Outstanding residential care home in a beautiful country setting

The staff at the Old Vicarage Care Home provided care and support for my mother while she was recovering from a broken hip and a range of longer term health problems for a period of about 6 months. The care staff were all incredibly kind and compassionate, despite my mother not being the easiest to care for, preferring independence and self sufficiency. The care home itself is clean, well furnished and maintained. The staff, without exception, were friendly, helpful and efficient - any time I visited (often without prior notification), I was made to feel welcome and helped get the best from my visits.

As a family we can only offer praise for my mothers residence. She has 24 hour care, excellent food with a superb menu that changes every week. There is lots of stimulation with visits from the children of the local primary school, llamas, Shetland ponies, musicians and new technology. The staff are brilliant and provide a safe and secure environment. There is an excellent liaison with the local surgery. My mother had a fall in may and damaged her leg. She could not have received better care and attention. She is now up and walking, and the wound will be healed by the end of the month. We could not provide the care my mother receives.

We could not fault the care given to my father during his 4-month stay. Excellent staff who always made sure my father's wishes were taken into account. His room was always clean and tidy. The food was always varied, good quality and beautifully presented. We were made to feel very welcome whenever we visited. Would definitely recommend it to others.

I stayed at the Old Vicarage for a short break in February 2024. This was the first time I had stayed in a care home. I was a little anxious before arriving, but I was made so welcome that I soon felt comfortable and quite at home. I couldn't praise the staff more highly. As well as being very professional, everyone was so caring, warm and friendly. The food was delicious and I very much enjoyed having my lunch in the dining room. I said to my son it's like being in a 5-star hotel! I had visits from friends and my son during the week and I appreciated how my visitors were made welcome with tea and cake. I was also happy when my son could join me for lunch. He agreed with my 5-star hotel comment. I was also pleased to be able to join the longer-term residents with organised activities. I hope to be able to return to The Old Vicarage for another short break in the summer. I'm looking forward to being able to enjoy the garden in the better weather.

The Old Vicarage is home from home - and more.The delightful environment is very comfortably furnished and in style with the beautiful nature of the house, unlike many residential homes which are more functional. The team are all very dedicated and nothing is too much trouble to ensure residents have a fulfilling stay. Food is of the highest quality and there is so much variety on offer, with individual tastes being catered for. Celebrations and themed meals are frequent, which means some residents are enjoying their food more than they had been alone. Personal care is of the highest standard and residents are taken to appointments when necessary. The person I visit looks better than she has for years now she has company, activities and a stimulating lifestyle.

Based on my recent respite stay, I have no hesitation in rating The Old Vicarage as outstanding. From the moment you enter the grade 2 listed Georgian building, the feel is of quality, tranquillity and care. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff, the quality of the home-cooked food is exceptional and every effort is made to offer residents mental stimulation. The overall management of the house is enlightened and augurs well for the future well-being of the residents. The Old Vicarage is special!