We were delighted to welcome the community to Lake House for a wonderful Open Gardens event in support of Katharine House Hospice. With sunshine, music, and great company, it was a truly memorable afternoon – and we’re proud to share that £194.17 was raised to support this important local charity.

The weather couldn’t have been better, creating the perfect setting for a warm and friendly gathering. Guests enjoyed a relaxed afternoon with refreshing Pimms, home-made cakes, and the soothing sounds of a live harpist, which added a touch of elegance to the day.

A highlight of the event was the opportunity to explore our dementia-friendly sensory garden, carefully designed to stimulate all five senses. This space helps to spark memories and support meaningful connections for residents, particularly those living with dementia.

In addition to the sensory garden, visitors had the chance to wander through a flourishing vegetable patch, lovingly cared for by residents and volunteers. Many enjoyed spending time in the colourful meadow garden, alive with seasonal blooms and buzzing wildlife. The tranquil remembrance garden offered a quiet space for reflection, while children were drawn to the nature trail – a perfect outdoor adventure for younger guests.

Alexandra Grindle, Home Manager at Lake House, shared:
"It was wonderful to see so many people come together to support such a worthy cause. Our residents and team worked incredibly hard to prepare the gardens, and the day was a celebration of their efforts as much as the beautiful surroundings."

Resident John Loveridge added:
"It was such a lovely afternoon. The turnout was amazing, and it was great to see everyone enjoying the gardens we’ve all worked so hard on."

We received fantastic feedback from those who attended – many were surprised by the size and variety of our grounds and touched by the warm welcome from residents and team members alike.

This event was a true community effort, from the volunteers and team members who helped prepare and maintain the gardens, to the friends, families, and visitors who joined us on the day. Together, we celebrated our shared space while supporting the vital work of Katharine House Hospice.

Thank you to everyone who contributed – we look forward to welcoming you again soon.