The Retreat Sevenoaks
Almshouses
Independent Living in a Supportive Community
Our History
The Enduring Legacy of The Retreat Almshouses
The story of The Retreat Almshouses is one of enduring community care and architectural heritage nestled in the heart of Sevenoaks, Kent. While the town is home to almshouse dating back to the 15th century, The Retreat holds its own unique place in history as a late Victorian foundation continuing its charitable work into the modern day.
The Founding: A Cornish Vision Takes Root
The story of The Retreat Almshouses is one of enduring community care and architectural heritage nestled in the heart of Sevenoaks. Located on The Drive, The Retreat was established to provide safe, independent living for local people in need. The existence of the Almshouses is owed entirely to Henry Swaffield, who was also the major benefactor of The Drive premises and the local church. Swaffield built The Retreat entirely out of his own pocket in fulfillment of a vision brought from his native Cornwall. Work on the construction began almost immediately upon the completion of the new church, and the stone-laying ceremony took place just one month after the church's formal opening. Both the foundation stone and the gates bear testimony to Swaffield, who also generously 'endowed' The Retreat. This initial generosity meant that the first occupants in 1904 were not required to contribute to the upkeep, but instead received a weekly sum from the Trust.
The Post-War Crisis: Decline and the Need for Renewal
The financial stability proved short-lived, as the generous situation was rapidly reversed after the First World War. The bulk of the endowment had been invested in shares in Ottoman Railways, which subsequently lost significant value. By 1923, the Trust was in debt and was only rescued by the then Secretary of the Trustees, Mr. F.D. Ibbett of Ibbett Mosely. From that time forward, all new residents were required to make a contribution toward the upkeep, and all allowances ceased. The Trust continued to struggle financially, and one of the major problems was that the properties themselves became unacceptable to potential residents, leaving a number of homes empty. What was considered luxury in 1904 was no longer acceptable sixty years later in the world of the welfare state. The original structure was challenging: No's 4 to 7 consisted of eight 'back to back' properties with outside toilets, and the original part of No.3 served as a communal washhouse.
Architectural Preservation and Modernisation
Faced with a property crisis, the Trustees drew up plans to demolish the entire row and replace it with a block of sixties flats. Fortunately, the Council rejected the Planning Application. Following extensive negotiations, a comprehensive plan for refurbishment and renovation was agreed upon in 1974. This plan successfully maintained the essential external features. The Council provided a substantial loan, and the layouts of most properties remain largely the same following this major project. Having the properties in good order and designed to meet contemporary needs eliminated the problem of finding suitable residents.
The buildings themselves are a beautiful example of traditional charity architecture, designated as a Grade II Listed Building due to their architectural significance and historic interest. The Trustees are committed to preserving this architectural heritage while continuing to look for ways to modernise and make the premises more eco-friendly and sustainable. Demonstrating this commitment, the windows were re-glazed in 2025 in line with Grade II listing requirements.
The Retreat and the Methodist Connection
A key feature of The Retreat's history is its close association with the local Methodist community, as the houses are positioned directly behind the Sevenoaks Methodist Church. The charity's criteria specifically state that preference is given to members of the Sevenoaks Methodist Circuit, Congregations, and the Weald of Kent, highlighting the foundation's origins and continued affiliation with the church community that often provides a strong social network for its residents. The Retreat has demonstrated remarkable community stability. While the Council’s loan has been paid off, expenditure on the hundred-year-old buildings is continuous. The greatest source of funds to the Trust is the contributions made by the residents, combined with donations from the local community, which ensures the enduring power of this local philanthropy continues into the present day. The history of The Retreat is a testament to this enduring power, providing comfort, security, and a strong sense of community for those who need it most.