Things to do in Cheshire: Home to Western and Fairview

Lyme Park - showing a stately home and lake

Cheshire is one of the highlight regions of England, bordering north Wales and providing a captivating blend of rich history, stunning landscapes and cultural delights for visitors to experience. There are ancient castles and stately homes, vibrant cities with historic attractions, quaint villages and picturesque countryside. In short, there is something worthwhile to enchant anyone taking time out from our parks. Whether you’re at Western and looking for things to do in Sandbach or at Fairview and looking for things to do near Nantwich, Cheshire has plenty to keep you occupied. In this edition of our blog we’ll delve into a plethora of things to do in Cheshire – a must-visit destination.

Historic landmarks

If looking at old buildings to see how life might have been in eras past is your sort of thing, then you’ll find Cheshire has some real treasure to offer. There are wonderful locations where you can explore slices of British history.

Chester Cathedral

This Grade I listed masterpiece of medieval architecture boasts a rich history dating back more than a thousand years, with construction having taken place between the 10th and 16th centuries. All of the premier styles of medieval architecture, including Norman and Perpendicular, are present in the building, so it is visually very impressive. Visitors can marvel at its intricate Gothic design, explore the interiors and, in particular, enjoy the stunning stained glass windows. It is also possible to climb the tower and get a panoramic view of the city.

Norton Priory

This site, in Norton, Runcorn, is one of the most important monastic locations in Cheshire, and is the most excavated monastic site in Europe. Priory ruins date from the 12th to 16th centuries, and there is also an 18th-century country house. During your visit you can explore tranquil gardens and woodland walks, and marvel at the extensive museum collections (which include thousands of medieval artefacts, Roman remains and Tudor portraits). There is a free car park, a gift shop and a very pleasant café to enjoy.

Natural beauty

Delamere Forest

When you’re looking for a pastoral location to enjoy, a place where you can truly get away from the hustle and bustle, then Delamere Forest is perfect. There are miles of scenic trails with impressive towering trees and an abundance of wildlife to spot, including rare species such as red squirrels and adders. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will really enjoy Delamere. There are two routes marked out within the forest, so this is a suitable location for cyclists or mountain bikers.

Tatton Park

Set amidst approximately a thousand acres of parkland, Tatton Park near Knutsford is a haven for wildlife and a delight for visitors of all ages. It’s possible to explore the historic mansion and a working farm, wander through meticulously manicured gardens or enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the serene mere. You may even spot the resident deer herd during exploration of the park’s expansive grounds. There are over a hundred events and activities organised each year, including markets, trails and family fun activity days, so this is a great spot to keep everyone amused or entertain your family visitors.

Cultural gems

Lion Salt Works

Sited in the village of Marston, close to Northwich, Lion Salt Works opened in 2015 as a tourist attraction and has won several awards. Interactive exhibits and guided tours tell the fascinating story of salt production, the industry that once completely shaped Cheshire’s industrial, financial and social landscapes, here at one of the last remaining open-pan salt-making sites in the world.

Jodrell Bank

The iconic Lovell Telescope is sited here at Jodrell Bank, world famous observatory first established just after the end of World War II. Now a visitor attraction as well as a working scientific site, Jodrell Bank offers interactive exhibits where you can learn about the latest discoveries in space science, and marvel at the sheer scale of this world-renowned facility. There are often stargazing events which are worth signing up for, where expert astronomers guide visitors through the wonders of the night sky, and the Jodrell Bank compound sometimes stages rock concerts – in recent years performers have include Kraftwerk, New Order, Public Service Broadcasting and Bjork.

Famous connections

Adlington Hall

Rumour has long had it that the playwright Williams Shakespeare himself may have performed at the Adlington Hall during one of his travels, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this historic estate’s storied past. These days, you can explore the stunning interiors and beautifully manicured gardens, or you can lose yourself imagining the opulent gatherings and celebrations that have taken place within its walls over the centuries – maybe with old Bill in attendance too!

Lyme Park

Fans of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice will recognise Lyme Park as the filming location for Pemberley, Mr. Darcy’s grand estate, in the 1995 BBC television series. Wander through the interiors and grounds and relive iconic moments from the adaptation. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to take a formal tour, where knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into Lyme Park’s history and connections to the Austen family.

