while coffee lounges and communal areas provide relaxed settings for conversation. Guests can join in with activities, take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the atmosphere of a place where there is always something happening.

Cath, who moved to The Sidings in 2023, says family occasions have become easier to enjoy since moving. “I had my 80th birthday party here. We had a buffet in the homeowners’ lounge and that went very well. All the family came and quite a few friends.”

Families can come together without anyone feeling responsible for organising every detail, allowing time to be spent more freely.

For those travelling from further afield, this ease is particularly valuable. Visits that might once have required careful planning can now be arranged with greater flexibility, making it easier to see one another more often. The presence of a guest suite means that even when multiple family members are visiting at the same time, everyone can be comfortably accommodated without compromise.

Anne, who moved to The Sidings in January 2023, says

the welcoming atmosphere helps people settle in quickly.

“We’re very conscious that when somebody moves in, we want to make them feel welcome. I think that’s how such a very good community has grown here.”

Without the demands of maintaining a larger property or preparing for overnight guests, homeowners are able to enjoy the company rather than managing the logistics. Hosting becomes something to look forward to, rather than something that requires effort.

Friends, too, are often drawn to visit more regularly. The combination of welcoming spaces, good food and a sociable atmosphere creates an environment where people want to return.

Rob, who moved to Broadleaf House in 2025, says: “Being part of the community is a huge plus. The activities really help foster that sense of connection. You can get as involved as you want without feeling pressured.”

Just as homeowners speak about feeling a sense of ease and enjoyment in their daily lives, that same feeling extends to those who come to visit.

Ultimately, it is about creating the right conditions for meaningful time together. Whether it is a family gathering, a visit from grandchildren or a few days spent catching up with old friends, the focus remains on the experience itself rather than the effort behind it.

As Anne puts it:

“It’s the best of both worlds – you have your own home, but you’ve got an added sense of security and you’re not alone.”

Every visit can be effortlessly enjoyable.

Where Were You in 1966?

Memories from Brookfields House, Newcastle-underLyme.

For many people, the summer of 1966 remains unforgettable. England’s World Cup victory brought excitement, tension and celebration, and decades later, people still remember exactly where they were when the final whistle blew.

At Brookfields House in Newcastle-under-Lyme, homeowners have been sharing their memories of that remarkable day. From crowded pubs to family living rooms and even a roadside stop in Spain, each story offers a glimpse into a moment that united so many people.

Margaret:

“We were on what I always call our unofficial honeymoon in Spain. We married the December before, but could not get away then, so we borrowed a van and some camping gear and set off with friends.

“On the day of the final, we stopped at what was really more of a truck stop, just intending to have a quick drink. Then we realised the match was on, so we stayed. The place was full of German truck drivers, and when Germany scored, they all erupted. It was just the four of us quietly watching from the back.

John:

“When England scored, we cheered, and suddenly all the waiters came over to stand with us. They were clearly supporting the underdogs. By the end of the match, they were bringing us drinks on the house and even offered us a free meal to celebrate.

“To make it even funnier, my husband apparently looked a bit like Bobby Charlton, so the waiters kept patting him on the head and calling him ‘Bobby Charlton’. It was such a joyful moment, and one I will never forget.”

From Edinburgh pubs to roadside stops in Spain, these memories show just how widely that historic match was experienced, and how vividly it still lives on today.

Were you there in 1966? Where did you watch England lift the World Cup? We would love to hear your story as we continue to collect memories from across our Adlington communities. email: magazine@adlington.co.uk

“I was in a bar in Edinburgh that July afternoon, and it was absolutely packed. There was smoke in the air, people talking loudly, and most of them cheering for West Germany. As an Englishman, I had to keep my head down and pretend to be neutral. Every time Germany attacked, the place erupted, but when England went forward, the mood turned sour.

“I tried to blend in, nodding along and sipping my drink, but inside I was on edge.

When the final goal went in, I could not help myself. I said ‘Yes!’ Not loudly, but not quietly enough either. The silence around me was instant. I quickly tried to cover it up, but I knew I had given myself away.

“Thirty years later, life took an unexpected turn. I ended up living next door to Gordon Banks, England’s World Cup winning goalkeeper. I often think back to that day and laugh. If only the people in that bar had known.”

Elaine:

“I’ve never really been interested in football, so I didn’t watch the match itself, but I do remember the atmosphere that day. I’d gone to the chippy, and everyone in there was listening to it on the radio - you could feel how important it was. Even if you weren’t following the game, you couldn’t escape it.

“The local chip shop was owned by Gordon Banks’ family, the England goalkeeper, which made it all the more special at the time too.”

