'The best thing about Osterley is communicating with other people'

Peter, Osterley Park

Peter felt he missed many things when he retired. He missed getting up to go to work and the friends and company he had there. This new found loneliness was only something Peter was able to overcome when he got out walking with his dogs.

Now he is a regular at Osterley Park, greeting other walkers with a cheery hello. The social aspect has had a profound impact on his happiness, so much so that his wife questions why he is so happy all the time.

Peter catches up with friends at Osterley Park
Peter walking with his dogs at Osterley Park
Osterley Park and House, Isleworth
Peter at Osterley Park Play Video
Peter catches up with friends at Osterley Park Peter walking with his dogs at Osterley Park Osterley Park and House, Isleworth

Video transcript

'My retirement came around early and I didn’t feel that great to tell you the truth, because I was missing getting up in the morning. I was missing going to work. I was missing the company. 

I had more friends at work - you don’t feel lonely. 

People they don’t know what depression is. It hits you here (touches his chest) and makes you so ill you don’t feel like doing a thing. 

But when my dogs came along, it was wonderful.

I love walking every day in Osterley Park.' 

" This is the friendliest park I’ve ever seen."
- Peter

'The best thing about Osterley is communicating with other people. 

It’s a great way of getting together.

My wife always says to me:  “Why are you so happy all the time?” 

That’s Osterley for me.'