As we look toward the year ahead, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we’ve achieved together despite an extremely challenging economic backdrop and to share my optimism for what 2026 will bring
Over the past year, our villages have continued to flourish We’ve strengthened our sense of community, and introduced events and initiatives that brought people together in meaningful ways It’s been a year defined by connection and progress, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve created.
Welcome
Thank you for your involvement, your feedback, and the energy you bring to village life Your enthusiasm is what makes each Audley community so unique, and it continues to inspire the work we do
As we step into 2026, we have much to look forward to including an expanded programme of events designed to bring even more enjoyment and enrichment to your daily life. Above all, our focus remains on ensuring that every Audley village offers not only a beautiful place to live, but a place where you can live well
On behalf of everyone at Audley, I wish you and your families a joyful festive season and a happy, healthy New Year. Here’s to another inspiring and fulfilling year together in 2026
Warm regards,
Nick Sanderson CEO, Audley Group
A warm welcome to winter flavours
DISCOVER THE WARMTH OF THE SEASON AT AUDLEY RESTAURANTS THIS WINTER.
Alongside our tempting festive menus, our winter à la carte offering is full of comforting classics and elegant seasonal dishes Start with delights such as soup of the day, ham and chicken terrine, crab arancini or portobello mushroom tartare before enjoying new hearty favourites including calves’ liver with bacon and mash, fish pie or chicken Milanese
Mains feature roast loin of cod, pumpkin ravioli, slow-cooked pork belly, mushroom and truffle risotto and a vibrant sweet potato, spinach and chickpea curry.
Finish with indulgent desserts, from Black Forest délice to treacle and ginger tart, gooseberry posset or our December-only Christmas pudding
BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
BLACK FOREST DELICE WITH BLOOD ORANGE SORBET
CRAB ARANCINI
Chef Arsenica Cocean is a familiar face to owners at Willicombe Park, especially through her much-loved and inspiring monthly cookery demonstrations, where her creativity and warmth have made her a firm favourite with owners
During her summer break, Arsenica returned to her home country of Romania and took part in a national TV cooking competition, Chefi la Cuţite - a MasterChef-style contest attracting almost 1,500 entrants
Signed up by a friend, she never imagined where it might lead Her standout dish - a delicate profiterole with vanilla cremeux, mascarpone, raspberry, apple, currant and thyme - captivated the judges Their praise was immediate and heartfelt: “How delicate these are,” observed Chef Orlando Zaharia, carefully analysing the plate “It’s on another level, higher than last season!” added Chef Richard Abou Zaki, known for his exactingness
Out of the entire field, only four chefs received the coveted Golden Knife and Arsenica was one of them For her, the award represents a milestone in both her personal and professional journey: “This is a great achievement for me and the work I have put in, a validation I needed ”
This is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to her passion, skill and dedication to her craft We are incredibly proud to have Arsenica as part of the Audley culinary team and look forward to celebrating her continued success!
“Sometimes life offers you things you never dared to
A day in the life
Fanica Matias, Receptionist
Audley Stanbridge Earls
For many owners at Audley Stanbridge Earls, the first warm smile they see each day belongs to Receptionist Fanica Matias. Known for her kindness, calm efficiency, and unwavering willingness to help, Fanica has become an essential part of daily life at the village.
STARTING THE DAY EARLY
“I always leave home early and make sure I arrive at least 20–30 minutes before my shift begins,” she explains Whether she’s on an early 8am start or the later 12pm shift, she gives herself plenty of time to settle in and prepare for the day ahead.
MORNING DUTIES
On early shifts, Fanica begins by taking handover from the night porter - catching up on anything that happened overnight and checking whether there are any events or situations that require attention
“I review the diary and emails, print off restaurant bookings for the kitchen and F&B team, do the banking, and start the unobtrusive list,” she says It’s a rhythm she knows wellone that keeps the village running smoothly behind the scenes
AFTERNOON SUPPORT
When Fanica is on the late shift, her first task is to catch up with the receptionist on duty “I check what was discussed at the morning meeting and familiarise myself with the day’s events and bookings,” she says Afternoons often include supporting in the bistro, followed by catching up on admin tasks
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
Helping owners is where Fanica truly shines. Whether it’s assisting with phones, TVs, computers, or advising how to handle a scammer, she approaches every request with patience and compassion
“In five years, I’ve helped everyone with something at least once,” she laughs.
