The Vale Living

The Vale Living Elegant, contemporary, high-spec apartments to rent for retirement living at the Vale. Expertly designed for maximum comfort and easy entertaining.

Secure, gated development. Lounges, bar, restaurant and cinema room. Bespoke support services available.

Now could be the time to downsize with energy costs rising and the knock-on effects putting up the price of many of the ...
16/04/2026

Now could be the time to downsize with energy costs rising and the knock-on effects putting up the price of many of the things we need to run and maintain our homes, now might be the time to evaluate your practical housing needs.

If you find you have more space than you require to heat and keep in good order, the garden is getting too much, then downsizing might be a practical solution.

Here, at The Vale Living, you can have the luxury of your own private, one or two-bedroom apartment to rent, offering comfort and refinement without the worry of upkeep. When it comes to practical, retirement living, we believe we have everything covered - from stylish open plan living areas to beautiful kitchens with built-in appliances and luxury bathrooms that combine elegance with practicality and accessibility.

Your apartment comes with 2 hours of weekly service support, so you can let someone else do the cleaning or laundry. Also included is the maintenance of common areas and our relaxing outdoor space, the cost of broadband and line rental, buildings insurance and exterior window cleaning.

The rental package additionally covers a 24-hour concierge service to help with most problems and a 24-hour emergency response service so you have the comfort of knowing you will be safe and secure in your home. If you need extra help with tasks or care as time goes on, we can arrange that too at competitive rates. So, not only is there less for you to worry about, you will have more time to enjoy yourself.

Our Bar & Bistro is at your disposal to make new friends over a meal and it is the venue for our twice-weekly coffee mornings and many of our social activities such as talks, workshops, quizzes and themed dining events.

Take care of your mind and body at The Vale With a long history of providing quality care services, the creators behind ...
07/04/2026

Take care of your mind and body at The Vale

With a long history of providing quality care services, the creators behind The Vale are able to offer a full range of services from wellbeing to personal care.

Retirement living is about taking time to enjoy life at your own pace. If a relaxing pamper session is what our residents have in mind, then they need step no further than The Vale’s treatment and therapies suite. Enjoy a full range of therapies for the body and immerse yourself in some well-deserved me-time.

Something as simple as having a manicure or a haircut gives us all a physical and mental boost. That’s why hair and nail appointments can be booked at our beautifully presented treatment room and salon. Our friendly staff are here to make you feel fabulous.

Elsewhere on site, residents can take full advantage of other wellness activities such as chair-based dance and gentle yoga

Yoga is a gentle form of exercise ideal for seniors. These are specialist yoga classes that focus on the fitness and mobility needs of older men and women. They offer a gentle yoga practice designed to keep you fit and healthy. Look for specialist yoga classes for over 50s, 60s and 70s. They offer a route to flexibility and stress relief via a low impact form of exercise that is ideal for older age groups.

Our monthly chair-based dance class by local teacher Kathryn Chapman is eagerly looked forward to-lots of fun and laughter as we move to the music.

The Royal Academy of Dance has developed a Silver Swans initiative for older learners so they, too, can take part in ballet classes. Whether you’re an experienced dancer, have briefly dabbled or are a complete novice, they welcome all older learners of any ability. These classes are currently free online, due to the Covid restrictions, so you can plié in the comfort of your own home. You’ll be in good company – the Queen Camilla is a convert describing herself as "hooked" and a "creaky" Swan.

If you haven’t exercised for a while, make sure that you are fit enough to start an exercise programme. That may mean checking with your GP if you have an underlying health issue, otherwise start slowly and work up to something more demanding.

And it’s not just your body that will reap the benefits - exercise class and fitness activities are a great way to meet new friends and socialise. Senior classes and fitness programmes are very welcoming and encouraging and often lead to friendships outside of class – another bonus!

Our holistic care offer also covers activities for the mind. Our beautiful, airy on-site library is where you can choose your next page-turner or join a discussion group. Our hobby club room is the place to try your hand at a craft or hone those creative writing skills.

Here at The Vale there’s a community right on your doorstep, with communal spaces and a cinema room for your use as soon as you move in. You’ll have plenty of new neighbours ready to connect with you.

Spring Blooms & Brushstrokes at The Vale Living Streatham There was a lovely buzz in the air at today’s art class at The...
27/03/2026

Spring Blooms & Brushstrokes at The Vale Living Streatham

There was a lovely buzz in the air at today’s art class at The Vale Streatham, where residents immersed themselves into a spring-themed session inspired by the blossom trees of the Rookery, Streatham.

With brushes in hand and colours flowing, the room was filled with focus, creativity and plenty of laughter. Some took a bold, expressive approach while others carefully layered soft pastels and delicate strokes – each piece reflecting its own unique style.

It was especially nice to welcome two new residents to the group. One brought along a wealth of experience as an accomplished artist, while the other hadn’t picked up a paintbrush since school – but you certainly wouldn’t have guessed by the end of the session! Both embraced the theme beautifully and added something special to the class.

A wonderful mix of concentration, creativity, and cheerful conversation – roll on the next session!