Culinary delights

Cheshire cheese

No visit to Cheshire would be complete without sampling its most famous food export – Cheshire cheese. This crumbly delight is made from locally sourced milk and matured to perfection. Visit one of the county’s many farmers’ markets or delis to sample a selection of artisanal cheeses and discover the unique flavours and textures that make Cheshire cheese so special.

In conclusion, whether you are at Western in Sandbach or Fairview near Nantwich, there are plenty of attractions and activities a little further afield in Cheshire which will suit every interest and taste. From historic landmarks and natural wonders to cultural gems and culinary delights, this is the county with it all.

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Join us at one of our open days in 2024!

Looking to find your dream retirement home? Here at Laird Estates, we have 8 stunning residential parks across England and Scotland. We’re happy to announce that we are running a series of open days at a number of our parks throughout 2024.

Our open days run from 10am to 4pm on our designated event days and are a fantastic opportunity to explore the location of the park, get a feel for the park environment, and ask plenty of questions – we’re here to help! Current park homes for sale offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, situated in large plots with spacious balconies and modern interiors. You’ll get no better feel than coming to take a look at our homes in person!

Whether you are looking for a golf course, beach or busy town nearby for days out, our parks are ideally situated for you to enjoy everything that the local area has to offer. Why not stop off to visit some local attractions on your way home! You may wish to find out more about our Easy Move scheme if you haven’t already, which aims to take the stress out of your hands with a simple part exchange of your old home. We have a presentation of the scheme during our open days, giving you lots of information and the opportunity to begin the process.

You can also enjoy our selection of refreshments including tea, coffee and snacks. Free car parking is available on site, and directions on how to find us are available through the link to each of our parks below. We look forward to seeing you! Contact us today to book your appointment.

NEXT EVENTS:

Saturday 11th May

Heatherbank Country Park

East Renfrewshire

G78 3AT

Saturday 25th May

Western Park

Cheshire

CW11 4NW

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Buying a Residential Park Home: The Definitive Guide

Signing a contract with a pen

Park home life can be incredibly rewarding, particularly for those who want to retain a community feel when they move to somewhere new, but also want the physical convenience a park home provides. There are around 2,500 residential parks in the UK, and this is becoming an increasingly popular way for people to live, especially when looking to enjoy a quiet retirement.

What do I need to know when buying a park home?

The process of buying a park home differs from the process you go through to buy a traditional property (in other words, a house). In this edition of our blog, we present the definitive guide to buying a park home – from the definition of a park home to the rules on residential sites, providing answers to any of the common questions you might have.

What is a park home?

For those who are unaware of, or unsure of, what a park home actually is, a brief explanation may prove valuable. A park home is a detached prefabricated home which is permanently located on a private site. Typically, park homes are manufactured and then placed in configuration on plots of land owned by a private company or local authority, forming a village environment. Buying a park home means you own the building, though the land it sits on will be owned by the operator of the park and you will pay site fees to them, which will cover things general maintenance.

There are specific maximum dimensions which must be adhered to for a property to be classed as a park home. They are:

  • Length: 65 feet (approx. 20 metres)
  • Width: 22 feet (approx. 8 metres)
  • Height: 10 feet (internal floor to ceiling)

Is a park home right for me?

This is a very important question to ask yourself. Buying a park home and relocating will have a massive impact on your life, so you should not make any decision lightly. Buying a residential home represents a commitment of significant finances. Park homes for over 50s are very popular – though, while some individuals find joy in park living, others may discover that it does not align with their requirements. However, for the vast majority it is a quality way of life which exceeds initial expectations. The unique features of park homes – such as their affordability, ease of maintenance, integration into natural surroundings, and reduced size – make them a significantly attractive option. Before committing to purchasing a residential park home, it’s crucial to evaluate personal motivations and determine whether they justify the decision to move.

Choosing the right location

Some buyers may already have a preferred area to which they would prefer to relocate, and others may be attracted to the idea of park living but not have a specific location in mind. The first step is to identify a park you like and that you feel you could live at. This could be partially determined by the geography of the park – say, closeness to family, familiar towns it is near, or proximity to the seaside etc.

It’s essential to make a physical visit to any potential park

Your choice of park may be informed by what is on offer or even just the feeling you get when viewing for the first time. Factors such as the number of homes on site, the facilities available and the quality of the local environment will all help you to decide on a ‘winner’ from your list of possible parks. It’s also good to strike up conversations with current residents when you visit, as they will fill you in on the very best things about living on the park. They may even offer useful information about the facilities, as well as tips about things you can do in the nearby towns.

