"Friars Mead is a very special Care Home, with very special staff. As soon as you walk into the reception area you are immediately struck by…"
Read all 45 reviews
from £1,413 / week
27 Rooms
Location Type
Care Home
Abbeyfield Friars Mead Care Home is a warm, homely community in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, offering residential and respite care for older people. They support people to live with dignity, choice, ... Read more
"My mother has been residing in Highlands for the last 7 months and we could not be happier. The staff provide an excellent and tailor made…"
Read all 16 reviews
from £1,200 / week
24 Rooms
Location Type
Care Home
Highlands is an independent, not for profit care home in the delightful market town of Woodbridge. The traditional country house, which has been sensitively converted to meet modern care standards, ... Read more
Eastpark Gardens, Abbeyfield Rutherglen offers high quality residential and nursing care for elderly persons over 65 years, delivered by a team of highly trained well managed staff. Their primary ... Read more
from Dawn B (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 25 March 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
My mother-in-law lived at Friars Mead for a year and a half, and we couldn't be happier with the care she received there. All the staff at the care home were so friendly and caring and always had time to talk to us. My mother-in-law positively thrived at Friars Mead, enjoying the food, the activities
and the friendships she made with residents and staff. She was always well groomed and happy when we visited. The staff took her on outings as well as providing regular entertainment including arts and crafts, skittles, bingo, quizzes and many more things. The family days were a highlight providing food and entertainment for the residents and their families. Although the home is small, it has a real homely feel to it and it makes you feel like a part of a family. I would highly recommend this care home and am extremely grateful to all the staff for the care my mother-in-law received during her stay at Friars Mead.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadThank you so much, Dawn - what a beautiful review, and what a joy to read.
It sounds like your mother-in-law truly made Friars Mead her home, and that is exactly what we hope for every resident who walks through our doors. Knowing she was happy, well cared for, and surrounded by friendships means more to us than words can say.
Your mention of the outings, activities, and family days is so lovely to hear - our team puts so much heart into making those moments special, and it is wonderful to know they were appreciated.
Thank you for trusting us with her care. We feel genuinely honoured to have been part of your family's journey. With warmest thanks, from the Friars Mead Team
from Gary B (Son of Resident) published on 25 March 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Friars Mead is a very special Care Home, with very special staff. As soon as you walk into the reception area you are immediately struck by how homely it all feels. My mother spent the last 18 months of her life here and to say she thrived here is an understatement. She thoroughly enjoyed her time here
from the fantastic nursing care, the 3 course meals and the superb activities. Nothing was too much trouble at Friars Mead and the staff were so friendly and giving.
I would absolutely recommend this care home to anyone. The ratio of staff to residents is very good. The rooms are all very nice as is the garden area. It has just 25 rooms, but this is part of what makes it a warm and friendly home to all. Highly recommended.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadThank you so much, Gary - what a truly wonderful review to read. It means the world to us to know that your mother not only felt at home here, but genuinely thrived during her time with us. That is everything we strive for.
Your kind words will be shared with the whole team - they deserve to hear the difference they make every single day. We feel privileged to have been part of your mother's life, and to have had the opportunity to care for her. Thank You from the, Friars Mead Team
from V R (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 25 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Wonderful staff who clearly care for the residents with dignity and respect.
A lot of thought goes into activities, and is a clean, calm and safe environment.
There is a welcoming atmosphere for family members and the staff have adapted to suit my grandmother's needs.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadThank you so much for taking the time to share such a kind and thoughtful review. We are truly grateful for your lovely comments about our team and the care provided to your grandmother. It means a great deal to us to know that you feel she is treated with dignity and respect, and that you've found our environment to be welcoming, safe and supportive. Your feedback is incredibly encouraging for our staff, who work hard to ensure every resident receives personalised care and engaging activities. Thank you again for your support and trust in us.
