ADLINGTON LIFE
Savour the season to reap rewards, reflect and renew
Legacies that reach much further than just a will
Test your knowledge of the big screen
How community brings safety and comfort
Welcome
As the golden light of September settles in, we pause to reflect on how far we’ve come and consider the steps ahead. At Adlington, this season often brings thoughtful conversations about what makes a house a home, and what truly matters in the months to come.
In this issue we take a closer look at the meaningful decisions many of us face in later life, whether that's the practicalities, or the emotional rewards of leaving a legacy beyond bricks and mortar, and we meet homeowners who share how downsizing unlocked a richer way of living.
Wherever you are on your retirement journey, we hope these stories inspire you to look ahead with more confidence.
Contents
04
06
A legacy beyond four walls
Why downsizing can offer more than just space, it can offer purpose
Dr Ed Gladman, Chief Executive Officer
08
Inspired by the big screen
From silver screen classics to whodunnits — how well do you know your movies?
Lessons from the past
The needs of human beings has remained consistent over the years, so where does community now fit?
10
Rent or buy?
Planning your move to retirement living
“I’m more socially active here than I have been for a long time. I’d become totally isolated and an old curmudgeon!”
Read more page 08
Events News
As The Sidings, Lytham, enters the final phase with only a few apartments available, we've made it even easier to move. Prices on selected 2-bedroom apartments have been reduced, and we are offering the final 3-bedroom apartment fully furnished for that truly luxury experience. Plus, if you reserve quickly, our Move for Less offer gives you support with Stamp Duty, Estate Agent, moving and legal costs. ^
Lancashire Belle, Jane Francis, has been performing her wonderful 1940's music across our communities this summer.
Lancashire Belle afternoon tea
Our final audience with the Lancashire Belle concludes at The Spindles this month - make sure you grab your ticket whilst you can.
The Spindles, Menston Thursday 25th September, 2:00pm
Brookfields House turns one
Brookfields House, Newcastle-under-Lyme
Wednesday 24th September
Coffee and cake
The Sidings, Lytham
Wednesday 17th September, 2:00pm
Wednesday 8th October, 2:00pm
The Spindles, Menston Tuesday 7th October. 2pm Tuesday 4th November, 2pm
Brookfields House, Newcastle-under-Lyme
Wednesday 17th September, 10:30am Thursday 16th October, 2.30pm
Broadleaf House, Wylde Green Thursday 18th September, 10:30am Friday 17th October, 2pm
The Newells, Kempston Friday 12th September, 10:30am Thursday 9th October, 10:30am
Radford House open day
Radford House, Exeter
Thursday 18th September, 11am - 3pm
A legacy beyond four walls
When we think of legacy, it often conjures images of financial inheritance or treasured heirlooms. But increasingly, a deeper, more profound form of legacy is emerging. It’s the conscious choice to step into a new chapter, not just for yourself, but for the generations that follow.
Moving out of a long-lived family home and into a purpose-built retirement community can be one of the most powerful and positive decisions of later life. It’s a considerate, almost ethical gesture, freeing up space for younger families, supporting the national housing market, and living a life that continues to inspire.
Helping others thrive
Our homes don’t just serve us; they serve communities and you’re only really a temporary custodian of any property, but many people in later life still live in large homes no longer suited to their needs. Moving into a thoughtfully designed retirement apartment means a family home becomes available for those hoping to grow.
On a practical level, releasing underoccupied homes injects fresh energy into the housing market, which in turn eases the path for younger couples to take their first steps onto the property ladder, and can also boost the legacy of those in later life.
John and Jean, homeowners, reflect on the positive impact they have felt:
“We’ve made friends and I can tell they’re going to be like a second family. We should have moved years ago”
Supporting the national housing ecosystem
Every home that transitions from under-minimum to active occupancy is a small but vital contribution to solving Britain’s housing shortage. With young people struggling to accommodate their growing families due to limited housing, each retirement-focused move becomes a civic act.
