Discover a supportive community and independent retirement living in Horsted Keynes
Welcome to Westall House
Choosing the next step in retirement living is a significant decision, whether you are looking for yourself or helping your parents explore their options.
At Westall House in Horsted Keynes, we believe that moving to a retirement home should mean gaining freedom, not losing it. Our independent living flats offer the perfect balance, allowing you to maintain your privacy and daily routine whilst being part of a warm, supportive local community.
Every day here is entirely your own. You can cook in your own kitchen, come and go as you please, and enjoy your hobbies, all with the peace of mind that maintenance, security, and a friendly community are right outside your door. It is about choosing a lifestyle that offers comfort, security, and the independence to live life exactly as you wish.
Exploring the local area in Horsted Keynes
Westall House is situated in the charming village of Horsted Keynes, tucked away in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The local area features a historic village green, a small village store, and a post office for everyday essentials.
For outings, the area boasts two traditional country pubs perfect for lunch, and the area is rich in local history, including the 13th-century St Giles' Church. The village is also widely known for Horsted Keynes Station, a beautifully restored 1930s steam railway station on the famous Bluebell Railway, offering a lovely spot to watch the trains pass or enjoy a cup of tea.
After living alone for twenty years, Janet moved into her independent living flat at Westall House in August 2022, finding the transition smooth and a boost to her wellbeing. Having previously volunteered at the house with her late husband, she always knew it would be her natural next step, and she now enjoys a busy routine filled with social activities, beautiful garden walks, and reconnecting with old friends. Reflecting on her move, Janet shares: "The biggest benefit and positive change for me since moving into independent living has been the tremendous difference from being alone all day - and not having to cook anymore is a huge plus!"

Elizabeth Wickens, our Housing Manager at Westall House, discusses the reasons why people choose independent living and the benefits for residents.
After relocating to Sussex to be closer to her daughters, Helen transitioned from a large house to Westall House Independent Living, where she quickly felt part of a community again. She found it easy to settle in, finding comfort in the friendly community, beautiful views, and having her meals cooked for her each day. Reflecting on her new life, Helen shares that "the best thing about moving here has been the company" and notes that seeing people every day has "made a world of difference."

Choosing between independent living and sheltered housing schemes can feel like a significant decision when you are looking for your next home. While both options offer older people a sense of security and community, they differ in the daily support and facilities available. This guide explores the unique features of each to help you discover the perfect setup for your lifestyle.

Moving house in later life is a big step, but planning ahead makes the transition much easier. By researching locations, downsizing early, and chatting with family, you can take the stress out of the process. Being realistic about your future health needs will also help you choose the right setup, whether that is independent living or a sheltered house.

Moving into a retirement home is a big transition, but advice from people who have already made the move can help you feel at home straight away. From small ways to make your new flat feel familiar to simple steps for finding your feet in the community, these resident-approved tips make settling in a breeze.
After a back operation made managing her old house too difficult, Sylvia moved to Westall House for a "balance of independence and support" that suits her perfectly. While she is happy in her own company, she enjoys coffee mornings and daily visits from the wellbeing team, alongside walks around the grounds. Best of all, she no longer faces the "constant worries about the upkeep of a house and garden," allowing her to enjoy her new flat with complete peace of mind.
When you are exploring housing options, it is normal to have lots of questions about daily life, costs and what to expect. From understanding age requirements and bringing pets to how funding works and what rooms look like, our comprehensive FAQ guide covers everything you need to know. Read the full list to find answers and get peace of mind about making the move.

Discover modern one and two-bedroom independent living flats in the idyllic village of Horsted Keynes. Perfectly designed for comfort and accessibility, our spacious apartments feature open-plan living, private balconies, and beautiful views of the West Sussex countryside. Here, you can enjoy the privacy of your own home alongside a welcoming community, complete with shared lounges, a communal dining room with optional meal services, and landscaped gardens. Situated just a ten-minute stroll from local village shops and pubs, Westall House offers a secure, maintenance-free retirement with easy access to nearby healthcare services.