Daffodils are showing their sunny faces and the tulips will not be far behind to underline that spring really is on its ...
02/03/2026

Daffodils are showing their sunny faces and the tulips will not be far behind to underline that spring really is on its way.

It has already done so at The Vale Living where members of our art group stole a march on the seasons with a vibrant tulip workshop.

Inspired by Monet’s Impressionist tulips, a full house created their own beautiful interpretations - from vases in soft, delicate hues to bold blooms in striking reds and yellows.

All of our participants have shown great promise in their artistic journey. Proof that once the art bug bites, it is hard to let go, we were delighted to welcome back one member who had missed a few sessions. She had enjoyed them so much, she had promised to return – and so it proved.

Well done to everyone who took part!

Many people who move to The Vale Living are downsizing from a larger family home – and for many of our current residents...
02/03/2026

Many people who move to The Vale Living are downsizing from a larger family home – and for many of our current residents, it has been a positive and liberating step. Letting go of unused space and the upkeep that comes with it can make everyday life simpler and more enjoyable, while still keeping the room you need for the things – and people – that matter most.

Beyond your apartment, you’ll benefit from the reassurance and connection of a supportive retirement living community at The Vale Living. Our friendly team and like-minded neighbours help create a warm, welcoming place to call home — where your independence is always respected and support is available if needed.

The Vale Living was delighted to welcome a return visit from Emma Fleming of The Streatham Society. Her talk explored Va...
20/02/2026

The Vale Living was delighted to welcome a return visit from Emma Fleming of The Streatham Society. Her talk explored Valentine’s Day and the romantic exploits of local residents.

Emma briefly traced the history of Valentine’s Day which included a spell for you to capture a lover’s heart. She highlighted notable lovers who had lived or tied the knot in the area, including the 1970s wedding of actor, Hywell Bennet to Cathy McGowan (Ready, Steady, Go) and Roger Moore to his first wife, the ice skater, Doorn van Steyn.

The talk then shifted to ‘The Streatham Worthies’, a literary circle who frequented Streatham Park. Perhaps the best known names here were Samuel Johnson and Hester Thrale who maintained a 20-year ‘intimate friendship’ before falling out with each other.

Finally, an unsolved Victorian murder mystery known as The Charles Bravo Murder or the Murder at the Priory. This was a tangled tale of relationships and conspiracy. The recently-widowed heiress, Florence Ricardo, struck up a friendship with Jane Cannon Cox, a governess, and eventually invited her to become a live-in companion at The Priory, her house on Tooting Bec Common.

Whilst she was married to her first husband, Florence had an affair with Dr James Manby Gully. Later, in an attempt to regain her respectability, she married Charles Bravo. The marriage was not a happy one – and certainly not for Charles – who died from poisoning by antimony. The resultant detective case pointed the finger at Florence, Jane and even Dr Gully, but no one was ever convicted.

The talk and the mystery murder sparked lively discussion amongst our audience, The Valees, as they sat down to a delicious lunch. Everyone had their own theory as to ‘whodunit’ but they were no nearer to solving the mystery as the Victorians had been.

Our thanks to Emma for providing such a fascinating glimpse into the lives of some of our Streatham residents who have been lucky and sometimes less than lucky in love.

Sleep is a fascinating subject and whilst we have learned a lot about what happens when we sleep and why sleep is necess...
12/02/2026

Sleep is a fascinating subject and whilst we have learned a lot about what happens when we sleep and why sleep is necessary, there is so much we still don’t understand.
The Vale Living residents were recently given fresh insight into this absorbing top with a visit from Bronte Sherborne, who shed a little more light on the science of sleep and the vital role it plays in all our lives.
Bronte’s session explored what sleep is and why we need it, delving into the neuroscience behind what happens in the brain during sleep, its impact on memory and how much sleep we truly require. She also shared practical tips and invited thoughtful questions on how to improve sleep quality, sparking lively discussion among residents. One common myth was firmly dispelled: that we need less sleep as we get older.
Everyone went away with something to think about and a few new ideas to help them enjoy a better night’s sleep. Sweet dreams!

The first art workshop of 2026 at The Vale Living turned its attention to apples. With a nod to the exhibition ‘Anna Arc...
12/01/2026

The first art workshop of 2026 at The Vale Living turned its attention to apples. With a nod to the exhibition ‘Anna Archer: Painting Light’ which is presently showing at The Dulwich Picture Gallery, our group members were encouraged to begin their work by focusing on form. Anna Archer’s work is known for its bold use of colour and her exceptional ability to capture light like no other. These were our next steps.

Students set to work, starting with simple circles in pencil. The apples were painted on a background of delicate, striped linen fabric with successive layers of colour gradually added to create the fresh, green apples.

With gentle music playing in the background, courtesy of Classic FM, our apprentice artists, including one resident’s daughter visiting from Australia, became absorbed in their work. There was still plenty of time to chatter (very much part of the enjoyment and purpose of our sessions) about artistic ambitions and personal hopes for the year ahead. There is clearly very much to look forward to.

In the meantime, many walls throughout The Vale Living are now awash with bowls of tempting green apples, brought to life with reflected light.