from Christine R (Daughter of Resident) published on 23 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
My mother has spent nearly six years at Friars Mead and I cannot thank the staff enough for their friendliness and concern for her welfare since her very first trial visit. Mum had severe memory loss and was very wobbly on her feet so struggled at home with her welfare and loneliness. She loved the
regular meals, put on weight and became a lot less confused and muddled once someone else was looking out for her 24/7. Friars Mead is a very happy place. Always spotlessly clean and never smelling like lots of other places do. Being small everyone knows the residents by name and they all join to eat together at lunch time which Mum loved. She also loved the activities particularly singing and quizzes which she seemed to win! Mum spent her final days at Friars Mead and the staff treated both her and her family with the utmost care, compassion and respect. I think it says a lot that two of the key members of staff in Mum's final hours were also there to welcome her six years earlier.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadChristine, thank you for your heartfelt review and for trusting Friars Mead to support your mum for nearly six years. We're pleased to hear she felt welcomed from her trial visit, benefited from regular meals and 24-hour support, and enjoyed the companionship at lunchtime and the activities - especially singing and quizzes. Your feedback on cleanliness, the happy atmosphere, and staff knowing residents well means a great deal. Most importantly, thank you for your kind words about your mum's final days. It was an honour to care for her and to support your family with compassion, dignity, and respect. Thank for from the Team at Friars Mead
from Mark A (Son of Resident) published on 23 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
My mother truly feels at home due to the care and attention given by the staff at Highlands. Her room is lovely with lots of natural light and a good amount of space. The food is exceptional, although the dining area could do with some extra lighting. The staff are friendly and genuine in their desire
to make my mother's stay as comfortable as possible.
from Malcolm K (Son of Resident) published on 23 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
My mother became a resident of Highland House, a residential care home in November 2024 as she was not safe to be left living in her own house , due to minor T.I.A's and falling. We found the care home due to recommendations from a friend who had a relation living there in the recent past. We went to
view the home with my mother (who was very fastidious ) We were pleased to find that she could take her own furniture ,pictures etc and make the room her own personal space.
The staff at the home were caring, patient and friendly and did everything possible to make her stay a positive experience .Mum enjoyed the daily activities provided and the social meetings in the communal areas. She enjoyed the meals which were provided to an exceptionally high standard. Unfortunately, due to a fall she became less mobile during her last few months at the home. The care she received during this time was excellent.
I have nothing but praise for the care given to my mother (age 96).
from Brenda B (Wife of Resident) published on 23 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
I would like to commend the staff at Highlands for their utmost care in looking after my husband up to and including his final weeks. They were so supportive and went the extra mile willingly. Everything was done to make him comfortable. This was done not only for my husband but for us as a family
as well.
I would consider Highlands Care Home to be exemplary in every way and it goes without saying that I appreciate so much the care and kindness given. I would like to thank all the staff for their dedicated time and support.
from Peter R (Son of Resident) published on 20 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
My 93 year old mother found Friars Mead herself and moved from a bungalow on the Isle of Wight to be near us in Kings Langley. Her room was wonderful and she and the family were very happy with the facilities and care she received until she died peacefully there after a short illness.
We would thoroughly
recommend the facilities and care received in what Friars Mead always called her home.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadThank you, Peter, for taking the time to share this review. Mum is dearly missed. We're very pleased your mother chose Friars Mead and that the move from the Isle of Wight enabled her to be closer to you in Kings Langley. It means a great deal to hear that she felt settled, that her room met her needs, and that you and your family were consistently happy with the facilities and the care and support she received. We're especially grateful for your comments about dignity, cleanliness, food, safety, and our team. Supporting someone to live comfortably and be cared for with kindness and respect, right through to the end of life, is a responsibility we take seriously. It is reassuring to know your mother died peacefully with us after her short illness, and that Friars Mead truly felt like her home. Thank you again for recommending Friars Mead. We would like to send our best wishes to you and your family.
from Andrea G (Daughter of Resident) published on 19 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Our mum has lived at Friars Mead for over two years, having previously lived next door in supported accommodation also managed by Abbeyfield.
When it became obvious that mum needed more support, she agreed with us that the natural progression would be a move to Friars Mead. For us as a family, there
were no other options which we felt would have suited her.
The cosy and homely atmosphere meant that she settled in very quickly in a lovely room.
As mum's needs have changed, the managers and staff have continually adapted things specifically for her, ensuring that she has been comfortable, safe and extremely well cared for.
We visit frequently, are always made very welcome and updated by staff about how mum is. The staff turnover is very low, and the use of agency staff isn't required, which means that mum has got to know the people who care for her very well. Last week I heard her thanking one of the carers for all their help, which was lovely to hear.