One moment that has stayed with both her and an owner happened early in her career
“Not long after I started, Mrs B realised she didn’t have a bed to sleep on after maintenance had left I couldn’t let her sleep on a mattress, especially with her back problem, so I picked up the tools and put the bed together myself ”
Years later, Mrs B still tells that story to new owners and Fanica still smiles whenever she recalls it
“At the end of the day, the smile I put on people’s faces is my reward. I rest my head on the pillow knowing I did something good ”
WHAT SHE LOVES MOST
Every day brings something new
“I’ve never been bored in five years,” she says. “I love interacting with owners, helping them, making them happy I consider this village my second big family ”
THE CHALLENGES
While she loves her role, she admits the hardest part is when some owners focus only on the negatives
“But even then,” she says kindly, “I try to listen and help however I can.”
LIFE BEYOND RECEPTION
Outside of work, Fanica shares her creative, energetic spirit with her loved ones - especially her daughter, Ramona, who works as an accountant for a major insurance company.
Fanica’s passions include travelling, sport, long walks in nature, concerts, and reading She describes herself as someone who brings creativity and enthusiasm into everything she does, whether at work or in her personal life.
Fanica lives by a simple but powerful life philosophy: “Be present in the present.”
Christmas
FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS ACROSS OUR VILAGES
A roundup of magical moments this festive season!
From enchanting Christmas light to bustling Christmas fairs, and creative afternoons wreath making, or some festive entertainment Audley villages have been brimming with joy and sparkle across the country.
Enjoy our gallery of Christmas highlights
DELICIOUS TREATS AT ELLERSLIE
SHIPLAKE MEADOWS
CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT NIGHTINGALE PLACE
STANBRIDGE EARLS’S KNIT AND NATTER GROUP AT THE CHRISTMAS FAIR
SUNNINGDALE PARK LIGHTS SWITCH ON
COOPER’S HILL
SANTA ARRIVES AT CHALFONT DENE
INGLEWOOD WREATHMAKING AT SCARCROFT PARK
FESTIVE CREATIV AT ITS BEST.
This year we invited owners to design the Audley Group Christmas card, and the beautiful entries made judging a challenge.
Congratulations to Mr Shaun Metcalfe at Audley Fairmile This winter scene perfectly captures the spirit of the season. You should receive your card from your team soon!
ENTRIES...
CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL THE ENTRIES
A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE
VERENA CLOSS, CHALFONT DENE
MICHELLE DIAS, COOPER’S HILL
MRS BROOKFIELD, CLEVEDON
TREVOR WILLIAMS, WYCLIFFE PARK
Celebrating the exceptional dedication, hard work, and compassion shown by our team members - The Audley Spirit Awards are an annual tradition to spotlight individuals who go above and beyond, embodying the very best of Audley’s values.
Earlier this year each village held their own event (as well as the central event) so even more team members could be included and rewarded - you might have seen a lot of sparkle in the village that day!
As well as performance driven awards, values awards we also had the peoples choice awards which were voted for by peers and colleagues
We’ve highlighted a few winners but click the link below to discover the full winner list and spot winners from your village team
SEE ALL THE WINNERS
VILLAGE OF THE YEAR MAYFIELD WATFORD
THE SCALING HEIGHTS OF THE ARTICHOKE WITH MRS CHAWNER
Sharing your stories...
The 50 year old artichoke.
BRIDGET CHAWNER, AUDLEY FAIRMILE
I decided to be a flower arranger and trained at the Constance Spry Flower School It was situated in St Johns Wood, North London I LOVED it!
