Royal celebration for Appleby Blue almshouses

Bermondsey, London – 13 October 2025

On Friday 10th October, the streets of Bermondsey hummed with excitement as His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester visited Appleby Blue Almshouse, the striking new development by United St Saviour’s Charity. The occasion was more than a ceremonial visit, it was a celebration of community, design, and a 500-year legacy of caring for older people in Southwark.

Greeted warmly by Colonel Simon Duckworth, His Majesty’s Representative Deputy Lieutenant for Southwark, the Duke was introduced to Nick Phillips and Martyn Craddock, before embarking on a tour of the landmark building.

Appleby Blue, recently shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling Prize, has already been recognised as a triumph of thoughtful architecture, blending beauty, accessibility, and a sense of home.

The Duke explored the sunlit courtyard, the inviting garden room, and the roof gardens, stopping to meet residents and staff who shared their experiences of life at Appleby Blue. He visited a fully accessible flat, designed to enable independent living, and witnessed firsthand how the building fosters both comfort and community.

Later, over tea and cake in the Lounge, residents had the chance to chat with the Duke about their lives at Appleby Blue. Stories of friendship, support and newfound independence filled the room, a reminder of the extraordinary impact of carefully designed spaces and dedicated care.

“It was a real honour to welcome His Royal Highness to Appleby Blue,” said Martyn Craddock, Chief Executive of United St Saviour’s Charity. “This visit highlights the importance of creating well-designed homes where older people can live independently and joyfully, as part of a strong, thriving community.”

Nick Phillips, Chief Executive of The Almshouse Association, added:
“Almshouses play a unique and vital role in communities across the UK. Today’s visit is a wonderful recognition of the work being done here in Bermondsey, providing warm and welcoming communities in exemplary buildings.”

As the Royal visit concluded, residents, staff, and the Bermondsey community felt a renewed sense of pride and inspiration. Appleby Blue is not just a building, it is a vibrant, living community, a testament to centuries of generosity, and a beacon of what thoughtful design and care can achieve for future generations.

posted 14 October 2025