Other considerations

Also essential will be other considerations which will play a role in the decision-making process:

  1. Size and space

If you’re looking to free yourself up from your possessions and downsize your living environment to something which is more manageable, then a park home can be a great alternative to the more traditional move of buying a bungalow or retirement flat. This reduction in square footage of living space makes park homes easier to maintain – as well as easier to clean and cheaper to heat.

  • Cost

Some buyers will be happy to spend more money to get a totally new property, whereas others will work to a lower budget or prefer to conserve some of their cash by moving into an existing home. In the vast number of cases, the cost of a park home is the biggest factor in deciding whether to go new or pre-owned.

  • Speed of acquisition

Buying a park home can be a relatively speedy process – certainly much quicker than the purchase of a bricks and mortar home. The only real exception to this is if you are buying pre-owned and the existing owner requires a lengthier moving-out period.

  • Ease of moving

Using Laird’s exceptional Easy Move scheme, you can be out of your bricks and mortar house and into your park home in super-quick time. Easy Move streamlines the whole process and removes much of the hassle. It involves choosing one of our park homes, commissioning a valuation of your bricks and mortar house, us making an offer based on it, agreeing an exchange and completion, and you moving in to one of the park homes located on one of our eight sites. We also offer a personalised removal service, in partnership, and you can book yours for a discounted rate. The whole process is incredibly simple.

  • Running costs

Owning a park home is similar to any other home, in that regular upkeep is required – including cleaning and utilities checks. It’s a good idea to check out how these costs compare to those on your current home before you decide to make the move.

  • Site rules and regulations

When considering a potential purchase, it’s important to be aware of the rules and regulations on the park you have in mind. Adhering to them helps create a smooth and happy living experience for all. Likely rules and regulations on a park include things like residency period allowances, park owner responsibilities and obligations – and these should be thoroughly examined in advance so that you know what you are signing up for.

If you’re thinking about making the move into beautiful scenery and a community vibe, we look forward to hearing from you to arrange an appointment to view any one of our eight parks and the available homes on it. As we mentioned earlier in this blog, we also operate the Easy Move scheme, making the whole process of selling your house and buying a park home incredibly simple and fuss free. If you have any further queries don’t hesitate to contact us – as ever we’ll be more than happy to assist. In no time, you can be living the dream!

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Making Your Retirement Seamless: Our Easy Move Part Exchange Scheme

Couple sit on the floor between new boxes used to move house

It’s well known that selling up and moving home can be a difficult decision. In a recent survey almost half of respondents (47%) experienced increased stress levels as a result. An incredible 41% of adults suffered anxiety, 31% experienced sleep deprivation and 25% had arguments with their partner over the whole moving process. Coupled with retirement – an era of your life when you look to relieve all stresses and strains – it’s obvious that a hassle-free way to move home would be the ideal solution to a common problem.

Laird Estates has come up with that perfect solution! We offer a simple Easy Move scheme to help you make the transition, involving a part exchange of your old home for your new Laird Estates park home. In this brief edition of our blog we’ll explain more about our Easy Move scheme – and before you know it, all the stress of relocation will completely melt away!

How It Works

Find the right Laird Estates park

The first step is deciding that you want to move in to one of Laird Estates’ residential park homes, and the second is deciding which park suits your needs the best. Our eight parks have each been designed with care so that they make the most of their superb location. There’s a calm village ambience, so each park is friendly, whilst remaining peaceful and quiet. Set in picturesque countryside, these park homes for retirees are conveniently located for visits to (and the essential amenities of) their nearby towns. You can find out a little more about each park by clicking on the individual parks, below.

Choose your retirement park home

The next step is to choose from one of our wonderful show homes or express your interest in a new plot, and order the home of your choice. At Laird Estates we always have an excellent selection of brand-new homes for sale, ready for immediate occupation. Once you have made your choice, two local estate agents or surveyors will view your existing property and submit a report, at no cost to you.

The offer: How long does it take to buy a park home?

Using the information provided by the estate agent or surveyors, we will aim to issue you with a formal offer within 48 hours of the reports. Once you’ve received this offer, there is no charge or obligation on your part to proceed.