Anna Archer: Painting Light continues at The Dulwich Picture Gallery until 8 March. Further information at: www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk.

After all the demands of a hectic pre-Christmas week, our residents enjoyed the opportunity to channel their creative ta...
22/12/2025

After all the demands of a hectic pre-Christmas week, our residents enjoyed the opportunity to channel their creative talents into a soothing and therapeutic flower arranging session.

Little white ceramic pots were begging to be filled with a mix of greenery, fragrant blooms and a touch of sparkle. The finishing touch was a country-cottage style leather gift tag.

As always, with some expert guidance from their tutor, participants rose to the challenge and produced a selection of charming arrangements that made the perfect gift and a delightful display to grace any Christmas table.

On behalf of all our residents and staff here at The Vale Living, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a healthy, peaceful New Year.

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas at The Vale LivingChristmas is well on its way and there has already been a ...
16/12/2025

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas at The Vale Living

Christmas is well on its way and there has already been a positively festive whirl of events at The Vale Living.

🎄🎅Residents donned their sparkling finery to enjoy a delightful, early Christmas dinner. The opportunity to ease down a bit came the next day in the form of a yoga session. Gentle exercise, stretching and deep breathing helped to relax but also re-energise both bodies and minds. Nothing was too demanding – not even the ‘tree’ pose that brought everyone together to create a cheerful forest of human Christmas trees. Our Christmas carol singing is always a highlight of The Vale Living’s yuletide calendar and so it proved again. It was a pleasure see our yoga and dance teacher Kathryn attend and join in the singing. We also welcomed longtime friend, Father Steffan, from St. Peter’s, together with the choirmaster, to lead the session. The repertoire included a beautifully sensitive rendition of ‘Silent Night’, as well as ‘We Three Kings’ with a solo from one of our residents. Volume levels rose for a hearty rendition of ‘Hark the Herald’, before a full-throated finale of ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’. Laughter, conversation and good cheer continued as everyone made their way to the Bistro, where the celebrations carried on over an enjoyable and sociable lunch.🎄⛄❄️

Bags of Christmas FunResidents at The Vale Living demonstrated that art can be practical as well as beautiful as they le...
05/12/2025

Bags of Christmas Fun

Residents at The Vale Living demonstrated that art can be practical as well as beautiful as they learned how to use stencils to decorate useful tote bags.

Under the encouraging guidance of our artist-in-residence, they had a practice run to transfer and colour in the stencils on paper before moving on to their ‘Fab Dab A Do’ Christmas bags.

There was much fun to be had as they had to concentrate on doing several steps in a set order. Some succeeded in dabbing on the colours better than others, but the final results, featuring designs that ranged from Christmas trees and fairies to penguins and big, striped cats, were a great success. Indeed, Andrea was so thrilled with hers, she couldn’t wait to use it for her shopping the next day.

As with all of our art classes, there was a lot of chatter, enjoyment, laughter, creativity and new skills learned.

Oh La La - French Evening at The Vale Retirement VillageResidents at The Vale Retirement Village were treated to a wonde...
02/12/2025

Oh La La - French Evening at The Vale Retirement Village

Residents at The Vale Retirement Village were treated to a wonderful French-themed evening this week, filled with charm, laughter and the unmistakable spirit of Paris!

The dining room was transformed into a little slice of France, with tables dressed beautifully and residents donning glittery French berets for the occasion. One of the highlights of the night was Michael, who came dressed as an “Onion Johnnie” - complete with strings of onions and classic Breton flair. His outfit certainly added authenticity and plenty of smiles!

Guests enjoyed an exquisite menu featuring French favourites including rich, tender Coq au Vin and a perfectly caramelised Crème Brûlée for dessert. The aroma, flavours and presentation transported everyone straight to a candlelit bistro by the Seine.

The evening was filled with shared memories, cheerful conversation and more than a few attempts at French phrases “Bonjour!” “Magnifique!” “Très bien!” echoed around the room, as residents reminisced, laughed, and soaked up the atmosphere.

It was a beautiful celebration of food, culture and community.

A big thank you to our team and residents for making the evening so warm, joyful, and truly magnifique!
Vive la France at The Vale!

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93 Knollys Road
London
SW162JR

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The Vale Living

The Vale Living. Luxury retirement apartments available to rent in South London.

At The Vale, we've been able to utilise our knowledge and passion that we have gained from building and managing purpose built and bespoke luxury retirement villages and care centres for over 30 years. But our experience in providing high quality accommodation and care for older people goes back much further.

It was in the early 1980s that our chairman, Dr Nick Dhandsa, a trained physician at St Thomas’ Hospital, London founded a company called ANS plc. ANS was an innovator and in the 1990s, offered assisted and independent living in 200 purpose-built units on its care campuses around the UK which are the origins of our sector today.

An apartment at The Vale enables you to live a truly independent life in your very own secure environment and community. Our facilities include a garden bistro bar and restaurant, library, hobby room, wellness suite and on-site hairdresser facilities. If you require additional care in the future, our team is on hand to provide the support you require and to give you security and peace of mind that we are here to help as you need.