I lived in a flat in South Kensington which was great fun. The Flower School moved to Marylebone Lane which was much more centrally based. As all flower arrangers know we need interesting foliage for our own arrangements. This is where my interest in artichoke leaves began
I married in 1961 and after living in a flat for 2 years, we moved to a house with a garden in Epsom Where I decided to grow my own plant I bought a ‘Slip’ about 6” to 8” high from a lady who advertised in many gardening magazines She was called Lady Rhyl. I don’t remember how much I paid for it but I hadn’t much spare cash. I planted it and it grew in my first garden for 4 years.
We later moved to a larger house with a lovely garden. It was transplanted and it was very happy It grew to 8ft Then when we moved again I gained permission and moved both the Wisteria (grown from seed) and the Artichoke to Audley Fairmile Both are still alive but the now famous artichoke is possibly as much as 12ft high! It is SO happy here at Audley Fairmile, as I am too!
Coming home to St Elphin’s Park.
JILL AND STEVEN SCHMIDT TELL THE STORY OF THEIR RETURN TO AUDLEY ST ELPHIN’S PARK - AN HONEST REFLECTION ON WHAT COMMUNITY REALLY MEANS AND WHY ST ELPHIN’S CONTINUES TO FEEL LIKE HOME.
JILL AND STEVEN SCHMIDT, ST ELPHINS PARK
Our time at Audley St Elphin’s Park started in 2014 when we moved into a cottage on Crompton Close with our little dog Ozzie The cottage was perfect for us as we also had a garden area out back for Ozzie
We had many happy get-togethers there with friends and neighbours and enjoyed the social life within the village. In 2021 due to circumstances, we put our cottage on the market and moved nearer to our family
We were hoping for the same community spirit in our new home such as we had experienced at St Elphin’s We soon realised however that we were in the wrong place: the majority of people living in the neighbourhood were working, had families and were not that interested in an older couple (us). We became isolated and found that we needed to literally get out of the house and search out social activities.
The Christmas holiday of 2024 was the perfect time to reflect on what we needed for our personal futures After some discussion we both said that what we wanted was to return to St Elphin’s Park
In the January 2025 we contacted an estate agent and put the house on the market. Fortunate for us, the first couple viewing our house came back for a second look-see and put in an offer. We then contacted Jennifer Gregory (salesperson at St Elphin’s Park) to see what might be on offer to us We fell in love with a bungalow that was up for sale, made an offer, and started the ball rolling August 2025 saw us moving into our new home at Audley St Elphin’s Park and, putting it simply, we love it
We have been asked by several owners why we moved back. Our reply has been that we had to move away from St Elphin’s Park to appreciate what is here, and we certainly do!
STEVEN, JILL AND
THE
WHEN THEY FIRST MOVED TO ST ELPHIN’S PARK IN 2014
RIGHT: MOVING HOME AGAIN IN AUGUST 2025
LEFT:
OZZIE
DOG,
In 1971 King Charles was at Royal Air Force, Cranwell in Lincolnshire being taught how to fly a Jet Provost Aeroplane - he was a 21 years old Prince then My late husband Group Captain Gerald Pendred was Station Commander, in charge of flying there It was a very interesting time for all of us My late mother, Mrs Cynthia Gange came to stay, as was usual wherever we went to live.
His Royal Highness, Prince Charles, had a very heavy schedule and everyone wanted to meet him while he was at Cranwell. He had two portraits painted during his time there And these were painted in our house The first was by a charming Irishman by the name of Derek Hill He had painted portraits of many members of the Royal Family While painting his portrait of Prince Charles I remember that he had trouble painting his hand as it rested on the top of a chair
Conversations through the butlers hatchway.
