Charles Lodge residents ‘dig in’ thanks to gardening donation from Churchill Living

Churchill Living has unveiled a brand-new garden shed at Charles Lodge in Evesham, alongside a generous donation of gardening tools, plants and pots - giving new residents at the development everything they need to make the landscaped gardens their own.

For many people, the thought of moving into an apartment brings with it the assumption that a much-loved hobby like gardening will have to be left behind. At Charles Lodge, that now couldn't be further from the truth. The development's beautiful communal gardens offer a shared space to plant, potter and take pride in, without any of the upkeep that can come with maintaining a large garden alone.

With the new shed now in place to store tools safely, and a fresh supply of plants, pots and hanging baskets to get started with, residents at Charles Lodge have everything they need to continue enjoying gardening as a hobby, but with the support of their neighbours.

Beyond its practical benefits, the donation gives residents a reason to come together outdoors and experience the many wellbeing and mental health benefits of gardening and being outside in the fresh air – not to mention the opportunity to meet with friends and enjoy a cup of tea surrounded by the garden they've helped to grow. It's a small addition that is already making a big difference to daily life at the Lodge.

David Meacham, divisional sales and marketing director for Churchill Living, comments: “Moving to a retirement apartment shouldn't mean giving up the things you love, and for so many of our residents, that includes their garden. Our shared gardens are there for everyone at Charles Lodge to enjoy as their own, and by donating the shed, tools and plants, we hope we've made it even easier for them to get outside and keep doing what they love - together.”

Charles Lodge comprises of 49 self-contained one- and two-bedroom apartments and an exclusive collection of seven two-bedroom retirement cottages (known as Bewick Court), featuring colour-coordinated kitchens with integrated appliances, and balconies on select apartments.

Designed with ease of living for the over 60s in mind, those living at Charles Lodge and Bewick Court benefit from a welcoming communal lounge where neighbours can relax and socialise, secure video entry systems, and a full-time Lodge Manager alongside 24-hour Careline support for extra peace of mind.

Nestled in the traditional market town of Evesham, Charles Lodge is surrounded by a variety of amenities just a short distance from the development. With public transport links available nearby, residents have everything they need on their doorstep, including a Waitrose, pharmacy, doctor’s surgery and a high street boasting a selection of independent retailers and cosy cafés.

Evesham is a hive of activity, so those wanting to stay active in their retirement can get involved in a variety of nature walks around the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, visit local farmers markets hosted every Tuesday and Saturday and travel through the apple orchards and country parks on the steam railway.