The Vegan Castle Housing Co-operative

RESIDENCY & MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRY FORM

Live in a magical vegan castle in Avalon - where creativity, community and hands-on living come together.

Would you love to be a part of a vibrant vegan castle community surrounded by thoughtful, creative people?

Our home sits within the mystical landscape of Avalon, nestled between Glastonbury and Bridgwater. The castle and its surrounding grounds have been home to a vegan community for over a decade, and we are now entering an exciting new chapter - transitioning toward becoming The Vegan Castle Housing Co-operative, a community-owned housing society.

This is an opportunity to experience life here, meet the community, and explore whether the project might be a good fit.

Life at the castle is lively, collaborative, and rooted in shared values. Around 15 people live here, including families and children. Residents include builders, gardeners, musicians, artists, activists, healers, therapists, chefs, project managers, performers, and creatives of many kinds, each bringing their own skills and passions to the life of the place.

Together we care for:

• The castle and historic buildings

• Gardens, growing spaces and wildlife habitat

• Shared community areas

• Creative and educational projects

• Events and gatherings

The house is fully vegan, which is a core principle of the co-operative. Residents commit to vegan living both inside and outside the home, and many people here are passionate about vegan ethics, animal advocacy and living in alignment with those values.

We especially welcome people who enjoy practical, hands-on involvement - whether that's gardening, DIY, land regeneration, maintenance or helping improve community spaces.

At the moment we are actively clearing and regenerating parts of the land, so anyone who enjoys getting their hands dirty and helping transform outdoor spaces would be very welcome.

Life here includes:

• Weekly house meetings

• Shared responsibilities that keep the community running smoothly

• Beautiful outdoor spaces including gardens and growing areas

• A collaborative and creative environment

We are looking for people who:

• Feel aligned with vegan values

• Enjoy community living

• Are comfortable with shared responsibilities

• Bring a positive mindset

• Are willing to roll up their sleeves when needed

A NOTE ON THE REALITY OF CASTLE LIVING

While Avalon can feel magical, it is also a real, working community.

Living here involves shared responsibilities, practical tasks, communication, and patience as we grow the project together. Maintaining a historic property and land takes effort, care and collaboration from everyone involved.

People who thrive here tend to enjoy being part of something evolving, contributing where they can and supporting the wellbeing of the wider community, while also valuing the freedom to pursue their own projects and lifestyles.

Our Application Process

1. Initial written enquiry (this form)

2. Introductory phone conversation

3. Community meet & greet & property viewing

This process helps us explore whether we may be a good mutual fit.

A Shared Three-Year Vision

The Vegan Castle Housing Co-operative is entering a three-year community project with the intention of purchasing the estate from the current landowner and securing it for long-term community benefit.

Those joining at this stage are stepping into a foundational chapter, helping to shape the future of the castle and the community that grows here.

The project will involve:

• Developing ethical income streams

• Governance development

• Fundraising and strategic planning

• Improving and building community facilities

• Active member participation in shaping the future of the estate

We do not expect identical contributions from everyone. However, we do ask for:

• Openness to taking part in this shared journey

• Willingness to contribute in ways that match your skills and capacity

• Alignment with the long-term vision of community stewardship

Living here during this phase means being part of building something meaningful together.

How do you feel about joining a community engaged in a 3-year purchase pathway?

In what ways might you see yourself contributing?

1. About You

As a vegan community, we ask that all animals living at The Vegan Castle Housing Co-Operative are sustained on a plant-based diet.

Social media links (optional but appreciated):

2. Your Journey & Motivation

What draws you to co-operative or community-based living?

3. Communication

Healthy communication relies on emotionally mature communication.

When challenges arise:

4. Living the Principles

The Vegan Castle Co-Op is grounded in:

• Vegan, plant-based living

• Sustainability & low-impact lifestyle

• Respect for land & shared spaces

• Inclusion & co-operative governance

Vegan Living Commitment

Residency involves a commitment to live in accordance with a vegan lifestyle as part of shared community participation.

5. Housing Eligibility

As a Co-operative Housing Society we prioritise housing those who:

• Do not own residential property

• Would benefit from community-based living

• Can contribute rent reliably

All new residents will be required to pay two months rent up front.

6. Contributions, Skills & Passions

7. Looking Ahead

8. A Bit More About You

9. Points To Consider

• The Vegan Castle Housing Co-operative is linked to co-operative membership and participation

• Alignment with The Vegan Castle Co-op principles is part of living here

• Participation in the 3-year purchase pathway is a shared responsibility and we are seeking people who are passionate about exploring this shared journey