Homeowner Anne admits:
“I’ve absolutely done the right thing and probably should have done it a couple of years earlier. I feel as if I’ve joined life again rather than being locked away from it.”
Her words paint a vivid contrast that under-used houses represent homes locked away, whereas occupied retirement apartments represent homes alive with community. Every transition helps unclog the housing pipeline, making way for new families, who then, in time, can create their own legacies.
Passing the intergenerational baton
True legacy isn’t only in what we leave behind, but in how we act, today, for the benefit of others.
The postwar generation built much of Britain’s mid-century suburbs and solid family homes, and now, choosing to trade in that space for something more manageable still contributes powerfully to society’s forward momentum.
It isn’t merely inheritance via assets; it’s inheritance via action.
Living with purpose, community, simplicity and care
There’s a quiet dignity in moving to an environment designed for today’s needs. One where the focus isn’t on endless upkeep but on living well, on relationships, and on quality time, not on maintenance.
Bill and Joan summarise this shift beautifully:
“We lived in a large house, that needed repairs, plus we started wondering if we should answer the door if the doorbell rang late in the evening, and those things becomes a big worry when you’re older.
“ We were also aware that
we were two people in this huge house and that wasn't fair, when there are young families who are house hunting.
"We moved into our old house with our young family, and we were in that house for 46 years. We loved it but all these reasons made us decide about moving.”
A ripple effect worth celebrating
When you do decide to downsize, you trigger a series of positive consequences:
Emotional relief and freedom for you, and perhaps your family, through easier living and less stress.
Opportunity for younger generations when a readymade home becomes available.
A more balanced housing market through better distribution of much-needed properties.
Intergenerational solidarity, which is a gesture of care that crosses familial and societal lines.
Dr. Trevor, living at The Sidings, captures the personal renewal this kind of move offers:
“I’m more socially active here than I have been for a long time. I’d become totally isolated and an old curmudgeon!”
His story isn’t just one of emotional revival,
it’s evidence of how legacy living improves mental health, social cohesion, and well-being.
It’s not just a move, it’s a message.
Choosing to downsize says: “I want to live well, right now, and I want a better chance for those who follow.”
It reshapes your identity, from keeper of the house to giver of opportunity. It multiplies your impact. A thoughtful decision today can signal responsible stewardship to your family and your community.
A legacy doesn’t have to be locked in a will. It can be the intangible ripple that comes from living well and wisely. When you move to a comfortable, maintained, communityminded apartment, you’re not stepping away, you’re stepping forward.
You’re freeing up a home for a young family, and rebalancing the housing market, one thoughtfully sized apartment at a time. That’s a legacy beyond four walls.
Homeowner Margaret gives sound advice on not having to dread a move,
“When it came to downsizing, it was rather an overwhelming challenge as I was very attached to our home, but Adlington gave me valuable support, which was brilliant.”
Inspired by the Big Screen
With this year celebrating the 35th anniversary of the film Pretty Women, it got us wondering about other films that have parallel storylines of often-unexpected happiness, that could perhaps be likened to that of moving to retirement living, and then, let's have some fun with it.
The Thursday Murder Club (2025, Netflix)
“I thought retirement meant slowing down — turns out, it’s just the beginning.”
Plot: Based on Richard Osman’s bestselling novel, this long-awaited adaptation brings together a sharp-witted group of retirees living in a quiet retirement village with a not-so-quiet hobby: solving murders.
With an all-star cast including Dame Helen Mirren and Sir Ben Kingsley, it’s a charming, clever whodunnit that proves life gets even more intriguing after 70.
01 QUESTION: What’s the name of the fictional retirement village where the story begins?
The Best Exotic Marigold
Hotel (2011)
“I thought this isn’t for me, but I found joy and renewal.”
