The Best Rated Care Homes in the UK

Care homes in the UK have undergone a makeover in recent years. Bursting with vibrant colours and modern furniture and bustling with activities, events and entertainment, the UK’s care homes take pride in the high level of quality care they offer, as well as the luxurious facilities and stunning grounds.

In this article, we look at some truly spectacular care homes in the UK that received a much sought-after Outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission.

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What is the CQC?

First things first – what is the CQC? On your search for the best care home near you, you’ll likely come across the CQC a lot.

CQC stands for the Care Quality Commission, an independent regulator of health and social care in England. Scotland, Wales and Ireland have different Care Quality Regulators, so be aware of this if you’re looking outside England.

The CQC registers, monitors and inspects care homes and gives them one of four ratings; Outstanding (for exceptional service), Good (for service that meets expectations), Requires Improvement (for service that is not performing as expected) and Inadequate (poor performance).

The CQC will always take action against underperforming care homes to find ways to improve them.

The Importance of CQC Ratings

Less than 4% of England’s care homes are rated Outstanding by CQC.

CQC ratings are important because they give a trustworthy indication of a care home’s quality, including the staff’s expertise and their treatment of residents, the cleanliness of the premises and its equipment, the food, safety measures and much more.

All care homes should display a CQC rating, so it’s always good to check. A Google of ‘CQC outstanding care homes near me’ will bring up some quick results, but for a really detailed list, you can use Lottie to search for CQC outstanding care homes near you.

The CQC has remained dedicated to inspections even during the COVID-19 pandemic, introducing all-new Infection Prevention and Control inspections in order to keep vulnerable elderly people in care safe while still being able to share good practices and uphold high-quality care.

Now, let’s dive into some of CQC’s outstanding rated care homes.

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Admiral Court (Hallmark Care)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for care quality and seaside living

The first care home on our list is Admiral Court, located in Leigh-On-Sea, part of the Hallmark Care Homes group. Admiral Court provides industry-leading residential, nursing and dementia care in the quiet and peaceful town of Leigh-on-Sea, nearby neighbouring towns Westcliff-on-Sea and Southend-on-Sea. A modern, purpose-built building with 60 spacious bedrooms, Admiral Court also has a vibrant café, cosy hair salon, cinema, dedicated therapy room and beautifully landscaped gardens with potting shed. The care team at Admiral Court, headed up by manager Sue, pride themselves on their relationship-centred approach to care, working with residents to help them feel more independent and keep up old hobbies and interests.

Tell me more about Admiral Court.

Anisha Grange (Hallmark Care)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for facilities and home experiences

An absolutely stunning 72-bedroom care home, Anisha Grange in Essex provides residential, nursing and dementia care of a standard to be expected from a CQC Outstanding care home. Part of the Hallmark Care Homes group, Anisha Grange takes a relationship-centred approach to care, encouraging residents to live life to the full, take up new hobbies and discover new passions.

Tell me more about Anisha Grange.

Coombe Hill Manor (Signature Care Homes)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for activities and home experiences

Next on our list of outstanding rated care homes is Coombe Hill Manor, a purpose-built care home in Kingston, providing exceptional residential, nursing care and specialist dementia care. The home benefits from 94 private studios, one and two-bed deluxes suites, some of which come complete with en suite wetrooms, kitchenettes and private balconies. With outstanding facilities that include a cinema, two outstanding restaurants, spa and therapy suite, a hair salon and a fully equipped library, Coombe Hill Manor are truly passionate about providing expert care in a comfortable, friendly and luxurious environment. The home also has an activity team to take residents for daily events and trips out and organise visiting speakers.

Tell me more about Coombe Hill Manor.

Cumnor Hill House (Berkley Care)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for luxury living

Berkley Care’s Cumnor Hill House offers an all-inclusive weekly fee for an incredibly high standard of care – and there are even on-site physiotherapy, personal trainer, and holistic and wellness specialists to cover all care bases. Situated in Oxford - and with luxury facilities that include a private cinema room, spa and hair salon, specialist gym, and private dining room, it’s no surprise that Cumnor Hill House was awarded its Outstanding rating by the CQC.

