Residents from Rosedale Court Care Home, part of the Runwood Homes Group, were treated to a regal experience on 5 August 2025 as they enjoyed a memorable day trip to the historic Eltham Palace, the childhood home of Henry VIII and a site of national heritage.
The team went on a scenic drive over the Dartford Bridge, admiring views of the River Thames before arriving at the magnificent English Heritage site. Residents Gladys, Pamela, Bobby, Anthony, and Fred were joined by their care team and bus driver Rod for the exciting outing.
Upon arrival, the group received a warm welcome from Eltham Palace staff, who treated them as VIP guests for the day. The visit included crossing the palace’s moat bridge, exploring stunning Art Deco interiors, original furnishings, and even dressing up to pose at the grand dining table in the Great Hall, bringing history to life.
Residents also strolled through the beautifully manicured gardens, spoke with local gardeners and members of the public, and enjoyed picturesque views of the London skyline. A lunch of homemade tomato and red pepper soup with rustic bread was served in the greenhouse café, rounding off the day with a delicious and cosy meal.
“The atmosphere was full of fascination and fun,” said Louise Healy, Lifestyle Coordinator at Rosedale Court. “There was so much laughter when residents dressed up in historical costumes, especially Anthony Hall, who joked that he looked just like Henry VIII, and Bobby, who embraced his role as a jester!” 
Staff and members of the public alike commented on how heartwarming it was to see the residents out enjoying the day. One passer-by during lunch shared: “It’s so lovely to see. Thank you for what you do for our elder generation.”
The outing, part of Rosedale Court Care Homes’ ongoing lifestyle programme, was designed to support residents’ wellbeing by encouraging engagement with history, nature, and the wider community.
“Our residents have a real passion for history,” Louise added. “Eltham Palace was the perfect choice; it’s accessible, rich in heritage, and offers such beautiful surroundings. Outings like this help prevent feelings of isolation and keep our residents connected with the world around them.”