Plot: British retirees move to a run-down hotel expecting luxury but find something far better — new friendships, purpose, and a zest for life with Maggie Smith’s iconic line “Everything will be alright in the end”
02 QUESTION: Where was the hotel located?
Shirley Valentine (1989)
“I thought it was too late for adventure, but I was wrong.”
Plot: A bored Liverpool housewife escapes to Greece and rediscovers who she really is. Inspired by real-life Beecham House for retired musicians in the UK, Dustin Hoffman made his directorial debut at age 75.
03 QUESTION: Who were the two main actors?
Enchanted April
“In a new environment unexpected happiness sparked.”
Plot: Based on a 1922 novel by Elizabeth von Arnim, four English women rent a villa in Italy and are transformed by sunshine, serenity, and selfreflection. Following its release, it was nominated for three Academy Awards and praised for its lush visuals.
04 QUESTION: Which year was it released in the UK? Was it 1981 / 1991 / 2001
Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)
“I feared change, but it was my healing.”
Plot: A recently divorced writer impulsively buys a villa in Tuscany and rebuilds her life. Following its release, tourism to Cortona, Italy, skyrocketed.
05 QUESTION: One of the main actors received a Golden Globe nomination for their role. Was it Diane Lane, Sandra Oh or Raoul Bova?
Quartet (2012)
“I didn’t expect to find harmony in retirement, but I did.”
Plot: Starring Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay, Billy Connolly, and Pauline Collins, retired opera singers live in a country house for retired musicians — comedy and reconciliation ensue when a famous diva joins.
06 QUESTION: Who played the diva?
Calendar Girls (2003)
“We’re not done yet. Not even close.”
Plot: WI women of a certain age pose nude for a charity calendar and upend everyone’s expectations, with the main characters played by Helen Mirren, Julie Walters and Penelope Wilton.
07 QUESTION: Which pop icon co-wrote the music and lyrics of the musical inspired by the
September Sunshine
Indian
Summers
As autumn arrives, we’re often surprised by warm, settled weather after early chills or misty mornings. Characterised by golden light, clear skies, and unseasonably warm days, often after
While once rare, these lateseason warm spells are becoming more common due to climate change. The Met Office reports rising September temperatures over recent decades, making warm autumns more likely.
So, if leaves are falling but you’re still in sunglasses chances are, it’s an Indian Summer.
Why Are Indian Summers Increasing?
The UK is warming at about 0.25 °C per decade. From 2015–2024, average temperatures were 1.24 °C warmer than 1961–1990. While July and August are usually hottest, recent years like 2006 and 2023 show that September can now rival or surpass them.
Notable Indian Summers:
September 2006: The warmest autumn on record in Central England, with September’s average temperature (~12.7 °C) surpassing summer's with daily highs exceeding 21°C.
September 2023: The UK experienced its first recorded 7-day heatwave with temperatures above 30 °C.
the first frost, Indian Summers typically occur in late September or October. The term likely dates back to 18th-century North America, when Native American tribes used the milder conditions for hunting.
SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE CHOICES TO HELP CLIMATE CHANGE
Travel Green: Walk, cycle, or use public transport. Choose electric/hybrid cars if needed.
Eat Sustainably: Eat more plantbased meals, buy local and seasonal produce, and reduce food waste.
Fly Less: Choose trains over planes for short trips and support local tourism.
Benefits of retirement living:
Shared amenities and right-sized homes reduce energy use.
Sustainability for the future with wildlife-friendly landscaping, EV charging points and low-energy lighting.
Save Energy at Home: Use energy-efficient appliances, turn off unused devices, and wash clothes at lower temperatures.
Use Smart Tech: Install smart thermostats, lighting, and timers to cut unnecessary energy use.
Dining in an on-site restaurant helps manage food usage more efficiently.
Smart home tech Thermostats, zoned heating and motion lights reduce energy use.
Improved insulation, triple glazing, and green energy systems (like solar panels) support energy savings.