Tell me more about Cumnor Hill House.

Groveland Park (Berkley Care)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for care quality and home experiences

Groveland Park can be found in Bexleyheath, providing the highest quality of residential, dementia, day and short stay care. Part of the esteemed Berkley Care group, the team at Groveland pride themselves on the exceptional standards of care, which have earned them exceptional customer reviews, as well as entertaining social activities organised by the home’s resident events coordinator. Residents’ needs and preferences are always put first; whether they enjoy a spot of wine tasting, boogying the night away at one of the home’s jazz nights, or are happiest relaxing with a good film.

Tell me more about Groveland Park.

Kew House (Hallmark Care)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for London living

Next on our list of the UK’s top-rated care homes, Kew House really sets the standard when it comes to residential, nursing and dementia care. Located in Wimbledon, the home is part of the Hallmark Care Group and has a wide range of luxurious facilities available for care seekers. Residents are encouraged to join in with the activities programme, spend quality time with loved ones, or take small trips to nearby shops and amenities to maintain their independence.

Tell me more about Kew House.

Netley Court (Cinnamon Care)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for home character and traditional living

Part of the Cinnamon Care group, Netley Court in Netley Abbey, Southampton is first on our list. Providing specialist residential and dementia care, Netley Court well and truly puts UK care homes on the map when it comes to outstanding quality services. The expert team focus on promoting dignity, personal choice and independence in care, ensuring that residents live happy and fulfilled lives at Netley Court; from pampering in the hair salon, to quiet reading and reflection in the library and soaking up the stunning waterfront views from the landscaped gardens. As well as an Outstanding from the CQC, Netley Court also has exceptional customer reviews.

Tell me more about Netley Court.

Sherwood Grange (Care UK)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for local amenities

Set against the gorgeous backdrop of leafy Richmond Park, Sherwood Grange is located in Kingston Vale in London and provides an exceptional level of care; from residential care and dementia care, to sensitive end of life care. Part of the Care UK group, the home was awarded an Outstanding rating from CQC and has achieved top reviews from customers. The team at Sherwood Grange strive to make sure residents are happy and cared for round-the-clock, with a varied activities programme to help each and every person find something they enjoy.

Tell me more about Sherwood Grange.

Shinfield View (Berkley Care)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for luxury facilities and activities

Part of the esteemed Berkley Care group is Shinfield View, a multi award-winning, purpose-built care home located in Wokingham, near Reading. Shinfield View offers exceptional standards of residential care, dementia care, short term care and adult day care at an all-inclusive price.

Facilities at Shinfield View include a bar, bistro, private dining room, spa, hair salon, library and private cinema room, as well as beautiful landscaped gardens. The caring team caters to residents’ every need - there’s even a full-time events manager to plan a range of entertaining activities and events.

Shinfield View is well-located via the M4 and A33 and shops and amenities are just a short trip on public transport away. The nearby village green is perfect for holding events with family and friends of residents.

Tell me more about Shinfield View.

Mountfitchet House (Care UK)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for transport links

Mountfitchet House is a purpose-built care home in Stansted Mountfitchet. Part of the Care UK group, Mountfitchet House provides round-the-clock residential, nursing and dementia care for up to 60 residents, as well as sensitive end of life support, such as palliative care.

Spread over two floors, Mountfitchet House is divided into four suites that create a ‘home within a home’ to help residents living with dementia. Each suite has its own beautifully furnished lounge, bistro-style dining room and en-suite bedrooms. A packed activities programme is on-hand to make residents’ lives as fulfilling as possible.

Mountfitchet House is well-connected both by road and public transport, with links to major motorways and trains to London and Cambridge. It is also easily accessible from Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Suffolk.

Tell me more about Mountfitchet House.

