Our Locations
Christie House
Newnham Road
Bedford
MK40 3NZ
John Crosse House
Newnham Road
Bedford
MK40 3NY
Our Facilities
Christie House and John Crosse House enjoy a spectacular location along the river, yet are in the heart of Bedford. The centre is just a short walk away, making the shops, markets, library, theatre, banks, restaurants and cafes easily accessible.
The river and the Victorian Embankment with its willows and London plane trees are a sight to behold. The flowerbeds are beautifully maintained and there is always something to watch – rowers, fishermen, as well as the geese and swans, providing endless entertainment from one of the many benches along the banks. The whole town celebrates together when it holds regattas, fireworks and festivals along the river and embankment.
The almshouses have communal gardens linking the two buildings and although we do have help with the gardens, residents are welcome to “dig in” and get involved. Most residents have planters and hanging baskets outside their flats to enhance the beauty of the almshouses.
The residents prize their independence and individuality within the overall safety of the Thomas Christie community. Christie House residents have their own front doors and in John Crosse House we have avoided long stretches of anonymous corridors. The layout of each home varies and the residents bring their own furniture, so no two are alike.
The warden works part time and lives off site but nearby. She knows the residents well and looks out for them, just like a “good neighbour.” In addition, all residents have alarm pendants which they should wear for use in an emergency. This ensures backup care when the warden or deputy wardens are off duty.
Social events take place throughout the year. Residents do not have to take part, but most enjoy the opportunity to socialise with one another. The residents have several common areas which are used for breakfast club, curling evenings, coffee mornings, tea parties, lunches, games afternoons and visiting speakers, choirs and singers. Residents and known outside organisations may request use of any common room and a diary of events is held in the main office.
As of October 2019, the parking spaces for residents’ cars are now all taken. This means that until further notice the charity cannot offer a License to Occupy to a car owner.
From April 2024 the weekly maintenance contribution (WMC) for Christie House is £160.99 a week. The WMC for John Crosse House (where the flats are larger) is £228 per week. These will be reviewed in April 2025.
We always welcome new residents. Apply online today
I enjoy being part of several hundred years of tradition living in a distinguished building. You soon get used to the morning knock on the door and I value the warden’s caring role. The charity is well managed and the clerk and trustees are all very approachable.
Resident
We have, without doubt, one of the best locations in Bedford being close to the town centre and the wonderful embankment area on the river Great Ouse.
Resident
This is a friendly and happy community. Christie House and John Crosse House are unique – they have history, attractive layouts, and are close to both the town and the river. Our warden and clerk are efficient and friendly, we have our independence but support and advice are there when we need it.
Resident
Giving up your way of life and starting again isn't something that instantly appealed to me. However I was given a lot of help and never made to feel I was being fussy or rushed.
Resident
I feel secure here which is great for me and gives my family peace of mind. There is so much to see from my window – the river, castle, gardens, trees and wildlife. Christie House is close to everything I need and I value having a warden on site.
Resident
The cares of daily life are lifted from our shoulders in this secure and comfortable environment. New residents are warmly welcomed and soon settle in. My family are delighted that I have found such a perfect place to make my home.
Resident
Set in a spectacular location along the Bedford embankment, Christie House and John Crosse House provide both independence and individuality while retaining the comfort and security of living within the community
Resident
I value my independence but take comfort from my 24 hour pendant. Our warden is friendly and helpful and I feel the clerk and trustees listen to our concerns and act on them.
Resident
I joined the Trustees in 2002 & it became very apparent that we have a wonderful family atmosphere amongst our residents which is still true today. They each have their own home but can also enjoy joining in with social events that take place in the common rooms & gardens.
Anthony Ormerod
Former Chairman of Trustees
I am so pleased I moved to Christie House. It is in a lovely area, close to the river and town. The residents are very neighbourly and the warden is helpful and thoughtful. My family are very happy that I am here in such a salubrious neighbourhood!
Resident
With the addition of our new flats due for completion in 2013 and a newly laid out garden area there is much to commend becoming part of the Thomas Christie community.
Anthony Ormerod
Former Chairman of Trustees