Lessons from the past:
Safety still starts with community
In 1665, the Great Plague swept through the UK, taking lives and forcing people behind closed doors. Streets emptied, fear spread faster than facts, and for many, isolation became the greatest danger of all.
Fast forward 360 years, and while we’ve come a long way in science and understanding, the rise of new Covid strains reminds us that vulnerability is still real, and so is the need for human connection and care, especially in later life.
Support beyond your front door
The difference today? We no longer face uncertainty alone.
In a retirement community, support doesn’t end at your four walls. It’s woven into every hallway and lounge, with 24-7 on-site teams, neighbours who check in on you, and shared spaces that are safe, sociable, and maintained with care.
Homeowner Pat explained:
“The whole set up here is so well run. I just can’t believe how settled I feel now. If I could have handpicked all the people who work here, they would be this team. When I came back from hospital they popped in, gave me a hug and said they’d been so worried about me. Two of the waitresses sent me a card and a box of biscuits.
“Our neighbours are all lovely too. One lady did a traybake and another gave me a plant. They’re just lovely people, both staff and my neighbours.”
Whether it’s help with prescriptions, someone to share a coffee with, or just the comfort of knowing you’re not facing whatever life throws your way alone, community living offers both protection and peace of mind, without losing your independence. Because staying safe in later life shouldn’t mean staying isolated, it can mean staying connected, supported, and free to enjoy every day, come what may, and nowadays with the power of being able to make a liberating choice.
From isolation to connection
Dr Trevor, homeowner at The Sidings, shares the positivity in his decision to move:
“If I was talking to somebody considering a move to a retirement community, I’d say that it relieves you of an enormous amount of stress and adds a lot of positive social interaction. Another benefit is knowing that you’re going to be safe. Quite a few older people have very little self-confidence left and I think that’s bolstered by the staff here being so caring and thoughtful.
“I am so, so pleased I moved here. I’ve got back to my normal self. I’m not so insular... There’s a strong sense of community and I’ve made some good new friends.”
A safe step forward
The past reminds us that community has always been our greatest strength in times of uncertainty, not just for protection, but for purpose, laughter, and everyday joy.
Fellow doctor and homeowner Cath mirrors Trevor’s sentiment:
“Having somebody available 24-hours a day is extremely important, so you know there’s help on hand if required and I find that very reassuring. It’s good for my son and daughter too as they know there is somebody around should I need any assistance. It takes the weight off all our shoulders.”
Reflecting back to the first Covid lockdown five years ago, John and Marcia rejoice how being homeowners with support and good neighbours has been perfect:
“We’ve got to know almost all of our neighbours and they’re very nice people. There were about 10 of us here at the start of the 2020 lockdown and we used to go and sit in the sun or greet each other walking around enjoying the gardens.
When John and Marcia first moved in, the lockdown meant that the table-service restaurant at The Cottons was temporarily closed, so the catering team created delicious, cooked meals and delivered them to Homeowners’ front doors.
“It’s much better here than it would have been in our previous house during lockdown. We have these beautiful gardens to walk around and to admire and a team on hand 24-7 should we need them. We’re very happy here.”
At Adlington, our retirement communities are built on those same values: care, connection, and the confidence that comes from knowing you’re never alone.
Whether you’re seeking more peace of mind, fewer responsibilities, or simply the freedom to enjoy later life with good neighbours and gentle support, there’s a place for you here.
Because retirement isn’t about retreating, it’s about choosing a life that’s not only safe, but wonderfully rich. And it could begin with just one conversation.
Planning your move
When planning a move to a retirement community, one of the first questions people often ask is: Should I rent or buy? It’s a fair consideration, especially if you’ve spent decades as a homeowner and are now reassessing your next chapter, whether that means reinvesting equity, simplifying finances, or prioritising flexibility.
Both routes have their benefits, and understanding how they align with your lifestyle, goals, and financial outlook is key to making the right choice for you.