We really couldn't ask for more.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadThank you for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review of your mum's experience at *Friars Mead*. It is truly rewarding to hear how well she has settled with us and that the move felt like a natural and positive step for your family. Creating a cosy, homely environment where residents feel safe, comfortable and genuinely cared for is at the heart of what we do, so your comments mean a great deal to the whole team. We are especially pleased that you feel well-informed and welcomed during your visits, and that the consistency of our staff team has helped build such meaningful relationships. Hearing moments of appreciation between residents and carers is incredibly special and reflects the kindness and dedication our team bring to their roles every day. Thank you again for your trust and continued support. It is a privilege to care for your mum, and we look forward to continuing to support her and your family in the months and years ahead.
from Jenny W (Daughter of Resident) published on 19 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
I spent quite some time looking into different care homes in Kings Langley and the neighbouring areas, and chose Friars Mead, because it felt like the most family home environment. I was delighted with the kindness and quality of care the staff gave to my mother throughout her 6 months stay with them,
helping her and me to navigate the difficulties of coming to the end of her life with warmth and kindness and dignity.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadJenny - Thank you for taking the time to share this. We are very sorry for your loss and reiterate our condolences. We're grateful you chose Friars Mead and that the home felt like the right environment for your mum. Supporting someone towards the end of their life is a privilege, and I'm pleased our team helped you both navigate that time with *kindness, dignity, and warmth*. Your feedback recognises what we work hard to uphold every day: a calm, homely setting, compassionate care, and clear communication with families throughout. I will share your comments with the whole team. If you would like to discuss any part of your mum's care further, or if there is anything we can do to support you now, please contact me directly at the home. With sincere condolences.
from Catherine K (Daughter of Resident) published on 18 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
My mother has been a resident at Friars Mead for nearly five years and is very content there. The staff are all very friendly and professional. There are plenty of activities on offer for the residents to enjoy.
We are particularly appreciative of the care given to help my mother after a recent discharge
from hospital. And she said recently she is feeling much better and happy to be home.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadThank you so much for your wonderful review and for your continued trust in Friars Mead over the past five years. It is truly heartwarming to hear that your mother feels content and happy with us - especially that she feels "home." That is one of the greatest compliments we can receive. We're also very pleased to know that you've found our team friendly and professional, and that the range of activities on offer continues to provide enjoyment and engagement for her. Your kind words about the care and support provided following your mother's recent hospital discharge mean a great deal. Supporting residents during transitions and recovery periods is incredibly important to us, and we're so glad to hear she is feeling much better. Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience. It is a privilege to care for your mother, and we look forward to continuing to support her in the years ahead.
from Juliet M (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 18 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Friars Mead is a very friendly and welcoming Care Home.
The staff are caring and genuinely interested in meeting the individual needs of the residents.
Every one is treated with dignity and respect. The staff are excellent, from the admin to the carers, the domestic staff and caterers.
Many of the
carers go above and beyond what is required of them, encouraging the residents to take part in many organised social activities. We feel happy that my mother in law is being well looked after.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadThank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and heartfelt review of Friars Mead. It truly means a great deal to us. We are delighted to hear that you find our home friendly and welcoming, and that our team's commitment to dignity, respect and personalised care has made a positive impression. Your kind words about our staff - from administration and carers to domestic and catering teams - will be shared with everyone. It's especially rewarding to know that their efforts to go above and beyond, and to encourage residents to participate in social activities, are appreciated by families. Most importantly, we're so pleased that you feel happy and reassured that your mother-in-law is being well looked after. Providing a safe, supportive and engaging environment where residents can feel at home is always our priority. Thank you again for your trust and recommendation.
from Jacqueline T (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 16 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
My mother-in-law has settled in well at Highlands thanks to the friendly and helpful staff and homely surroundings. We have joined her once for Sunday lunch at the home and the food was really tasty and all home-cooked. There are lovely grounds to walk in and the best view of the River Deben. We are
very happy that the residents are all very well looked after, safe and respected.
Reply from Kirsten Brooks, Home manager at Highlands Care HomeThank you for taking the time to leave a review, Highlands has a home from home atmosphere, with caring, supportive staff and our wonderful home cooked food, hearing that our residents and their families are happy with the care and support they receive is wonderful to hear.
from E M (Daughter of Resident) published on 16 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
My mother has been residing in Highlands for the last 7 months and we could not be happier. The staff provide an excellent and tailor made standard of care which is given with dignity and respect.
There is a lovely homely environment and the home cooked food is of a very high standard. Meals are provided
in the dining room which residents are encouraged to come to, providing a regular social time. There are activities throughout the week.
When my mother has been unwell she was well looked after with the GP or paramedics being called out promptly, if needed. There are also weekly visits from her GP surgery when she can be seen, if needed.
