Cultivating Joy: Aileen Clements’ Gardening Journey at Highfields

For Aileen Clements, a resident of Highfields in West Byfleet, gardening has always been more than just a hobby—it’s a way of life. Once moved in, Aileen quickly reserved an allotment. It has since become a sanctuary for her love of gardening, allowing her to continue a cherished pastime that has been a significant part of her life.

Aileen and her husband moved from Woking to Highfields in March this year, joining her daughter who also lives in West Byfleet.

A Passion for Plants

Aileen’s enthusiasm for gardening is evident and the landscaped gardens, along with the availability of allotments at Highfields, was a key consideration for her when thinking about a move.

Her allotment is a thriving space filled with plants from her previous garden, along with some new additions, all growing beautifully. “We used to always grow our own runner beans, so we’ve got lots of the seeds from last year. Everything is growing really well – we’ve been cooking with the beans for a few weeks now,” she shares. Her main focus, however, is on flowers. “I’ve always had loads of flowers, so I’ve brought a load of Dahlias with me, and I’ve got those in, I’ve got Gladioli, I’ve got lots of things that I know will self-seed,” Aileen explains. Though, gardening, for Aileen, is not just about the end result but also the process. She finds joy in the simplicity and low maintenance of her plants.

A Source of Wellbeing

Gardening has had a profound impact on Aileen’s mental and physical health. “Unless I’d have been able to have the allotments, it would’ve been very difficult to come here [Highfields] because I love gardening and I had a very big garden where I was,” she reflects. The allotments were a significant factor in her decision to move, providing her with a space to continue her passion.

Aileen’s love of flora has also allowed her to appreciate the landscaping at Highfields. The community is home to beautifully designed with wildflower garden trails, well-manicured lawns and intimate quiet spaces for residents to enjoy their surroundings. Aileen really appreciates the beautiful exterior environment that has been created for residents, which was another key consideration in her move.

A Blooming Community

The social aspect of gardening at Highfields has been an unexpected delight for Aileen. “There are four of us who have allotments at the moment. We’ve got the shed where we can all borrow each other’s equipment which is handy. It’s just a fun thing to do,” she says. The allotments have fostered a sense of community, with neighbours quickly bonding over their shared interest.

Aileen recounts how quickly she and her husband have integrated into the community. “We’ve only been here 2 months, but we know everybody’s first names, people will go outside to have a drink and they’ll call you over,” she shares. This sense of belonging has made their transition to Highfields smooth and enjoyable.

A Place to Call Home

Reflecting on their move, Aileen and her husband have no regrets. “It took a bit of deciding to come but we haven’t regretted it. We’re both a lot happier here,” she says. The couple has even hosted friends in the Guest Suite, providing them a night of comfortable rest when visiting them, comparing the experience to staying at a five-star hotel. The thoughtfully designed Guest Suite, with an en-suite shower room, is available to all residents if they need a place for visiting friends and family to stay.

Aileen’s grandsons have also embraced their new home, affectionately calling it “the party palace” due to the numerous social activities and gatherings! This vibrant community life has made Highfields a perfect place for Aileen and her family.

Located on Broad Oaks Estate, Highfields, West Byfleet was officially opened in August 2023 and consists of 75 one- and two-bedroom contemporary independent apartments carefully curated by Love Interiors, available for private purchase.

Designed to boost healthier living and champion community gardening, the community provides residents with 35 allotments and vegetable growing amongst 1 acre of Victorian landscaped grounds. The Grade II listed Model Dairy on-site has been transformed into a hobby room and library by Grosvenor Hartley Interiors. The second phase of the development is set to officially launch on 26^th September 2024, comprising of 35 brand new apartments with refurbished outdoor facilities, including additional allotments available for private hire.

Prices start from £495,000. For further information please contact Pegasus Homes at 01932 911 092or visit www.pegasushomes.co.uk/our-communities/highfields/