Welcome To The Bedford, Morison & Cordery Almshouse Charity

Founded in 1580 by Francis Russell, the Second Earl of Bedford and wife Lady Bridget Morison, The Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouse Charity has supported the Watford community for over 400 years. Originally built to house eight women from Watford, Chenies, and Langley, the Almshouses remain a symbol of care, dignity, and legacy.

Today, we offer 18 comfortable flats and cottages across two beautiful historic buildings, among the oldest and most cherished in Watford. We provide affordable, independent living for single men and women aged 60+, with strong local ties and limited income.

Our Board of Trustees ensures the homes are well-maintained, safe, and welcoming, honouring centuries of service to those who need it most. Learn More

The Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses

Almshouse News

We have a well-established community at the Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses. We are proud to offer residents the opportunity to be involved in events and activities as much as they wish to be. LATEST NEWS

How to Apply

Wondering if you qualify to live at the Bedford, Morison or Cordery Almshouses in Watford? This page covers key questions like: Who can apply? Is rent required? How does the application work? EXPLORE HERE

Book A Visit

Come and see our beautiful Almshouses, accommodation and meet the residents, located in Watford Hertfordshire. Our peaceful Grade II listed building with outdoor gardens is not to be missed. BOOK A VISIT

The Almshouse Buildings

We have flats and cottages at the Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses nestled within our beautiful grounds and gardens. To find out more on the accommodation and to apply for an Almshouse. APPLY HERE

Our Residents Testimonials

Living at the Bedford, Morison, and Cordery Almshouses, we have everything on our doorsteps: the main shopping centre, with its shops, restaurants, pubs, cinema, theatres, and churches. Plus, parks, the hospital and – for football fans – the football ground are all within walking distance. This is independent living with the benefit of social opportunities with neighbours forming a little community in the heart of Watford.

Pauline
Resident since 2008

We are in a prime spot for all the shops, activities, and access to public transport. We have very friendly and supportive neighbours, who can always be relied on at a time of need. Having your own front door looking out on to well-maintained gardens is a joy. In the summertime, it is especially nice when you can mix with your neighbours enjoying a cup of tea in the garden.

Liz
Resident since 2010

Living at the Almshouses is great due to its fantastic location in the central heart of Watford. All the amenities needed for everyday life are located within easy walking distance. Shops, pubs, restaurants, banks, building societies, post offices, as well as doctors, dentists and opticians can all be reached on foot. Access to public transport services – bus, taxi, and rail – are also easily accessible. All the residents get along with each other and social events are organised on a regular basis. The almshouses are a fun place to live in and to enjoy life from.

John
Resident since 2016

The Watford almshouses is a peaceful place which I feel grateful to live in. It has well-maintained grounds and I love the general friendliness felt among the community of residents.

Living at the almshouse in Watford, I’ve valued the caring management provided to residents by the managers and trustees, as well as the supportive relationships all residents have with one another.

Various Residents Comments
Residents since 2008

The Dame Mary Morison for Apprentices Trust

The Dame Mary Morison Apprenticeship Trust is a remarkable charity that has been helping children and young people in Watford for nearly 400 years. Established in 1629, The trust is one of the oldest of its kind in England and focuses on supporting young people in education. The trust's Bursaries help children and young adults to develop the skills and knowledge they need to achieve their full potential, and they continue to be a vital resource for young people in Watford today. The Dame Mary Morison Award is a special award made to young people at the HERTS Awards, organised by Hertfordshire Virtual School.

The Dame Mary Morison Award made to young people at the HERTS Awards

The Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses - Founded 1580

Latest Community News

Introducing the Tyrwhitt Suite: Welcome to Our New Tumble Dryers!

Watford Almshouses Celebrate Legacy with Blue Plaque Unveiling

Bedford Morison and Cordery Garden Project Blossoms!

In Memoriam - Remembering Norman Tyrwhitt

All The Latest Community News

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