King Charles has continued his tradition of opening up Highgrove House and Gardens to local elderly and vulnerable people for the third consecutive year.
The ‘Winter Warmer’ sessions, which began in 2023, provide attendees with free access to warm spaces, socialisation opportunities and meals at the King’s private residence.
The initiative extends beyond Highgrove, with similar programmes running at Dumfries House and the Castle of Mey.
Local pensioners are welcomed to enjoy activities designed to foster friendships and combat loneliness among the elderly.
King Charles has continued his tradition of opening up Highgrove House and Gardens to local elderly and vulnerable people for the third consecutive year
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The sessions include complimentary meals prepared by royal chefs, with guests invited to spend comfortable afternoons in the warm surroundings of the royal properties.
The programme offers these services entirely free of charge, providing vital support to elderly members of the local community.
During a recent Winter Warmer session, Highgrove House hosted a special celebration for 83-year-old Eoin Down.
The Highland-born pensioner received a handcrafted leather keyring as a birthday gift from the establishment.
Fellow attendees joined in the festivities, singing ‘Happy Birthday’ as Eoin blew out his candle and enjoyed a slice of cake.
“It’s something I didn’t expect, and it’s really something special,” Eoin told Good Morning Britain, visibly moved by the experience.
The occasion demonstrated how the Winter Warmer initiative aims to create meaningful experiences for its guests while fostering a welcoming atmosphere at the King’s residence.
Constantine Innemee, Director of Highgrove, emphasised the welcoming nature of the programme during a Good Morning Britain appearance.
The ‘Winter Warmer’ sessions began in 2023
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He said: “This is all about us opening this space here without any questions asked. It’s just a nice comfortable afternoon to come and join us as one of our guests.”
Speaking about the King’s Foundation’s broader mission, Innemee highlighted the initiative’s importance to community building.
He explained: “At The King’s Foundation we aim to build sustainable communities and transform lives through education and health and wellbeing programmes.”
He noted that the Winter Warmers initiative has become “a staple in contributing to that mission”.