FEW CAN SAY A YOUNG PRINCE CHARLES ONCE LUNCHED IN THEIR HOME - YET FOR ANNE PENDRED, IT WAS JUST ANOTHER UNFORGETTABLE DAY AT RAF CRANWELL
MRS PENDRED
One day I had a phone call from my husband saying that he was bringing Prince Charles and Derek Hill to lunch at 12 30 "Anything will do" was his advice "You can prepare something suitable, I know "
My mother was staying with us and I had very shy little plump maid, Mrs Dewey, We three soon managed to get together a salad luncheon. Mrs Dewey, who was very shy, always held her hand over her face when we had guests. I was trying to calm her as we were serving lunch at table when the hatchway doors were suddenly flung open and there stood my mother "How do you do, your Royal Highness?" asked my mother My husband quickly took charge of the situation and turned to HRH "May I introduce my mother-in-law, your Highness?" Prince Charles was charmed by her - they had quite a conversation Suddenly the hatchway doors were closed. My mother had decided when to end the conversation.
My husband was beside himself at this breach of protocol But it didn't end there The artist said "Let's go into the garden " He had a small camera and took a picture of Prince Charles, Dick Johns (Flying Instructor), my mother Cynthia, myself and my husband I have the photograph in my sitting room here at Audley Binswood
A REMINISCENCE BY ANNE PENDRED, AUDLEY BINSWOOD
Love Audley?
SPREAD THE WORD AND EARN £2,000!
DON’T KEEP IT A SECRET - LET ALL YOUR FRIENDS KNOW AND INVITE THEM FOR A TOUR!
Introduce a friend or family member and when they purchase a property at an Audley village, you and your friend can each choose a £2,000 gift voucher from one of the below.
Audley Villages credit, John Lewis/Waitrose gift card, Virgin gift card, or Neptune gift card
FIND OUT MORE
AUDLEY CARE FEATURE:
GOING THE EXTRA MILE: HOW WILLICOMBE PARK’S
CARE TEAM MADE A WEDDING UNFORGETTABLE.
Since moving to Willicombe Park in 2019, Mrs Newport has become a cherished member of the community As her care needs have increased, our team has continued to support her in living life to the fullest and this summer, that support meant the world When Mrs Newport received the invitation to her granddaughter’s wedding, she was determined to be there for the special day Our team rallied around, ensuring everything was in place to make the occasion both comfortable and memorable
WEDDING READY
Over the weekend, the team helped Mrs Newport prepare for the ceremony One styled her hair, while another did her makeup Finally, she was safely escorted to the wedding and back home again.
Thanks to the team’s kindness, skill, and dedication, Mrs Newport enjoyed an unforgettable day surrounded by family The joy on both her face and her granddaughter’s is clear to see in the photos - a wonderful reminder of the difference truly personalised care can make
MRS NEWPORT AND THE HAPPY COUPLE
Your wellbeing is our priority.
Stay safe, stay warm, and let us help you make the most of winter.
The results are in...
ANNUAL OWNERS’ SATISFACTION SURVEY SUMMARY OF RESULTS 2025
This year we had one of our highest response rates to date, with feedback representing the views of almost three-quarters of all Owners Thank you to everyone who took the time to share your thoughts and experiences
You should have received your villages results – If you haven’t seen these please speak with reception From these results village management teams and owners’ forums will work together to translate the results into action plans - building on what works well and focusing on the areas that matter most to you
FOCUS AREAS FOR 2026
Restaurant and Bistro. Feedback has highlighted opportunities to improve food quality, menu variety, healthier options, and consistency from visit to visit.
Grounds & gardens. Improving the reliability and standard of garden maintenance will be a central focus to ensure better seasonal appearances and upkeep
Improving consistency across villages. Ensuring the high level of experience and service is consistently delivered across all villages remains a priority
Communication and engagement. Improving satisfaction with communicationincluding management drop-ins, newsletters, and the events calendar , supported by ongoing enhancements to the Owners’ App
Stay with us
Why not make the most of your exclusive discounted guest suite rates available at Audley and Mayfield Villages? Stay in comfort, enjoy the exclusive club facilities, dine at the restaurant or bistro, and explore the charm of the local area
Find out more about our stunning locations and luxury guest suites here: www.audleyvillages.co.uk/guestsuites
Don’t forget to let reception know if you are going away on a holiday!