The power of belonging
Lifestyle, not just location
A move to a retirement community is about gaining more from life; m ore convenience, more time for hobbies, and more opportunities to connect with others.
Many of our homeowners tell us that joining a like-minded community helped them regain their independence, their confidence, and their social lives.
“We’ll sit, chat, share a bottle of wine. Everyone here is a friend.” Frank, homeowner
It’s not just about where you live, but how you live, and who you share it with. While ownership may offer a stronger sense of permanence for some, renting might suit those looking for short-term flexibility, or who simply prefer not to tie up capital. In both scenarios, the design of the community, the shared amenities, and a supportive team available can offer reassurance and companionship.
A 2023 ProMatura study, carried out on behalf of ARCO (Associated Retirement Community Operators), showed that across the UK retirement living sector over 90% of residents said they were happy with their decision to move, and the majority reported feeling healthier, more active, and more connected as a result.
The right move for you
The best decision is the one that reflects your priorities. You might be looking for a fresh start without the commitment of ownership or you may prefer to invest in a home where everything is truly yours. Whichever path you choose, what matters most is that it supports your well-being, independence, and lifestyle.
Our team is always happy to help you explore the options available, so you can make the right move with confidence.
Can retirement properties hold their value like family homes?
With demand for senior housing growing and limited land available, well-designed retirement apartments are becoming increasingly precious. To help protect long-term value for those who choose to buy, when the time comes to sell, we take a two-fold approach:
Capped contributions:
Homeowners contribute a capped, value-linked sum to maintain the community’s quality and resale appeal. This replaces traditional ground rent in our new developments. There are sometimes two options where you can agree this contribution at the point of purchase or you can contribute once the property is sold. Either way you can be reassured that the building your apartment is within will be as attractive to a buyer in the future as it was for you. Whilst this contribution may feel expensive, it is worth comparing the quality that is maintained with an Adlington community versus others, where the community becomes tired and dated over time and therefore harder to sell.
Expert resales: Launched in 2023, Adlington Estates is our dedicated service managing pre-loved apartment sales with the expertise of a traditional estate agent but tailored specifically to retirement living.
Tim Crichton, Adlington Estates resales manager, said: “At the heart of everything we do is the desire to make the process better for our homeowners, for their families, and for our new homeowners who purchase the apartments. Our in-depth knowledge, empathy and expertise creates a better experience for all our clients.”
During their first 18 months since Tim launched the service his team achieved, on average, 97% of the asking price and a 6.23% increase in the value of the apartments sold.
Learn more about our approach and success stories on our website.
QUIZ ANSWERS - 01 Coopers Chase | 02 India. The real hotel used in Khempur, Rajasthan, has retained its rustic charm and you can still enjoy tea in the courtyard | 03 Tom Conti and Pauline Collins BAFTA, Golden Globe, and Oscar-nominated. | 04 1991 | 05 Diane Lane. | 06 Maggie Smith. | 07 Gary Barlow (of Take That) with Tim Firth. He also co-wrote ‘Finding Neverland’ for Broadway in 2015 based on the Peter Pan story of J.M. Barrie and worked with Andrew Lloyd Webber to create the royal anthem ‘Sing’ for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
Understand the bigger picture about costs
We know that additional monthly charges, like Service and Well-being can be unfamiliar at first, especially if you’ve just sold a mortgagefree property, but those charges provide real value:
On-site support teams , available 24/7 giving complete peace of mind for you and loved ones.
Security and peace of mind when travelling or unwell, knowing there is always someone around to help out.
Beautiful communal lounges , landscaped gardens and restaurants as spaces to socialise, if you choose.
Organised events and activities, from film nights to fitness to keep you physically and mentally engaged.
Maintenance of the building and grounds is covered, taking away all of those worries.
More space and facilities to entertain family and friends including a guest suite.
One, two and three-bedroom retirement living apartments for sale
The Newells, Kempston