Our Story

Pioneering a new way.

Building a place to call home.

Envisioning all the amenities of a connected, vibrant community in one building, Gordon Denford created the first Berwick community in 1989, and it was radically different from anything else from the start—amenity rich, thoughtfully designed and beautifully decorated. In the decades since this first milestone, Berwick has grown to eight communities, each with a character all its own. Led by Gordon and his son, Chris Denford, the Berwick team continues to set the industry standard for vibrant senior living.

We’re setting the standard for empowered living.

Purpose-Built, Unique Communities

Reflecting the neighbourhoods in which they’re located, Berwick communities are purpose-built for residents: every aspect has been carefully planned with their interests in mind. Bespoke details make each community a uniquely beautiful and inviting place to live.

Unrivalled Amenities

Every Berwick community has uniquely special spaces to discover, whether it’s an art studio, a pickleball court, a greenhouse with a view, a theatre or an English-style pub. Berwick is a place where each person’s world can grow bigger and richer. With more connection, convenience and space to enjoy, life is simply better at Berwick.

Engaged Leadership

Berwick is locally owned and operated, with owners Gordon and Chris Denford passionately devoting themselves to making every Berwick better than ever—from designing every building from the ground up to selecting each piece of art on the walls. Local ownership means better service, quicker response times on key decisions and a collective sense of pride and independence that allows for innovation and exceptional hospitality.

A Dedicated Team

Each and every member of our team is personally invested in Berwick’s communities because we care about creating a culture of compassion, comfort and caring. We believe in actually listening, doing the right thing—even when it’s not the easiest course of action—and consistently going above and beyond for those in our communities.

Great Value

Living at Berwick means convenience and peace of mind. Everything is taken care of, allowing residents to live life as they wish, and so much is included with each suite: inspired dining, engaging social, wellness and fitness programs, incredibly beautiful spaces, laundry, housekeeping and transportation services like our Berwick About Town Car or the Berwick Bus. More than that, however, Berwick is about living more expansively and joyfully: embracing opportunities to learn, meeting new people and continuing to live a purposeful life. At Berwick, residents can enjoy the comforts of home and so much more.

Purpose-Built, Unique Communities

Reflecting the neighbourhoods in which they’re located, Berwick communities are purpose-built for residents: every aspect has been carefully planned with their interests in mind. Bespoke details make each community a uniquely beautiful and inviting place to live.

Unrivalled Amenities

Every Berwick community has uniquely special spaces to discover, whether it’s an art studio, a pickleball court, a greenhouse with a view, a theatre or an English-style pub. Berwick is a place where each person’s world can grow bigger and richer. With more connection, convenience and space to enjoy, life is simply better at Berwick.

Engaged Leadership

Berwick is locally owned and operated, with owners Gordon and Chris Denford passionately devoting themselves to making every Berwick better than ever—from designing every building from the ground up to selecting each piece of art on the walls. Local ownership means better service, quicker response times on key decisions and a collective sense of pride and independence that allows for innovation and exceptional hospitality.

A Dedicated Team

Each and every member of our team is personally invested in Berwick’s communities because we care about creating a culture of compassion, comfort and caring. We believe in actually listening, doing the right thing—even when it’s not the easiest course of action—and consistently going above and beyond for those in our communities.

Great Value

Living at Berwick means convenience and peace of mind. Everything is taken care of, allowing residents to live life as they wish, and so much is included with each suite: inspired dining, engaging social, wellness and fitness programs, incredibly beautiful spaces, laundry, housekeeping and transportation services like our Berwick About Town Car or the Berwick Bus. More than that, however, Berwick is about living more expansively and joyfully: embracing opportunities to learn, meeting new people and continuing to live a purposeful life. At Berwick, residents can enjoy the comforts of home and so much more.

We believe in giving back.

We’re passionate about supporting the communities to which we belong and to creating a healthier, more sustainable and more equitable world. We focus our charitable giving on our local communities, contributing to causes we believe in, such as ensuring children’s development, supporting low-income seniors, funding innovation and research and driving solutions to fight climate change and protect the environment.

Featured Organizations
  • Tour de Rock
  • 55 Plus BC Senior Games 
  • Coldest Night of the Year 
  • BC Parks 
  • Local Food Banks
  • Hospice 
  • Victoria & Royal Inland Hospital Foundations
  • BC SPCA
  • United Way
  • The Cascade Institute

We love people, and it shows.

2023 TC Reader’s Choice Awards in Victoria, BC

Best Retirement Community

Presented by Times Colonist

2022 TC Reader’s Choice Awards in Victoria, BC

Best Retirement Community

Presented by Times Colonist

2021 TC Reader’s Choice Awards in Victoria, BC

Best Retirement Community

Presented by Times Colonist

2020 TC Reader’s Choice Awards in Victoria, BC

Best Retirement Community

Presented by Times Colonist

2019 BCSLA Pioneer Award

Gordon Denford, President and CEO Berwick Retirement Communities

Presented by British Columbia Seniors Living Association (BCSLA)

2018, 2019 TC Reader’s Choice Awards in Victoria, BC

Best Retirement Community

Presented by Times Colonist

2014 Seal of Approval

Presented by British Columbia Seniors Living Association (BCSLA)

2011, 2010 & 2009 Best of the City in Victoria, BC

Best Retirement Community

Presented by Black Press Group Ltd.

2010 Governors’ Lifetime Achievement Award

Gordon Denford, President and CEO Berwick Retirement Communities

Presented by Victoria Chamber of Commerce

2009 CFAX Community Awards

Business Leader of the Year: Gordon Denford

Presented by TELUS Victoria Community Board

2007 Victoria Chamber of Commerce Awards

Business Leadership Finalist: Gordon Denford

Presented by Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce

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