History
Our History & Background
The estate’s origins date back to 1910, when Thomas Watson, General Manager and proprietor of Sutton & Co., passed away. Sutton & Co. was a pioneering London-based transport company, renowned for “inventing” the small parcel system in the 1860s. To honour Thomas Watson’s memory, his daughters, Annie and Florence, endowed the charity with land and built 12 single-storey cottages, officially opened in 1914.
The Watson family legacy continues to this day, with the current Chairman and three Trustees directly related to Annie and Florence. Originally, the Almshouses were intended for ex-employees of Sutton & Co. Over time, eligibility expanded to include individuals connected to the freight and transport industries, with priority given to former employees of Sutton & Co. and its successors, including The National Freight Consortium, Exel, and now DHL.
Almshouse Sheltered Housing
The Thomas Watson Cottage Homes offer sheltered almshouse accommodation designed to improve the quality of life for people of retirement age within a welcoming and inclusive community. With 30 unfurnished almshouses set in attractive surroundings in Barnet, the charity provides comfortable, well-managed housing that supports independent living. Residents benefit from a safe environment, responsive repair services, and the reassurance of support from a Sheltered Housing Manager when needed. A communal hall, regular activities, and outings help foster friendships and encourage a vibrant social life, while a focus on sustainability and high standards ensures a lasting, supportive community.
The Thomas Watson Cottage Homes
- The Hall, 6A The Thomas Watson Cottage Homes, Leecroft Road, Barnet, Herts, EN5 2TJ
- clerk@thomaswatsonch.co.uk
- 0208 449 3032
- 07900 657973
