Has COVID-19 changed the way we think about retirement?

If 2020 and 2021 taught us one thing, it was how where we live can contribute to our wellbeing. Connection to community has become more important than ever, with many examples of beautiful relationships blossoming among previously unknown neighbours.

Staying at home for the best part of those years also provided time to reflect, and for many over 55s, it was a chance to think about fast-forwarding retirement plans.

The idea of downsizing might be financially attractive, but the thought of living a 'downsized' life can also be a daunting prospect. Perhaps that's why settings that provide a rich community experience amongst wide open spaces are becoming increasingly attractive.

Angela Burgess, Village Manager, says she has seen a surge in enquiries for properties during COVID.

'People often start looking at villages like ours because they don't want the maintenance associated with a large home. Our beautifully designed homes are what attract people to our village, but once they come here, they realise the special thing about Cumberland View is the 34 acres of glorious green open space they get to call their own, as well as the wonderfully vibrant village community.'