retired couple walking

Retirement marks a new chapter in life – one that should be filled with a sense of calm, community, and the opportunity to engage in activities that bring fulfilment. As retirees increasingly seek alternatives to traditional housing, park homes have emerged as a hugely appealing option. In this blog, we’ll explore why residential retirement homes are a great way to spend your retirement as you escape the hustle and bustle to begin a new chapter.

1.   Sense of community

In day to day life, it’s become commonplace not to converse with our neighbours – perhaps we don’t even know their names. One of the standout features of park home living is the strong sense of community that residents often experience. Connections really do matter! Research has shown that a sense of community felt by people over 60 can make a hugely positive impact on their quality of life and self-esteem.

Unlike large, impersonal neighbourhoods, park home communities are often close-knit, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents. Shared amenities, communal spaces, and organised social events create opportunities for retirees to connect with like-minded individuals, forming lasting friendships that can really enrich your retirement years.

2.   Great locations

Choosing the right location for retirement is crucial, with the UK offering some of the most beautiful countryside spots in the world. Our park homes are situated in picturesque settings, located close to charming villages, towns and coastlines, giving you the best of both worlds. These locations provide respite from busy life, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful retirement right on nature’s doorstep.

3.   Something new to try

Retirement doesn’t mean slowing down; in fact, it’s the perfect time to embrace new hobbies and activities – life doesn’t have to completely slow down! Our park home communities often offer a huge range of options to keep residents engaged and active. From cycling to joining a new club nearby, there’s always something to do!

4.   Stunning walking trails

One of the most cherished activities, especially for nature enthusiasts, is the availability of great walks, perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike. Our rural locations are a great encouragement to staying active or exploring new surroundings. These walks not only contribute to physical wellbeing but also provide moments of reflection and connection with nature! What’s more, our parks are pet friendly so you can bring your best friend along with you! In a previous blog, we recommended some stunning dog walks located within a short distance of each park – be sure to check them out!

 

Woman walking a dog

 

So, are park homes a good idea for retirement?

Choosing where to spend your retirement years is a significant decision, and our retirement park homes across Scotland and England offer a compelling option for those seeking a blend of community, location, and engaging activities. The sense of belonging, the beauty of the surroundings, and the joy of activities like great walks make park home living an attractive choice if you’re looking to embrace a fulfilling retirement lifestyle. Be sure to consider the possibilities that residential parks bring – we have a number of luxury park homes for sale in different locations currently available to view now. Get started to

Dog Friendly Parks

We all love to have our beloved pets with us – they’re part of the family! Surprisingly, some parks in the UK don’t allow pets to reside, but sharing special time with loved ones is one of the best ways to make the most of your free time. Here at Laird Estates, we’re dog friendly – in fact, we allow pets on all of our parks, so you can rest assured that they will be able to come along with you. We’re sure they’ll enjoy their time as much as you.

For most dog owners, free time is often spent enjoying the great outdoors together. With beautiful coastal settings and stunning scenery surrounding our parks, we’re on hand to help when it comes to choosing the best walking trails so that you and your dog get the most out of living on site.

1.   Craufurdland Castle Trails, Ayrshire

17 min drive from both Bluebell Heights and Cunninghamhead Estate

Just a stone’s throw away from the peaceful surroundings of Blue Heights and Cunninghamhead Estate on the outskirts of Kilmarnock is Craufurdland Castle. A rebuilt tower house originating in the 16th century, Craufurdland Castle is home to a large estate set amongst beautiful woodland.

Gentle

If you’re looking to take things a bit easier, you can try out the 1.6 mile circuit (2.57km) through the woodland, cutting through a number of additional footpaths, making the walk extendable if you wish to go further. Check out the directions which allow you to download the route or follow it on your mobile phone.

Challenging

Looking for more of a challenge? The Craufurdland countryside walk through the woodland, past the fishing loch over the ford before heading over public access farmland back towards the Estate is an enjoyable route with great views and minor elevation.

2.   Brown Moss Nature Reserve, Shropshire

11 min drive from Grindley Brook and 20 mins from Warren Park

Brown Moss is a quaint gem east of the A41, just a short drive away from both Grindley Brook and Warren Park, giving you the opportunity to enjoy this wonderful walk from a couple of our sites. Just over 5km with minimal elevation along characterful paths and woodland trails, this is a pleasant walk for most to enjoy – considered moderately challenging in places. Starting at Brown Moss, follow a series of footpaths to complete the circular route around the reserve – a great way to spend 1-2 hours, depending on pace!

Woodland trails

3.   Nantwich Lake, Cheshire

9 min drive from Fairview Park

At the edge of Nantwich town, you’ll find a stunning lake, free to park up, just a short drive from our Fairview Park. With plenty of wildlife, you can enjoy the views that the natural surroundings have to offer on your very doorstep – though it may be best to keep your dog on a lead. The walk will take around 1 to 2 hours, covering approx. 3km (2 miles) following the path to guide you.

4.   Delamere Forest Walk, Cheshire

38 min drive from Fairview Park

If you’re looking to venture slightly further out from Fairview Park, there are a number of trails surrounding Delamere Forest worth exploring – both on and off road. With a picnic area, and shop/café, there’s plenty to do to chill out with your pooch or family after/during a walk. Why not make a day of it?

5.   Stoney Middleton to Eyam loop, Derbyshire

3 min drive/14 min walk from Peaklands Park

Located in the quaint village of Stoney Middleton, nestled in the heart of the Derbyshire Dales, Peaklands Park is a haven for countryside dog walks. If you are planning to travel to this route by car, a great starting place is to park at St Martin’s Church or in the lay by on the A623 on the western side of the village (details on how to find the lay by in the official route guide). The route is the perfect mix of history and open landscape, meandering past the Roman Baths, towards the River Derwent and Froggatt Bridge, through scenic woodland, and finally towards the historic village of Eyam – the home of the Plague when it first arrived in the UK in 1665. Visiting this historical place allows you to get a real feel for the story that unfolded over 300 years ago. There’s even a museum to tell the story – but that may be a whole new day out in itself. At just over 4 miles, you’re in for a treat with this educational route!

Our Parks

If you aren’t already a resident here with us at Laird Estates, we have a number of dog-friendly residential park homes for sale situated at our sites across England and Scotland. You’re sure to have a wonderful time enjoying your new surroundings – and what better way than to enjoy spending time with your four legged friend by exploring the local area. Get in touch with us today to discuss your options.

Heatherbank Retirement Village Scotland

Call Heatherbank Country Park your home. Read about the benefits of retirement village living at Heatherbank, one of our retirement villages in Scotland.

Heatherbank Park Home Estate

We have an Open Day at Heatherbank Country Park. On Saturday 3rd June, our Open Day takes place between 10am and 4pm, and we’d be very happy to welcome you.

Laird Estates Group

Park Home Estates in England & Scotland

Laird Estates Group Holdings Limited

Warren Park
Warrant Road
Market Drayton
Shropshire, TF9 2DZ

Telephone 0330 165 8896

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