Richard:

“1966? I remember it clear as day. I was at home watching the World Cup final on the telly with my dad and ‘Uncle Jack’- he wasn’t really my uncle, just a family friend. The trouble was, Uncle Jack wouldn’t stop talking, and it was driving my dad mad because he was trying to watch the match.

“I ended up getting myself into bother in the middle of it all. When it went to extra time, I ran out to meet my mum, who was on her way back from her cleaning job, and told her that Dad and Uncle Jack had had a row. She waited until the football had finished, then gave my dad a right telling-off. He never said a word about it afterwards, but I knew I was in trouble for telling my mum.”

It's coming 'home'

It’s hard to beat the atmosphere that is created when you watch the World Cup at home with your friends and family. That’s why the key to hosting a World Cup viewing party is all about preparation.

Create The Perfect Set Up

A large lounge is the perfect place to set up your party, with a TV / projector screen so everybody can see clearly. Easy access to hot drinks and a fridge to hold all of your drinks and snacks, makes it the perfect match day party with friends and family.

Bring The Atmosphere

Decorating the room with your chosen country’s flag or your team’s colours can really make a difference. You don’t have to go all out - a few football themed accessories can also go a long way. If you have any football kit that you can wear, now is the perfect time to get it out.

And don't just take it from us:

Homeowners enjoying match day from the comfort of our communities

For many people thinking about downsizing, a bungalow often comes to mind first

It’s an understandable instinct. A bungalow offers single-level living with fewer stairs and the promise of something easier to manage than a larger family home. For decades it has been seen as the natural next step when the house begins to feel a little too big.

But increasingly, many people are discovering that what they really want isn’t just a smaller home, instead it's a simpler life. That’s where modern retirement communities are quietly changing the conversation.

While a bungalow may remove the stairs, it rarely removes the responsibilities that come with running a home. The garden still needs attention, the roof, gutters and windows still require upkeep, security during holidays or winter months can still be a concern, and as the years pass, practical support can still be difficult to arrange when it’s needed.

Retirement apartments approach the idea of downsizing in a different way.

Instead of simply reducing the size of the property, they remove many of the everyday pressures of home ownership

altogether. Maintenance of communal areas and gardens is taken care of, security and on-site teams provide reassurance, socialising spaces mean that life can feel connected rather than isolated.

For many homeowners, the biggest surprise is how much lighter life feels once these responsibilities fall away.

David, who moved to an Adlington community, explained it simply:

“I looked at buying a bungalow but thought ‘Am I going to be doing this again in four years’ time?’ I really didn’t know much about retirement living, and then I came across Adlington Retirement Living.

“If I was talking to somebody who was thinking about moving to a retirement community, I would definitely be positive.”

Rather than moving from house to bungalow and perhaps needing to move again later if circumstances change, retirement living offers a home designed with the future in mind from the very beginning.

That doesn’t mean giving up independence, in fact, many

homeowners say the opposite is true.

With less to manage and more support around them, they find they have greater freedom to enjoy the things they value most. Whether that’s travelling, spending time with family, joining community activities or simply enjoying a peaceful morning coffee without a list of jobs waiting outside the front door.

And for those who love gardens, the pleasure remains. Landscaped grounds are there to enjoy, often with gardening clubs or outdoor spaces shared with neighbours, but without the physical demands that once came with maintaining a large plot.

Downsizing has always been about making life easier.

Today, many people are simply taking that idea one step further, choosing not just a smaller home, but a lifestyle designed to make the years ahead feel lighter, more secure and more enjoyable.

Sometimes the best next step isn’t another house at all. Sometimes, it’s a different way of living altogether.

What's included Bungalow Retirement living community

Single-storey living without stairs

Owner responsible for repairs, upkeep, roof, gutters and exterior

Living space

Single-level living designed for comfort and accessibility and no need for future adaptions

Building and communal maintenance taken care of

Maintenance

Homeowners responsible for maintenance

Standard home security dependent on the individual property

Garden

Landscaped grounds to enjoy, maintained by a gardening team. Private balcony or patio to most apartments

Secure entry systems and on-site team for added reassurance

Security

Neighbours in separate houses

Must arrange privately

May need another move if circumstances change

Community

Independent living with opportunities to socialise with neighbours under the same roof

On-site team and support services available if required

Support if needed

Homes designed to support independent living for years ahead

Future flexibility

Property left unattended

A bungalow changes the shape of your home

Travel and holidays

Lock-up-and-leave convenience and peace of mind

The biggest difference? A retirement apartment changes the enjoyment of your life

Smart moves start now

Five simple steps to a brighter, worry-free

future

There’s something about nicer weather that makes everything feel possible.