Do I need a solicitor when buying a park home?

If you do decide to accept our offer, then solicitors are instructed. If you don’t have your own solicitor, then we can provide one from our panel of solicitors, and if this is the case we will also pay your legal fees. The sale and purchase will proceed to the exchange of contracts, and completion will be agreed for your preferred date. At this point you’re free to move into your new park home! Buying a park home really is that simple.

What are the benefits of the Easy Move scheme?

This Easy Move scheme from Laird Estates is a very straightforward and speedy solution to the problems inherent in moving home and changing your lifestyle.

  • Financial

From a financial perspective, you will have price certainty – both on your new Laird Estates park home, and on the sale of your existing property. There are no estate agents to deal with (other than briefly, at the point of making a valuation on your home), so there are no estate agent fees to pay, nor solicitors and stamp duty.

  • Reassurance

By using the Easy Move scheme you will avoid all sorts of other potential problems that can occur when moving home in the standard fashion. There will be no time wasters just wanting a peek around your home, and no complaints about what is ‘wrong’ with it.

  • Simplicity

You will also completely avoid the disappointment of a house sale falling through or a buyer chain collapsing – as once the deal for your new Laird Estates park home is made, it’s definitely yours. The process is so simple. We will agree a completion date to suit you and to coincide with the availability of your new Laird Estates home, and the speed of exchange through this whole process means you will be living in it and enjoying your new lifestyle sooner rather than later.

  • Removals (on request)

Part of the Easy Move scheme’s aim is to completely remove the stress of the whole scenario for you, so we also offer a personalised removal service in partnership with Ballards, specialists in the removal field. You can now book your removal service with them, through us, at a discounted rate. They even offer a handyman service so that any difficult furniture can be dismantled and reassembled in your new location. We don’t take any commission for this introduction.

How do I go about sorting out Easy Move?

It’s very simple to get the ball rolling, once you have decided that park home living here at Laird Estates is for you and that you’d like to sell up and move. Simply give us a call (on 01630 638285) and we can discuss how our fantastic Easy Move scheme can make your life so much simpler! Before you know it you’ll be enjoying a calm and peaceful village lifestyle, having avoided all of that potential stress of moving home.

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Park Home Living: The Perfect Retirement Community

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

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Explore Our Dog-Friendly Residential Parks

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.

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Every little helps!

peaklands

Sue Hollingshead finds out more about the living support provided to residents by a big-hearted park operator…

The owners of Laird Estates Laird Estates have a passion for ensuring their residents have the best quality lifestyle available and actively look to support them in many aspects

of their daily lives. That also extends to the current cost of living crisis with the company supporting residents financially across all their parks. For example, Laird Estates has introduced a scheme that has provided residents with £10 a month off their electricity bills throughout 2023 – equal to £120 for each household.

Bill Laird Jnr explained that it was simply the company’s way of ‘trying to help,’ which is not only a brilliant attitude, but also a marvellous approach for a business to have towards its long-term customers.

“The £10 off our electricity bill each month has been tremendous. It has been a really big help. We are well looked after by Laird Estates.”

  • Brian Nield, a resident at Peaklands Park, on the scheme

 

Behind the scenes

This is just one area where Laird Estates has aimed to ‘make a difference’. Behind the scenes, there are several other areas that the operator has also been working on, preferring not to publicise them all. Laird Estates also aims to support staff members; again, this is something that can be found across all its parks. In January, for instance, the company gave staff a bonus, which was paid at the beginning of the year and was equal to 50 per cent of their monthly wage.

What a lovely touch, providing staff with a reward for their commitment, but ultimately aimed at being supportive within the current cost of living challenges.

Energy supplies

Last summer Laird Estates transferred the bottled gas supply over to residents to manage. However, before doing that they negotiated with suppliers for the best price possible, to ensure that residents were getting the best deal available. With regards to electricity rates, as there is one supplier for the park, Laird also negotiated for the best supplier, so residents were again getting the best possible price.

The future looks bright

Laird Estates has 30 years of experience in the sector, currently owning seven quality residential parks. Heatherbank Country Park and Cunninghamhead Estate are in Scotland. Fairview Park is in Cheshire, Peaklands Park is in Derbyshire, with Warren Park and Grindley Brook in Shropshire. Bluebell Park in Scotland is a brand new development currently being developed and will be available from 2025. Moving forward Laird Estates is actively looking to increase its portfolio of parks over the coming years.

