
We consider ourselves very fortunate to have found BirchwoodPat H(Daughter of Resident/Service User)

So pleased I chose this care homeRosemary S(Daughter of Resident/Service User)


We consider ourselves very fortunate to have found BirchwoodPat H(Daughter of Resident/Service User)

So pleased I chose this care homeRosemary S(Daughter of Resident/Service User)


Birchwood House provides a caring, supportive, home-from-home living environment for older people in the Speldhurst area. The home enables residents to live full and independent lives.
Care plans are personalised to each individual's needs and personal preferences and reviews are undertaken regularly, ensuring their needs are met as their requirements change. While care staff have access to a range of specialist equipment to support the delivery of safe and adequate care.
Residents...
Care Provided by Birchwood House
Primary Care Categories
- Older Person Care
- Dementia
- Learning Disability / Autism
Length of Stay
- Permanent Care
- Respite Care
Care Types Provided
- Residential Care
- Dementia Residential Care
- For a maximum of 38 Service Users
Dementia Care TypesMild Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "mild dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Memory problems such as misplacing items and not be able to recall recent events (however, in some forms of dementia a person's memory may be unchanged)
- Difficulties thinking through problems and planning, making decisions
- Language and communication issues such as finding it difficult to recall the appropriate word in a conversation or following a conversation
- Poor orientation, getting lost in areas previously familiar to them
- Difficulty judging distances (more falls than usual)
- Changes in their normal mood including anxiety and depression
- In certain types of dementia, personality and behaviour changes may be present alongside or instead of issues with memory or concentration.
Moderate Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "moderate dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Worsened memory problems. Not always recognising own family members and friends. Repeating the same questions over and over again
- Worsened language and communication issues, forgetting what they are saying mid-sentence. Not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- More frequent confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Advanced Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "severe dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Severe memory problems. Not recognising family members and friends. Not being able to recall their own name
- Severe language and communication issues, not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- Severe confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Verbally or physically aggressive behaviour
If your loved one displays this type of behaviour you may need a care home that has specially trained staff. Verbal/physical aggression is often defined:
- Consistent shouting and screaming
- Verbal abuse
- Physical abuse
How we define Dementia Care Types
Mild Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "mild dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Memory problems such as misplacing items and not be able to recall recent events (however, in some forms of dementia a person's memory may be unchanged)
- Difficulties thinking through problems and planning, making decisions
- Language and communication issues such as finding it difficult to recall the appropriate word in a conversation or following a conversation
- Poor orientation, getting lost in areas previously familiar to them
- Difficulty judging distances (more falls than usual)
- Changes in their normal mood including anxiety and depression
- In certain types of dementia, personality and behaviour changes may be present alongside or instead of issues with memory or concentration.
Moderate Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "moderate dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Worsened memory problems. Not always recognising own family members and friends. Repeating the same questions over and over again
- Worsened language and communication issues, forgetting what they are saying mid-sentence. Not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- More frequent confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Advanced Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "severe dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Severe memory problems. Not recognising family members and friends. Not being able to recall their own name
- Severe language and communication issues, not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- Severe confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Verbally or physically aggressive behaviour
If your loved one displays this type of behaviour you may need a care home that has specially trained staff. Verbal/physical aggression is often defined:
- Consistent shouting and screaming
- Verbal abuse
- Physical abuse
How we define Dementia Care Types
- Mild Dementia
Other Care Provided
- Parkinson's Disease
- Stroke
- Palliative / End of Life Care
- COPD/Pulmonary Disease
- Convalescent Care
- Day Care
Facilities
- Own Furniture if required
- Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
- Lift
- Wheelchair Access
- Gardens
- Phone Point in own room
- Television point in own room
- Residents Internet Access
Funding & Fees
Weekly Charges per Person
Fees include all care provided however, additional costs are added for the services of the chiropodist and hairdresser should you wish to avail yourself of these provisions.
An enhancment would be requested should a resident require a level of care best achieved on a one-to-one basis.
The price(s) shown are provided by the care home. Contact Birchwood House for full pricing details and T&Cs.
Contact Birchwood House to confirm what's included and get a personalised quote:
Funding Types Accepted
- Self-Funding (Private)
- Local Authority with Top-up
- Local Authority
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
Good to Know
Owner
- Malvirt Ltd
- Private Owned
Person in charge
- Claire Tye (Manager)
Local Authority / Social Services
Admission Information
- Mixed (no single-gender units)
- Ages 65+
Care Home Design/Build
- Purpose Built: No
- Last Refurbishment: 2023
- Number of floors: 4
Room Information
- Single Rooms (30)
- Couples/Companion Rooms (3)
Visiting
- There is an open visiting policy. They feel that conections with the greater community, family and friends is vital for their well being and sense of person.
Birchwood House Reviews (88)
Birchwood House has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.849) out of 10, based on 32 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Birchwood House has 88 reviews.
