We recently spent 24 hours at Homewood Grove, a retirement village in Chertsey, and went in with very few expectations. By the time we left, it had completely reshaped our view of what retirement living can look like. Here’s an honest look at the experience, what stood out, and some thoughts on whether this lifestyle could be the right fit.
As we approach our 60s, retirement is no longer a distant concept but something we’re beginning to actively consider. Rangeford Villages offers homes for those aged 60+, and what struck us most is how flexible and inclusive that feels. Residents ranged from early 60s professionals still working to those well into their 80s—each enjoying the lifestyle in their own way.
First Impressions: More Boutique Hotel Than Retirement Living
Arriving at Homewood Grove, the setting immediately feels special. The village sits within historic walled grounds, giving it charm and character from the outset. Parking is simple and accessible, with thoughtful touches like disabled spaces and a drop-off area right at the entrance.
Step inside, and the atmosphere shifts to something closer to a high-end hotel than a traditional retirement setting. The reception is bright, modern, and welcoming, and the staff couldn’t have been more friendly. From there, the space flows naturally into a restaurant, bar, lounge, and private dining areas, all opening onto beautifully maintained gardens and a sunny terrace.
It’s the kind of place where indoor and outdoor living blend effortlessly—something we really appreciated.
The Apartments: Stylish, Spacious, and Future-Ready
We stayed in a two-bedroom show apartment, and it genuinely impressed us. The layout was generous, the interiors elegant, and everything felt carefully designed for comfort now and practicality later.
Across the development, there are one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, all with features like:
- Step-free access and wide doorways
- Walk-in showers
- Underfloor heating
- Secure entry systems
- Ample storage, including fitted wardrobes
Ground-floor homes open onto private patios, while upper floors offer balconies. Despite the practical features, nothing feels clinical or “age-specific”—just modern, calm, and thoughtfully designed living spaces.
Location: Quiet Yet Connected
Homewood Grove offers a peaceful environment without feeling isolated. Chertsey is close by for everyday needs, and larger towns are within easy reach. The village also provides transport options, including a shuttle service and even access to a driver for appointments.
There’s a strong sense of independence here, supported by thoughtful conveniences that make daily life easier.
Facilities and Community: A Balance That Works
One of the biggest considerations with retirement living is community—and Homewood Grove gets this balance right.
Your apartment is entirely your own private space, but step outside and there’s a vibrant social environment if you want it. During our stay, we joined a lively Race Night that brought together residents and their families of all ages.
Standout facilities include:
- Restaurant, bar, and lounge spaces
- Cinema room and owners’ lounge
- Swimming pool, gym, sauna, and steam room
- Hair and beauty salon
- Village shop and guest suites
- Gardening spaces and social clubs
There’s also a clear effort to keep the environment inclusive and engaging, without ever feeling overwhelming or obligatory.
Costs and Practical Considerations
Like any major life decision, moving to a retirement village comes with financial considerations. Alongside the property purchase, there’s a monthly community fee that covers maintenance, staffing, amenities, and services.
This includes:
- 24/7 emergency support
- Access to wellness programs and activities
- Transport services
- Maintenance of communal areas
- Guest accommodation and more
Additional support services—such as housekeeping, personal care, or meal assistance—are also available if needed. The flexibility here is reassuring, especially for planning ahead.
Who Is This Lifestyle For?
What became clear during our visit is that there’s no “perfect age” to make this move. It’s more about mindset and priorities.
A retirement village like Homewood Grove may suit you if:
- You want to simplify life and reduce maintenance
- You value independence but like the idea of support nearby
- You’re thinking ahead rather than reacting to a crisis
- You enjoy having amenities and social options close to home
- You want to stay connected and avoid isolation later on
On the other hand, if you prefer complete solitude or wouldn’t use shared facilities, it might not feel like the right fit.
Final Thoughts
Our time at Homewood Grove challenged many assumptions about retirement living. It felt less like a step back and more like a lifestyle upgrade—one that combines comfort, community, and peace of mind.
Ultimately, it’s a deeply personal decision. But seeing it firsthand made one thing clear: when done right, retirement living isn’t about slowing down—it’s about creating space to live well, on your own terms.