Owner of Laird Estates stands proudly in front of a residential home

Bill Laird Jnr (pictured above) and his Dad, Bill Snr, really do go the extra mile to help the residents across all of their developments.

Innovative approach

Bill Laird Snr and his son Bill Jnr, have a very positive and innovative approach to the management of their parks. Little touches like making sure they visit their parks regularly to be on-hand should residents wish to discuss anything are always appreciated. They are always only a phone call away, but making sure they visit creates the lovely community that exists on their developments.

Laird Estate parks demonstrate modern standards of quality with homes from key manufacturers, landscaping throughout, block paving and options for a shed if required. All the parks also boast great community spirit and are pet-friendly too.

With the company’s innovative attitude, it is no surprise to know they are actively working towards creating parks that will help build a sustainable future. This includes investigating the impact of how solar panels might be of benefit to their residents, while also currently installing electric car charging points across their parks.

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Exploring Shropshire: Home to Warren Park and Grindley Brook

You can find two of the seven Laird residential parks in the west Midlands of England. Both Grindley Brookand Warren Park are estates packed with luxury homes and sited close to a whole host of wonderful things to do in and around Shropshire. Both Laird locations have their own particular appeal for residents (for example, Grindley Park features park homes for the over 50s only). But in this edition of our blog we’re focusing on things outside of the parks which increase their attractiveness: Places of interest, places of activity, visitor draws and so on. Things to do in Shropshire!

 

Ironbridge Gorge:

The iconic Iron Bridge over the Severn was the first bridge in the world to be made of cast iron, and was erected in 1779. The picturesque area around the bridge gets its name from the landmark structure, and it’s a truly wonderful spot to appreciate both the natural world and the triumphs of early industrial age engineering. In 1709 iron was first smelted in close-by Coalbrookdale using coke as a fuel instead of charcoal, which then led to commercial iron being produced on an enormous scale. As a consequence, Ironbridge Gorge is sometimes said to be the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, and the bridge is a significant physical marker in our country’s history. 

An exhibition in the former toll house on the south side tells the story of iron in the region, the bridge itself and the surrounding area (which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site). There are scenic riverbanks, side valleys and pleasant woods to explore, and a climb to the Rotunda lookout point offers a fantastic view of the gorge and of the bridge itself (which is also free to walk across).

Blists Hill Victorian Town:

If you want to step back in time and see how folks lived in the 19th-century there are a handful of terrific sites in England – with Beamish (near Durham) and Blists Hill (near Telford) topping the list. Though Blists Hill deals exclusively with the past, it has briefly been the site of some futuristic science fiction – the BBC TV series Doctor Who filmed the story The Mark Of The Rani here in the 1980s, and some of the spots used during that production will be instantly recognisable to fans. 

Sited where a brick and tile works, blast furnaces and coal, iron and fire clay mines once stood, Blists Hill has now been open for fifty years as a living museum, and its continually growing recreation of a Victorian town has proved enduringly popular. It’s a great spot to visit and dip right into the past.

Pontcysyllte Aquaduct:

Another incredible feat of design and civil engineering construction is this stunning aqueduct, located five miles north of Oswestry (just a tad over the Welsh border). Pontcysyllte Aquaduct, which took ten years to build and has been in operation since 1805, is sometimes referred to as the ‘stream in the sky’. It stands 126 feet above ground level, stretches for 336 yards and is a navigable part of the Llangollen Canal system, carrying it across the River Dee below. Comprising of 18 stone arches and a cast iron structure on top, the aqueduct offers a 15-minute route for walkers but it’s more of an authentic experience to go across by boat (there are a couple of local companies offering trips)!

Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World:

The last couple of places we’ve mentioned have been historic – so how about somewhere to visit that’s prehistoric? Just outside the town of Telford is Hoorassic World, part of a popular family run zoo nestling in 32 acres of woodland and paddocks. This is a really terrific place to take the grandkids as they’ll be overjoyed to experience many species of dinosaur up close and in seemingly natural habitat – including the fearsome T-Rex. You can even buy a VIP experience where you accompany a ranger around the park in a vehicle similar to those in the film Jurassic Park. The rest of the zoo is absolutely fantastic, too, including big cats, wolves, exotic birds and more, all kept in modern, naturalistic enclosures in accordance with best practice.