Burcot Grange (Cinnamon Care)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for a beautiful setting

Part of the Cinnamon Care group, Burcot Grange is a restored care home in Bromsgrove and provides quality residential care, convalescent care and daycare in a luxury country house setting. Accommodation at Burcot Grange is spacious and comfortable, with 36 en-suite bedrooms and a select few one-bedroom care suites.

The dedicated team at Burcot Grange encourage residents to enjoy life to the full, whether that’s relaxing in the gorgeous Victorian building’s communal areas, taking part in fun activities or meeting family and friends for tea. Burcot Grange is close to the village of Burcot and has several main roads nearby, making it easy for visitors to get to the home.

Tell me more about Burcot Grange.

Arcot House (Doveleigh Care Ltd)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for health and wellbeing

Another care home on our list that scooped an 'Outstanding' from the Care Quality Commission in all five domains of inspection is Arcot House in the seaside town of Sidmouth, Devon. Arcot House provides exceptional standards of care for 28 people.

The care team at Arcot House, led by manager Samantha, strive to provide effective care and lifestyle solutions for all residents, with hobbies and entertainment actively encouraged, including painting classes and relaxing massages. Residents’ health and well-being are the number one priorities, with everything from diet and nutrition to hydration expertly looked after each day.

Tell me more about Arcot House.

Dove Court (Doveleigh Care Ltd)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for assisted living

Next up is Doveleigh Care’s Dove Court care home, located in Seaton. Residents at Dove Court benefit from some truly stunning views looking over the Axe Valley and Lyme Bay. The home is set out over three floors, with a total of 30 bedrooms, dining room, sunny conservatory and cosy lounge areas. Wheelchair users feel at home at Dove Court, which has assisted bathrooms and specialist lifts.

The home benefited from significant investment and refurbishment, as well as quality training for the care team, who aim to look after each and every resident’s health and wellbeing, encouraging them to live full and happy lives. There is also an activities coordinator on-hand to provide entertainment and fun.

Tell me more about Dove Court.

Broadlands (Prime Care Group)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for dining

Broadlands nursing home is a beautiful care home located in Sutton in Surrey providing 24-hour nursing, residential, dementia care, respite and palliative care. Broadlands provides a safe and homely environment for residents, with a special focus on holistic care and person-centered care.

The home is set across two floors, with a large private garden and picturesque decking area, perfect for relaxing in sunny weather. Delicious, nutritious meals are cooked up according to the carefully curated menu, which varies daily, and served in the beautiful conservatory, allowing residents to look out into the gardens while they eat.

Friends and families are encouraged to visit and join in with the activities organised by Broadlands' enthusiastic activity coordinator.

Tell me more about Broadlands.

Harleston House (Greensleeves)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for personalising bedrooms

Next on the list is Harleston House, a Greensleeves Care home in Lowestoft, Suffolk. The home, which provides residential care and specialist dementia care, houses up to 39 residents, offering a range of different sizes and styles of room. Residents are able to bring personal items to decorate their rooms and can enjoy safe and secure internal and external spaces, all of which have been specially adapted for those living with dementia.

Manager Susan heads up the care team, who work round the clock to ensure residents live in a safe and friendly environment, where everyone’s rights, privacy and dignity are respected and personal autonomy and choice are encouraged.

Tell me more about Harleston House.

Westbourne Tower

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for beaches

Westbourne Tower is a premium care home in Bournemouth providing dementia care, nursing care and residential care. Catering for up to 114 residents, Westbourne Tower has elegant dining rooms, on-site nursing facilities and stunning outdoor space.

The care home encourages its residents to lead an active lifestyle; whether that’s nurturing hobbies and interests, trying new activities or making new friends. There’s even an activities coordinator available to plan exciting events, trips and activities.

For beach lovers, Westbourne Tower has easy access to Bournemouth and Poole and is well-connected via road and rail to nearby Swanage, Dorchester, Weymouth and Dorset.

Tell me more about Westbourne Tower.

