As twinkling lights brighten the paths and the scent of mince pies drifts through the air, there’s a special feeling around Charters Village at Christmas. It’s a time for laughter, friendship, and cherished traditions, a season that truly reflects the spirit of community living.
At Retirement Villages, life is all about freedom, the freedom to live life your way, surrounded by like-minded people who make every day brighter. At Christmas, that freedom takes on an even more heart-warming glow.
Residents can celebrate however they choose, whether travelling to see family, hosting festive get-togethers with friends, or simply enjoying the comfort of their beautifully decorated homes. The beauty of the RVG lifestyle is that you shape your Christmas, your way.
Here independence comes with a sense of belonging, the peace of mind that your home is safe if you’re away visiting loved ones, and the joy of returning to a community that’s alive with Christmas spirit. From carol singing and festive lunches to quiet moments over a hot chocolate, residents are free to take part in as much or as little as they wish.
It’s independence, but never isolation, a time to celebrate personal freedom wrapped in the warmth of community.
Marie sums it up perfectly:
What I like most about this place is it’s independent living. It is just like living in an ordinary street, an ordinary community, but with support you hardly even notice and we have the extra security here. It has changed my life totally.
Traditions that Shine Bright
For Marie, Christmas is truly a time for family, warmth, and nostalgia.
Marie loves the way the village comes alive, from the Christmas lunch where everyone dresses their festive best to the sparkling decorations that make the whole community feel magical. At home, she continues beloved traditions, putting up her Christmas tree and lights, and gathering with her daughter for a post-lunch game of Scrabble, a tradition passed down from her mother.
She also fondly recalls childhood trips to see Father Christmas at John Lewis and the joy of walking along high streets glowing with Christmas lights. Now, she cherishes her Christmas walks with family after lunch, weather permitting of course.
With her active social life and close friendships in the village, Marie plays a big part in making the season memorable for everyone.
The staff here really go the extra mile, and that’s what makes it feel so special.
Family, Music, and Making Memories
For Eileen, Christmas at Charters Village is a time to celebrate both old traditions and new friendships.
Eileen still decorates her home with care, keeping the joyful spirit of her childhood alive, a childhood spent with her musical Scottish family, gathered around her grandmother’s piano, singing and dancing the night away. Later, she created new traditions with her husband and children in the Cayman Islands, where Christmas Day was filled with sunshine and laughter.
Now, life at Charters Village brings that same warmth. With festive events, decorations, and a lively social calendar, there’s always something to enjoy. “There’s never a dull moment here,” she says with a smile. “Nigel and all the other staff always go above and beyond to make it special for everyone.”
For me, Christmas is all about family, friends, and laughter. I love having everyone together catching up over coffee and joining in all the festive activities.
A Community That Feels Like Family
At Charters Village, Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, it’s a celebration of connection. Residents come together to share meals, laughter, and stories that weave a sense of belonging that lasts long after the decorations come down.
That’s the beauty of life in an RVG community: independence, friendship, and the chance to keep creating joyful moments, not just at Christmas, but every day of the year.
Because here, community isn’t something you move into. It’s something you become a part of.