Wrexham Football Club:

A mere 20 miles or so from Grindley Brook Park (and hopping across the border into north Wales) is Wrexham FC’s Racecourse Ground. Wrexham has the distinction of being the third oldest professional football club in the world and has played at the ground since 1864. After some lean years in the lower echelons, Wrexham has recently been promoted back to the English football league. The involvement of Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney as owners has been absolutely crucial and the fly-on-the-wall TV series which documents their purchase, restructure and subsequent success is wholesome viewing. It’s a club and a community on the up, so if this exciting sport is your thing then trips to Wrexham could fulfil your regular footy need and give you a great way to meet likeminded people.

Market Drayton:

Warren Park, one of our two Shropshire residential parks, is conveniently located just 4 miles from the popular market town of Market Drayton. 

The weekly street market there has been running for over 750 years, and provides quality fresh food for locals. There is a terrific 130-acre organic farm – Fordhall – close by, owned by an industrial and provident society (the Fordhall Community Land Initiative) with the aim of using it for community benefit. Hikers antiquarians will find the Devil’s Ring and Finger in the nearby village of Mucklestone to be a really interesting and somewhat mysterious megalithic site. These unusual stones could be from a chambered tomb but there are no known associated monuments of the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods in the vicinity (though a possible disc barrow lies to the south-west). An ancient puzzle which modern man may never work out – but a brilliant spot to ponder.

Shrewsbury:

Just 20 miles away from Market Drayton is what may at first appear to be a sleepy rural town but there’s more than enough going on in Shrewsbury to pique your interest. A great place to start is with the Sabrina boat trip, which runs six times a day around the River Severn loop. It features live commentary and table service and is a very pleasant way to pass an hour or so and catch some of Shrewsbury’s sights from an unusual angle. The town’s Museum and Art Gallery documents the town’s involvement in the English Civil War and reveals how the River Severn helped make Shrewsbury a financial hub.

The town’s most famous son is undoubtedly the natural historian and theorist Charles Darwin, born here in 1809. You can undertake a guided walk to discover the sites which tell the story of his early life, including his birthplace, the church where he was christened, his school and a couple of terrific sculptures – one of him, and the other named the Quantum Leap. This piece of abstract modern art is situated on the Riverside, was created in 2009 to celebrate the bicentenary of Darwin’s birth of Charles Darwin in 2009, and is open to interpretation on themes relating to dinosaurs, rocks and DNA. 

There are so many more places of interest, great activities to undertake and experiences to enjoy around either Grindley Brook and Warren Park – and so we could probably continue this blog for several thousand more words… However, we’d prefer it if you explored and discovered things for yourself and then let us know what you found! It’s such a wonderful part of England and living at either of our parks will prove to be a wonderful way of life with so many opportunities to keep yourself occupied and entertained!

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Exploring Ayrshire: Home to Cunninghamhead Estate and Bluebell Heights

Cunninghamhead Ayrshire

Two of the seven Laird residential parks are located in Ayrshire, in the west of Scotland. Bluebell Heights and the Cunninghamhead Estate are both packed with luxury park homes and sited a mere 3 miles from the coastal town of Irvine, near Kilmarnock, taking advantage of gulf stream weather in this beautiful part of this beautiful country. Each of the two parks has its own particular charms for residents, but in this edition of our blog we’re going to focus on those things outside of the parks which increase their appeal: Visitor attractions, places of interest and places of activity. Things to do in Ayrshire!

Gentle Pursuits

1.   Golf: 

There are several terrific golf courses in the Irvine area – which is handy for those park residents who’d like to indulge in this pastime to gain exercise and some of their social interaction. One in particular stands out. The Irvine Golf Club is long established (having been founded in 1887) and the course itself is, therefore, exceptional, with a traditional links challenge which owes some of its character to one of Scotland’s most celebrated course designers, James Braid. In the recent past Irvine Golf Club has hosted the British Seniors’ Open, the Ladies Home Internationals and the Scottish Youths Championship, amongst other tournaments. The facilities are excellent, and the well-appointed clubhouse has a bar with catering service running all day and into the evening in summer (dusk in spring and autumn). Other good golf clubs in the Irvine area include Dundonald Links, the Western Gailes Golf Club and Irvine Ravenspark Golf Club.