FIND OUT MORE
SHARE YOUR STORY
As 2026 begins, we’re asking you to share stories and goals for the year ahead Whether you’re planning to move more, spend more time with loved ones, or simply enjoy life’s little moments, your answers can help spark ideas and inspiration for others
A new year is the perfect time to reflect on what makes you feel your best From favourite New Year’s Eve memories to your goals for the months ahead, we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Use the QR code to take the survey and tell us about your New Year’s resolutions and your most memorable New Year’s Eve
Audley Headley Court
A SHORT WALK THROUGH HISTORY...
Work is beginning at Audley Headley Court, our new village near Leatherhead, Surrey The site has a rich history, starting as an Elizabethan farmhouse bought by the Cunliffe family in 1879 and it stayed within the family until the Second World War.
It was occupied from 1940 until 1945 by the Canadian Army as their headquarters Troops were accommodated in Nissen huts and other buildings on the estate, as well as elsewhere in the local area.
At the close of the War, Headley Court continued its link with the Armed Forces and in 1953 opened as one of three medical rehabilitation units in the UK
WINSTON CHURCHILL WITH KEY ALLIED MILITARY AND POLITICAL LEADERS IN 1940 AT HEADLEY COURT
CGI IMAGE OF THE RESTORED MAIN HOUSE AT HEADLEY COURT
It was used as a rehabilitation centre for injured members of the British Armed Forces between 1985 and 2018. In 2012 a new rehabilitation complex was consented and funding was raised through Help for Heroes. In 2014 the Minister of Defence announced the services provided by Headley Court would be transferred to a new centre to be developed at Stanford Hall, funded by the Duke of Westminster
During Covid-19 Headley Court was home to NHS Seacole Centre, named in honour of the pioneering nurse Mary Seacole, and provided specialist rehabilitation care for patients who were recovering from Covid-19
Now in Audley’s care, the Grade II listed historic mansion house will be meticulously restored The sales team has just started on site and we are looking forward to the village opening in 2027; when we will encourage you to take advantage of the guest suite and come to see what we are sure will be another stunning village in the Audley collection.
“Headley Court has such a remarkable legacy, and we ’ re incredibly proud to be writing its next chapter. We look forward to welcoming our first owners to a village that honours its history while offering a vibrant, modern way of living.”
NICK SANDERSON, CEO OF AUDLEY GROUP
HEADLEY COURT 1891
AERIAL PHOTO FROM 1950'S
THE TREE LINED "LONG WALK" WAS THE IDEAL TRAINING RUN FOR PATIENTS
The Audley Foundation Update
Find out more about The Audley Foundation at www audleyfoundation org uk
Chatty bench #4 - Calthorpe Estate
This summer The Audley Foundation installed its fourth Chatty Bench at The Calthorpe Estate, Edgbaston, Birmingham Chatty Benches help make small steps towards easing the problem of social isolation and loneliness, as well as support the charity’s mission statement to “make a lasting difference to the lives of older people”
Mr Haydn Cooper, CEO of The Calthorpe Estate, invited local dignitaries, office workers, residents, and management team from Audley St George’s Place, to the official opening ceremony of the garden and the installation of our bench
READ MORE
Village Name of Charity
Binswood
Chalfont Dene
Guide Dogs for the Blind, The Myton Hospices & Warwickshire and Northampton Air Ambulance Service
Chiltern Music Therapy & Age Concern GX Plus CIO
Clevedon Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice & Dementia UK
Cooper's Hill MIND Retail Shop
Egham
Woking and Sam Beare Hospice & St Johns’ Church
Ellerslie St Richard's Hospice Foundation
Fairmile Princess Alice Hospice
Inglewood Alzheimer's Research UK
Mote House Age UK Maidstone, Sevenoaks & Tonbridge
Nightingale Place
Friends of Clapham Common, Age UK Wandsworth & Royal Trinity Hospice
Redwood St Peter's Hospice
St Elphin's Park Ashgate Hospice
St George's Place Birmingham Hospice
Stanbridge Earls Mountbatten Hampshire
Sunningdale Park Thames Hospice
Willicombe Park Hospice in the Weald
Wycliffe Park South Bucks Hospice
Our villages chosen charities
Each village proudly partners with one or more local charities close to the hearts of their owners and teams Many have chosen to support their local hospice, reflecting the strong community connections and shared commitment to compassionate care
Foundation Dinner 2025
Last month, we hosted the third Audley Foundation Dinner at Audley Nightingale Place This special evening brought together supporters and generous sponsors whose contributions are making a real difference to our partner charities.