Gardens are coming back to life, evenings begin to stretch out, and the thought of change feels less like upheaval and more like opportunity. It’s often at this time of year that those considering a move to a retirement community decide to take their first step. By starting the conversation now, there is time to explore options at a comfortable pace, with the possibility of being settled into a new home before the clocks go back, ready to enjoy a winter without the worry of property upkeep, unexpected repairs, or feeling isolated in the colder months.

Why now?

Moving while still fit and well, rather than waiting for a crisis, is something our homeowners mention time and again.

Gloria, a homeowner at Broadleaf House, puts it simply:

“Move while you are fit enough to enjoy it. The lifestyle is worth every penny.”

Her neighbour Rob agrees: “You keep your independence, you gain companionship, and you shrug off the worry.” And Trevor, a homeowner at The Sidings, echoes that feeling of relief: “My old house needed painting, and I knew that last time it cost nearly £3,000. I needed new decking on the balcony and that was going to be another £10,000. All that worry has been taken away from me now.”

The process of moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right support, it can be straightforward, and even enjoyable.

Five easy steps to a smarter winter

1. Book a tour to start your journey

Everything begins with a visit. Seeing daily life in an Adlington community – the restaurant, the gardens, the people –helps to bring the experience to life. There’s no pressure, just an opportunity to get a feel for the place.

When Frank was considering a move to Brookfields House, a community visit really helped. “One of the homeowners chatted with me over lunch and said, ‘It’s the best thing I ever did – I wish I’d done it years ago.’ I heard that again and again. Nobody regretted it.”

Frank chose a two-bedroom apartment and moved in at the end of September 2024. “Once I moved in, I knew I’d made the right decision. I settled immediately and have made new friends. I have no regrets. It’s been the right thing for me."

2. Bring friends & family to explore

It’s a decision that affects those closest to you too, so bringing them along can make the process feel easier, both emotionally and practically. Margaret, a homeowner at Brookfields House, sat down

with her children before committing: “They were wonderfully supportive. They said, ‘Mum, it’s your life, your money. Enjoy it.’ That gave me confidence.”

3. Appoint a local estate agent to sell your property

For those selling, trusted local agents can be recommended. Part-exchange is also available through a dedicated partner offering a more straightforward route.

David, a retired accountant who chose part exchange when he moved to The Spindles, explains: “It took away all the worry of dealing with a chain. You hear too often about house sales going wrong somewhere in the middle. I didn’t have to worry about that, and the time it saves is precious.”

A faster sale may also attract a discount on the apartment purchase price.

4. Agree the sale with support

Throughout the process, support is available at every stage – from navigating offers to handling paperwork or simply talking things through.

Margaret said: “When I met the sales team here, I thought it sounded amazing. And what I liked was that neither of them did any pressurised selling, despite explaining every detail, and truthfully answering our questions. I thought that was refreshing.”

5. Arrange your move

Support continues right through to moving day. The Senior Move Partnership can help with planning, deciding what to keep, and managing as much or as little of the move as needed. When you are getting ready to move, you’ll get a two-hour consultation free of charge.

Trevor couldn’t speak highly enough of their support: “Sue was absolutely fantastic. I couldn’t have done it without her. She sat with me and made a plan. She measured everything and showed me what would fit where. That was tremendously useful.”

Angela and Tim, homeowners at The Spindles, had a similar experience: “We were at the stage where we just didn’t know where to start on the decluttering. Kimberley came in and went through things systematically. She was here on the day we moved in. While we were having lunch, she was upstairs instructing the removal team where to put everything.”

And when homeowners arrive, additional support from a handyman is available to get pictures hung and curtains up. Sue, who moved to The Woodlands, remembers: “Within two days I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.”

Summer all year round

There’s a sense of freedom that comes with leaving behind the responsibilities of a larger house – the gutters, the garden, the endless maintenance. Communal spaces are kept to a high standard, the environment is warm and well-maintained, and support is always close by if needed.

As Rob puts it: “Service charges are money, of course they are, but weigh that against a leaking roof, gutter cleaning, gardens and security alarms, and it is good value.”

Pam agrees: “The whole idea of this type of independent living is the fact that you don’t have to worry about these things.”

Take your time, but take the first step

There’s no need to make a decision immediately. Time can be taken to enjoy the sunshine and let the idea settle. But for those beginning to think about what life might look like come autumn, taking that first step can make all the difference.

Arranging a visit is often the first step to a brighter, worry-free winter.