Eastbourne Gardens

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for pets

Another Signature care home to make the list, Eastbourne Gardens is up next. A luxury care home offering residential, nursing, respite and dementia care, Eastbourne Gardens has 93 beds, on-site nursing facilities, and beautiful, wheelchair-friendly landscaped gardens. The home is even pet-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend with you when you move in.

There’s plenty to do and see around Eastbourne - the resident activities coordinator arranges exciting events, trips and activities daily, and the South Downs, Beachy Head beauty spot, Hastings, Hove and Brighton are all within a short drive, plus there’s a direct train service to London, too!

Tell me more about Eastbourne Gardens.

Sonning Gardens

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for deluxe apartments

Sonning Gardens in Reading provides top-class residential, nursing, respite and dementia care for up to 101 residents. The home is set over two and a half acres and offers a variety of different accommodation options, including beautifully decorated deluxe departments. All rooms at the home are pet friendly too!

In addition to the jam-packed activities and events calendar, residents are also encouraged to keep active, make friends, keep up with favourite hobbies and explore new interests so that every day is different and exciting.

Sonning Gardens is conveniently located to local areas like Henley On Thames, Caversham, Woodley and Wokingham and is easily accessible via the M4 and M40.

Tell me more about Sonning Gardens.

Crowstone House (Runwood Homes Senior Living)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for old-style décor

Crowstone House is situated on the seafront at Westcliff-on-Sea, offering residents picturesque views over the Thames Estuary. A home with real character, Crowstone House even has a splendid staircase and a classical feature turret room that is used for activities.

The home has 49 bedrooms, all of which are furnished with en-suite bathroom facilities and there is a dedicated area for dementia care. The activity programme ensures that residents are stimulated and engaged, with activities ranging from cookery club and musical exercise to themed lunches, trips to the seafront and excursions to nearby Cliffs Pavilion, Chalkwell, Leigh-on-Sea and Southend-on-Sea.

Tell me more about Crowstone House.

Windmill House (WindMill Care)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for gardens

Next we travel to Wymondham to find Windmill House, a charming country home offering high-quality care services for up to 57 residents. The jewel in the crown at Windmill House has got to be the gardens, which feature a scent garden, rose maze, lily pond and orchard with locally kept bees which provide the home with delicious homegrown honey.

The expert staff at Windmill House are well-trained to care for those living with dementia, including Alzheimer’s, incorporating innovative practices to assist with mental health and wellbeing and there are several communal lounges and spaces throughout the home, enabling residents to spend plenty of time in company with fellow residents, doing activities, chatting or relaxing.

Tell me more about Windmill House.

Frank Foster House (Runwood Homes Senior Living)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for themed rooms

Cocooned in leafy Theydon Bois we find Frank Foster House, a home providing residential care, short-term and respite care and dementia care for up to 80 residents. Standout features at Frank Foster House include sensory items on the walls and a sea life scene on the floor, as well as a themed, old-fashioned tea room at Frank Foster House and 21st Century room with computer and Wii. There’s even a small chapel.

Manager Cheryl leads the care team at Frank Foster House, who put their all into treating each resident with love and compassion to make their stay at the home enjoyable and comfortable. Activities are always available at the home, whether that’s arts and crafts or games.

Tell me more about Frank Foster House.

Jubilee House (Care UK)

Lottie’s Verdict: Best for bespoke care plans

Finally we have Jubilee House in Godalming, Surrey, a purpose-built care home offering a range of expert care services, including residential, nursing and dementia care. Features at Jubilee House include 48 bedrooms, specialist dementia suite, communal spaces and gardens where residents enjoy catching up with loved ones.

As soon as a new resident arrives at the home, the dedicated care team create a life story book for them, containing everything from medication, sleep patterns and dietary needs, to the person’s preferred routine and likes and dislikes, which helps the team create a bespoke care plan of activities and entertainment for them.

Tell me more about Jubilee House.

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Lottie matches care seekers with the best care homes for their needs. You can request a free care home shortlist from our care experts, who will share homes matching your budget, location and type of care needed. You can also search for a care home through our easy-to-use directory.