Our speakers, Anne Foster (Audley Owner and Trustee) and Professor Martin Green (CEO of Care England and Patron of the Care Workers’ Charity), delivered truly inspiring talks.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, and to our sponsors whose support is i l bl T th ’
RENEW, REFRESH, RE-ENERGISE:
WHY THE NEW YEAR IS THE PERFECT TIME TO START PERSONAL TRAINING
As we step into a brand-new year, many of us feel that familiar pull toward renewal and a desire to invest a little more time in our wellbeing, rediscover our energy, and set positive intentions At Audley Club, wellness isn’t just a goal; it’s a lifestyle. And one of the most effective ways to embrace a healthier, more active routine is through personal training
WHY PERSONAL TRAINING?
Whether you’re already active or just beginning your fitness journey, personal training offers tailored support that helps you get the most from every session Here are just a few reasons why you should consider it:
1 A PERSONAL PROGRAMME BUILT AROUND YOU
Everyone joins the gym with different goals, whether improving strength, increasing mobility, managing weight, boosting confidence, or simply staying active and independent. Bespoke programmes that reflect your needs, your pace, and your preferences No cookie-cutter routines - just thoughtful, personalised guidance
2 MOTIVATION THAT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE
Starting something new is exciting… sticking with it is where many people struggle. With a personal trainer, every session brings encouragement, accountability, and genuine human connection It’s the perfect way to stay committed, especially through the cold winter months when motivation is low.
3 SAFE, SUPPORTED EXERCISE
Our team specialise in working with those who want to maintain strength, balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular health safely They will ensure you’re using the right techniques, protecting your joints, and progressing steadily. Peace of mind is part of the service.
4 REAL, MEASURABLE RESULTS
People who train with a PT often report improved energy levels, better sleep, reduced stiffness, and greater confidence in everyday movement. Many even discover a newfound enjoyment of fitness - a bonus that transforms wellbeing far beyond the gym
A NEW YEAR FILLED WITH POSSIBILITY.
The turn of the year is a natural moment to reflect, reset, and refocus Whether your goal is to feel stronger, improve balance, regain mobility after an injury, or simply enjoy a more active lifestyle, personal training can be the spark that sets everything in motion Why not give yourself the gift of renewed wellness this year?
Ready to take the first step?
Our team is here to help you begin (or enhance) your fitness journey in a way that feels enjoyable, safe, and sustainable why not book a consultation and discover how tailored support can help you feel your best in 2025
YOUR HEALTH. YOUR GOALS. YOUR YEAR.
Tips for refreshing your wellness routine
CHOOSE A SOUNDTRACK
Music boosts mood, motivates workouts, calms the mind, and evokes memories Turn on your favourite station or playlist, letting music support your routine and bring real enjoyment.
FIND A WORKOUT BUDDY
Exercising with a friend boosts motivation and enjoyment. A shared gym date keeps you accountable, and research shows people succeed more with partners than alone
START SMALL
Set realistic goals and start small, gradual change works Think of your health as evolution, not resolution Build on what you enjoy, and the benefits will quickly follow.
GET OUT IN THE FRESH AIR!
Even short bursts of activity boost health and mood at any age A simple walk in the fresh air offers immediate benefits, alongside longer-term improvements.
TRACK YOUR EFFORTS
Fitness trackers make staying active motivating and fun. Seeing your steps or calories burned can boost commitment and even inspire friendly step challenges with neighbours
