Joyful garden celebration at almshouses in St Albans
Residents, families, friends, trustees and staff gathered at Dorant House almshouses, St Albans, to celebrate the almshouse’s 45th anniversary with a relaxed garden party in the beautiful grounds.
Guests enjoyed a delicious spread of sandwiches and homemade cakes, while local entertainer Peter the Magician delighted everyone with his card tricks and sleight of hand.
Residents described the afternoon as “a wonderful get-together with friends and neighbours” — a fitting tribute to the warm sense of community that defines life at Dorant House.
The almshouse was founded through the Will of Lionel Annesley Dorant (1880–1942), a respected St Albans land and property agent. His wish was to provide homes for “people of limited means and good character” from the local area. Originally serving the former City of St Albans, the charity’s remit was extended in 1985 (with Charity Commission approval) to cover the wider City and District.
Today, Dorant House offers eleven studio and eight one-bedroom flats across three floors, with lift access and a large communal lounge for social activities — a lasting testament to Mr Dorant’s vision of providing comfort, companionship and security for local residents.
posted 20 October 2025