The gardens are great for a potter and to sit in when it's warmer, with a lovely unexpected view of the river.
All the above has had a major impact on my mothers mental and physical wellbeing. She was very reluctant to leave her own home and within a week, said she was very glad she did.
Reply from Kirsten Brooks, Home manager at Highlands Care HomeHighlands strives to be a home from home, with caring supportive staff, home cooked food and a relaxed happy environment. Thank you for such a lovely review.
from Bob B (Regular Volunteer) published on 13 February 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
I have had the privilege to be a regular volunteer at Abbeyfield Friars Mead for the last eighteen months. I have always received a very warm welcome from all the members of management, staff and other volunteers.
I visit with my registered therapy dog and we always look forward to our visits to see
all the residents and the hard working staff.
We have been invited not only to make monthly visits throughout the year but was also invited to spend time with them on one of their day trips on the canal boat and also thoroughtly enjoyed our special visit on Xmas day !! - very special day where everyone had gone the extra mile to make the day memorable for all the residents and their visiting families.
We are both very much looking forward to our visits in 2026 and beyond !.
Please keep up the great work you are all doing.
Reply from Ricardo Da Silva Freitas, Registered Service Manager at Abbeyfield Friars MeadThank you, Bob - and thank you for giving your time so regularly over the past eighteen months. It means a great deal to our residents and team that you visit with your registered therapy dog, and we're pleased you've consistently felt welcomed by management, staff, and fellow volunteers. The companionship you both bring genuinely lifts the home. We're also delighted you were able to join the canal boat trip and spend time with everyone on Christmas Day. Those occasions matter, and it's encouraging to hear you felt the day was memorable for residents and visiting families. We look forward to welcoming you both back throughout 2026 and beyond. Your continued support is truly appreciated.
from L C (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 May 2025
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience1.0 out of 5
I had high hopes for this care home as some reviews seemed to be OK, but I was greatly disappointed. My mum wasn't happy here, it did not feel like home to her. There were no choices given basically told ware to go and what to do. Please think twice about this home and your loved ones. I would not recommend
from N B (Daughter of Resident) published on 27 March 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience4.0 out of 5
Highlands is a generally very good facility, however when my mother moved in 5 years ago it was sold to us as a residential home, now it is very much a care home which means a lot of the staff's time is taken up with more time consuming duties leaving little "time/quality/compassionate time" for residents
from P W (Friend of Resident) published on 20 March 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
The home is very friendly and welcoming. It is very clean, the seating areas are lovely and bright with books and a lovely fish tank to help relaxation. The staff are so lovely and kind and the food appears excellent judging by the menus and smells from the kitchen. The gardens are magnificent with
river views and lots of seating areas. There is also a lovely pond at the front of the home.
Reply from Johanna Edmeades, Manager at Highlands Care HomeThank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you found Highlands to be welcoming and comfortable. We take great pride in maintaining a clean and inviting space, and it's wonderful that the seating areas, fish tank, and gardens stood out to you. Our team works hard to provide excellent service, and we're glad to know you enjoyed the atmosphere. The river views and pond are truly special, and we're happy you could experience that beauty. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you
from J W (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 March 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience4.0 out of 5
My sister and myself knew as soon as we walked into this home it was the right one for our 101 year old mother (after seeing many before). Mum has settled in and is comfortable with all staff, as we found them to be caring, understanding, kind and professional in all their duties. If any matter needs
attention it is dealt with quickly and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions about Abbeyfield Member Societies
Costs for care homes owned by Abbeyfield Member Societies
Average costs per week for care homes owned by Abbeyfield Member Societies by care type provided. The weekly fees are calculated using the starting price for self-funded care provided by Abbeyfield Member Societies, based on 8 out of 13 settings.
Type of Care Provided
Average Weekly Cost
Residential Care
£1,198
Residential Dementia Care
£1,259
All Care Types
£1,198
Keep in mind that fees can vary between providers and factors such as specific needs, location, room type and more can affect costs. For more information on care home fees across the UK and advice on how to pay, see our care home fees guide.
How many Care Homes does Abbeyfield Member Societies own?
Abbeyfield Member Societies own 13 Care Homes.
Which Abbeyfield Member Societies Care Homes have the highest review score?
Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of carehome.co.uk. Please contact Abbeyfield Member Societies to verify any information. View our terms and conditions.