2.   Fishing: 

For those residents who like to bait up, cast a line and relax there is some good angling around Irvine. In the nearby village of Dreghorn, members of the century-old Dreghorn Angling Club have been able to fish for salmon and trout on the River Irvine and in Annick water. Membership allows participants to fish at a reasonable annual cost, with a decent yield in really pleasurable surroundings. Other angling clubs you can find in advance online include Newmilns & Greenholm and the Irvine & District Angling Club.

3.   Kilmarnock Itself:

A short distance from the parks is Kilmarnock itself, which is worth a visit. It’s the 14th most populated town in Scotland and the largest in Ayrshire, with a population of almost 50,000 – and all of the attendant facilities you would expect in a place of this size. There is also plenty of interesting history and culture to indulge in.

4.   Dick Institute:

This Institute houses the largest museum and gallery spaces in Ayrshire, and contains  nationally important exhibitions, permanent displays of diverse collections and innovative work by contemporary artists and film-makers, plus natural history sciences and archaeology. 

There are often high calibre exhibitions (in the past, artists and works as prestigious as Gerhard Richter, Quentin Blake and Aardman Animations’ Wallace and Gromit), which are often curated in partnership with the V&A, National Galleries Scotland or the TATE Modern. A recent refurbishment for the Dick Institute, and the addition of a brand new café, has given this beautiful building a new lease of life – something you are sure to feel yourself if you regularly visit such an energizingly cultural space.

5.   Dean Castle:

The banqueting hall of Dean Castle displays many captivating historical artefacts including a Kilmarnock Edition of Robert Burns poetry and several works of art. There are also collections of arms and armour on display in the Great Hall of the keep, and many interesting musical instruments on display in the Solar. A bust of William Wallace is displayed on the ground floor of the palace. It’s possible to tour this 14th-century castle, and explore the country park surrounding it plus the Rural Life Centre and Visitor Centre, for free.

6.   William Wallace Monument:

South of Kilmarnock, in an area called Underhills, is the William Wallace monument (also known as the Wallace tower or the Barnweil monument). This category A listed building is a truly historic spot for travellers, as it was built to commemorate Wallace at the time of an upsurge in the Scottish desire for self-determination – so it actually predates the more well-known monument built at Stirling. 

7.   Burns Monument and Centre:

The legendary Scottish writer Robert Burns has many links to Kilmarnock. The first printed versions of his work were made here in 1786, with only 612 editions. These are known as Kilmarnock Editions (and one of them can be seen at Dean Castle, as we mentioned earlier). The building of this monument to the writer (which has been described as having design elements of Scots Baronial, neo-Gothic, Italianate, Baroque and Romanesque) began in 1878, and was opened a year later as a focal point in Kay Park. 

Adjacent is the Burns Centre, where local and family history collections (such as newspapers, maps, historic photographs, books and many other resources) are stored for public use in research. The Centre also holds major collections of printed material on Robert Burns.

8.   Down at the Beach

When you visit Irvine – which, to remind you, is a mere few miles from both Bluebell Heights and the Cunninghamhead Estate – you’re sure to want to spend some time down at the beach. This is a particularly beautiful stretch of coast, set in sand dunes and grass with magnificent views of the isle of Arran and Ailsa Craig (a magmatic 240-acre island in the outer Firth of Clyde). Ailsa Craig is often quarried for microgranite has long been quarried to make curling stones, and is now-uninhabited – except by birds, offering quite a sanctuary for huge numbers of gannets and puffins. It (and they) are clearly visible wherever you are.

A trip to Arran would be a great way to spend some relaxing time. Taking a ferry from Ardrossan, just along the coast from Irvine, is the usual method and is therefore reasonably priced. The trip takes around two and a half hours. Arran itself has much to offer. 

Machrie Moor contains a rich series of standing stones, burial cairns and cists, making Arran a truly impressive site for those antiquarians who make the trip over, though there are other archaeological sites on the island, too. The Heritage Museum allows visitors to explore original buildings from the island’s isolated history, and encounter interesting everyday objects from 19th-century life. 

Brodick Castle, Garden & Country Park is a wonderful Highland estate, offering fantastic views over Brodick Bay to the Firth of Clyde, and a baronial-style castle crammed with treasures including period furniture, silverware, porcelain, paintings and even some sporting trophies. When your day in Arran is coming to a close, a tour of the award-winning Lochranza Distillery in the north – and so some whiskey tasting – is worthy of your time. The distillery’s Visitor Centre is open all week round (with the café open five days a week). 

