At The Old Vicarage, there’s always something going on — whether you enjoy keeping busy and socialising, or simply prefer to dip in and out of activities at your own pace. Every day is shaped around choice, comfort and enjoyment, and our friendly Activities Team, led by Kelly, work hard to create a varied programme that brings people together, sparks memories, encourages creativity and, most importantly, puts smiles on faces.
From the moment the day begins with fresh coffee and newspapers, through to relaxed evenings with films, music or our popular Supper Club, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy yourself, try something new and spend time with friends and family.
Our activities are designed to support wellbeing, confidence and independence, while also making every day feel fun, meaningful and engaging. Whether you love arts and crafts, gentle exercise, music, games or simply enjoying good company, there’s something for everyone.
Indoor Activities
There’s always a warm and welcoming atmosphere indoors, with activities including:
- Coffee mornings and daily newspapers
- Manicures and relaxing hand massages
- Hair styling sessions
- Make-your-own pizza afternoons
- Still life drawing and arts & crafts
- Clay modelling and creative workshops
- Film nights, theatre evenings and opera nights
- Music therapy sessions
- Supper Club evenings
- Board games and card games
- Bingo and quiz afternoons
- Family quiz events
- Crochet and knitting groups
- Gentle exercise and seated exercise classes
- Chapel services and quiet reflection
- Visiting entertainers, singers and live performances
- Watching live sport with friends
- Social afternoons with cards, games and refreshments
Outdoor Activities
When the weather allows, we love making the most of our outdoor spaces and fresh air. Residents can enjoy a wide variety of activities designed to encourage wellbeing, relaxation, social connection and fun.
Keeping Active
Residents can take part in pickleball, pétanque, outdoor exercise classes and seated exercise sessions. Gentle walks and time spent outdoors also offer a wonderful way to stay active while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Creative & Social Activities
Our gardens provide the perfect setting for outdoor arts and crafts, still life drawing, clay modelling, garden games and outdoor bingo sessions. Social afternoons in the fresh air are always popular during the warmer months.
Gardening & Nature
Residents who enjoy spending time outdoors can get involved with gentle gardening and seasonal planting, or simply relax and enjoy our beautiful grounds throughout the year.
Exciting New Additions to our Home
We are also excited about the many new additions to life at The Old Vicarage, with even more opportunities for residents to stay active, connected and engaged.
Brand New Pickleball Courts
We are currently building brand new pickleball courts, where residents will be able to enjoy watching local community groups and schools playing matches and taking part in activities. It’s a fantastic way of bringing even more energy, connection and community spirit into the home.
Beautiful Gardens & Outdoor Spaces
Our grounds are continually evolving and now include a wonderful new topiary safari, beautiful vegetable gardens and inviting outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy throughout the seasons. These areas create peaceful places to relax, socialise and spend time outdoors.
Chicken Coop & Fresh Eggs
One of our most loved additions is our charming chicken coop, where residents can collect fresh eggs for breakfast each morning. These simple everyday experiences bring enormous enjoyment and create opportunities to stay involved in meaningful daily life.
Trips, Outings & Adventures
For those who enjoy getting out and about, we also have our new snazzy trikes for local trips down to the river and around the surrounding area, as well as a minibus for adventures further afield, shopping trips, lunches out and community visits.
Our New Café
There’s even more to look forward to with our brand new café opening soon — a welcoming space where residents, families and friends can relax together over coffee, cake and good company.
Our Community Connections
One of the things that makes life at The Old Vicarage so special is our strong connection with the local community. We are fortunate to regularly welcome local childminding groups, Rainbows and Brownies into the home, bringing wonderful energy, conversation and laughter to residents.
These visits are always a highlight, with generations coming together to share stories, enjoy activities, sing songs, craft together and simply spend time in each other’s company. These meaningful friendships and connections bring enormous joy to both residents and visitors alike.
We continue to build strong links within the local community, helping residents remain connected to the wider world around them. Whether it’s local schools visiting, community groups taking part in activities, or shared seasonal celebrations, these moments help create a real sense of belonging and togetherness.
Everyday Comforts & Personal Choice
Of course, we also understand that not everyone enjoys “organised fun” — and that’s absolutely fine too. At The Old Vicarage, choice and individuality are at the heart of everything we do. While many residents enjoy group activities and social events, others prefer the simple comforts of everyday life, just as they would in their own home.
For some, that might mean a relaxed game of cards with a glass of wine, reading the newspaper with a coffee, spending time in the garden, or watching a favourite film with a friend. Others may enjoy settling down to watch live sport with a beer, chatting about football or racing, or simply enjoying quieter company in comfortable surroundings.
We’ve thoughtfully designed areas throughout the home to feel relaxed, welcoming and familiar, creating spaces where residents can enjoy these everyday moments naturally and independently. Whether it’s a lively social afternoon, a quiet catch-up with friends, or simply enjoying the comforts of home, we believe wellbeing comes from having the freedom to spend time in the way that feels right for you.
More Than Just Activities…
At The Old Vicarage, activities are about so much more than keeping busy — they’re about creating friendships, sharing laughter, building confidence and making every day enjoyable in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Whether residents are enjoying organised activities, spending time with visiting community groups, heading out on trips, or simply relaxing in their own way, every day is shaped around individuality, dignity and enjoyment. There is always something meaningful to take part in and always something to look forward to.
Kelly Hamp – Our wonderful Resident Engagement Manager
About Kelly:
“Hi, I’m Kelly, the Resident Engagement Manager here at The Old Vicarage, and I truly love what I do. I’m passionate about creating meaningful, enjoyable, and engaging activities that place our residents at the centre of everything we do. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing residents laughing together, building friendships, sharing memories, and genuinely enjoying themselves — those moments make my day.
I care deeply about the wellbeing and happiness of every resident and always aim to ensure everyone feels included, valued, supported, and cared for like family. Building strong relationships and bringing smiles to people’s faces is the most rewarding part of my role.
Outside of work, I’m also a proud mum to my wonderful little boy, Archie, who certainly keeps me busy! In my spare time, I enjoy socialising with friends and occasionally relaxing with a glass of wine.. strictly for quality control purposes, of course!”