There are many more places of interest and fun activities near Bluebell Heights and the Cunninghamhead Estate that we could have chosen for this edition of our blog but – honestly – we’d prefer it if you explored and found them for yourself. It’s such a wonderful part of Scotland and living at either of our parks there is a wonderful way of life!

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What are Residential Park Homes? and Other Questions

Woman holding model of a home with one hand and signing a contract with the other

Across the UK there are over quarter of a million people currently living in park homes, a significant portion of the population. There are many benefits compared to living on traditional bricks and mortar streets, including pastoral and community aspects, peace and quiet and beautiful surroundings – so it’s no wonder this way of living appeals so much, particularly to the older community. However, there are several questions people tend to ask about residential park homes – and we aim to answer some of them here.

What is a residential park home?

Let’s break the phrase down into two pieces: ‘residential park’ and ‘home’. A residential park is a patch of land which is owned privately or by a local council or authority. It can be quite a significant plot, or it could be modestly sized. A home is one of the dwelling structures placed on it. These are usually pre-fabricated single storey homes (i.e. bungalows) and have been manufactured and transported to the site rather than built directly onto it. 

Are residential park homes moveable?

Not really. Even though the building has been manufactured elsewhere and transported to the park site and put into position, and therefore it would theoretically be possible to move it, it’s connected up to various services (e.g. water, drainage, gas and electricity) and it’s probably safe to say that it’s arrived at its permanent spot. You may also have added to your pitch (dependent on the terms and conditions of your contract with the park owner or management) by putting up a garage, or decking, or fencing etc. Your park home will be classed as a mobile home and is covered by the government’s Mobile Homes Act of 1983.

So what do I actually own when I buy a park home?

When you purchase a residential park home, you are buying the building itself but not the ‘pitch’ it is sited on. The land belongs to the owner, and you rent it by paying a regular fee to them or to the company set up to manage it. You might pay this cost on a monthly basis, as a weekly fee or, in some cases, as an annual amount. There will be terms and conditions built in to the contract you’ve agreed and signed with the park owner or management company, and this may cover or restrict the things you can do on the land around your park home.

What is the difference between my bricks and mortar house and a park home?

There are a few significant differences. 

1.   Materials: 

The main one is that bricks and mortar homes are constructed from the ground up and are ‘built into’ that ground (their foundations etc). Park homes are manufactured away from the park they are eventually sited on, and different materials are used. Typically they will be built using a timber frame mounted on a steel chassis, so they’re durable and weatherproof. Modern park homes are built in line with the British Standard BS3632.

2.   Mortgage:

It is also not possible to get a mortgage on a park home. If you don’t have the upfront cash to purchase your park home outright, you have to find finance options elsewhere. some finance companies do offer specialised options that are more suitable.

3.   Money: 

It’s usual that your utilities bills for your park home will be paid as a fee to your park owner or management company. Don’t worry, though – you are protected as, in accordance with the Office of the Gas and Electricity Market’s standards, the site can’t make a profit on this and charge you more than they’ve paid for the energy or water you use. Bear in mind that it’s possible an administration fee may be added, though.

How long will a residential park home last?

The ‘life span’ of a brand new park home is expected to be up to 80 years, so that is a good chunk of time. They may last even longer if they are particularly well looked after and maintained. Just like with any bricks and mortar house you have lived in, your park home will be your pride and joy and you will want to keep clean and tidy, and on top of all of the maintenance jobs that arise from ownership. The exterior and interior of the park home are equally important, and it will pay off to be meticulous in the way you approach condition.

Can I live in a park home all-year round?

A residential park’s licence has to state whether it’s a ‘holiday’ site or completely residential as the law is applied differently in each case. If you intend to live in the park home all year round it is absolutely essential that you make sure that both the park you would like to move to and the pitch you’ve chosen are licensed for residential. 

Here at Laird Estates we have full residential licensing across our seven parks, and therefore you can live with Laird full time (i.e. all year round). Residential park home living at one of our seven parks is such a fantastic option for people who have reached retirement age (or even semi-retirement age). With wonderful views and extremely comfortable environments to enjoy, and great company with communities of like-minded neighbours, you will never have been happier! 

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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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