Our very first contact with Birchwood was when my daughter and I turned up unannounced and were welcomed warmly and shown around. We walked away saying how lovely the place felt and what a lovely atmosphere there was. We booked my husband in for two weeks respite care and I cannot praise all the staff enough for how kind and cheerful they were. When I visited on day two I was amazed at the level of housekeeping. Everything was clean and shiny and there was a lovely smell of furniture polish in the air. The food looks appetising and was served in his room as he didn't feel comfortable sitting in the dining room due to his condition. The ladies in charge were so helpful and organised ambulances to transport him to hospital for appointments and nothing seemed to be too much trouble. They have taken a huge worry off my shoulders and have organised district nurses to visit and even offered to extend his stay should he not feel well enough to go home. Thank you all for providing such a lovely environment to all the residents and their visitors.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review of our home. It was an absolute pleasure to help you both.
TV controls not working - TV good.
Thank you so much for your kind review. We look forward to welcoming you back for your next stay and we are sorry that your Tv control was not working, we shall look into this.
However, after only a few months there, he is thriving. His health demands are being met by extremely capable staff.
He loves it there, loves the food and has settled in really well. He enjoys the activities and music. I'm really happy with my Dad being at Birchwood, lovely people.
Thank you so much, we are so pleased that your father is thriving. I will be sure to share your review with the team.
The care and kindness showed by all staff is excellent! Home Manager is extremly helpful and answers all queries quickly and efficiently.
Thank you!
Thank you so much for a lovely review, we truly appreciate your kind words.
Dad came for two weeks respite, he has been before and enjoyed both times . Like all the staff . Was looked after very well. Enjoyed the food, liked the activities and the exercise lady. Is looking forward to coming again soon .
Thank you so much for a lovely review. We are looking forward to your dad returning soon.
Birchwood House is a very relaxing home for people needing care. The staff are very caring and patient and well liked by everyone. Nothing is too much trouble & activities are made fun. The food is very good and patients can eat in their rooms if they want to. Doctors, dentists, opticians, hairdressers and chiropodists visit when required. Rooms are nicely decorated and homely. All in all a relaxing place to be.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this lovely review, we really appreciate it.
The team at are both friendly and hardworking, providing exceptional care and ensuring that each resident's individual needs are thoughtfully met. The house itself is always spotless, the food is excellent, and there is a wide range of activities offered throughout the week, including movement to music, painting, games, and gardening. Residents also benefit from visiting professionals such as hairdressers, dental services, and podiatrists, and the local GP support is outstanding. The rooms are lovely, and the setting is a highlight, with beautiful gardens to enjoy in warmer weather and peaceful views year-round. What stands out most is the warmth of the team. Nothing is ever too much trouble, and visitors are always welcomed with genuine kindness. I couldn't recommend Birchwood House more.
Thank you so much for your glowing review. We are thankful of the time it took to give your feedback which is essential for us to grow and improve our service. Thank you again and I will be sure to share this with the team.
For several years I've visited friends in this excellent home. It's a home - not a house. Lovely staff. Book me a room!!!
Thank you so much for your kind review, we really appreciate it.
Staff very friendly and helpful. They are always very busy making sure the residents individual needs are met. In the afternoons activities are arranged so that the residents have a chance to mix and have fun. All residents seem to enjoy meal times. As visitors we are treated as though we are part of the extended family. Always offered tea or coffee with trolley is out.
Thank you so much for such a kind review we truly appreciate your kind words.
Staff warm and welcoming, always very attentive to the residents. The house is always clean. Games are arranged in the afternoons to keep residents active whilst having fun. At meal times residents are able to either eat in their rooms or in the dining area, the food looks lovely and they cater for any size appetite. Feels like one big family.
Thank you so much for a lovely review. I will be sure to share this with the staff and kitchen.
I live in Birchwood House care home, have been there about 2 months, it is a very nice place to live in. Its a joy to sit and look out the windows that overlooks the gardens when the sun is out its a pleasure to look at all the flowers in the garden.
Thank you for your lovely review, we are so pleased that you are enjoying the views and gardens.
I have been visiting my friend at this wonderful care home for some time now and i have nothing but praise for the wonderful staff. The home is clean and welcoming a friendly face always answers the door. My friend is so happy there and says the care they receive is second to none. Thank you to all the staff for everything they do.
Thank you so much for your review. I will be sure to share your kind words with the team.
The team go above and beyond to ensure that residents feel comfortable, safe, and valued. My mother is always treated with dignity, and it's clear that the staff take the time to get to know each resident personally - their preferences, routines, and what makes them happy.
The home itself is always clean, warm, and welcoming, with a lovely atmosphere that truly feels like a community rather than just a facility. Communication with family members is excellent, and we are always kept informed and reassured about my mother's wellbeing.
It gives me great peace of mind knowing she is in such caring and capable hands. I would wholeheartedly recommend this care home to anyone looking for a compassionate place for a loved one.
Thank you so much for such a lovely review, it really makes us happy to know that the team have made a difference to what could be a difficult transition. I will share this with the team and I know they will be thrilled.
My mother has lived at Birchwood for over four and a half years and our experience has been very positive. Her needs have been met at all times and she has made invaluable relationships with carers who have supported her emotionally and made her feel at home. My mother is a solitary soul and the staff have respected her individual preferences. They have allowed her to express her autonomy and be herself. She loves the food. I have witnessed the plates offered which looked very appetising. The location is beautiful and the structure of the house works well for activities downstairs and peace upstairs. I have seen other residents enjoying a range of activities. There's no one size fits all here. I have no hesitation recommending Birchwood House and daily give thanks for the kind approach and professionalism offered.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share a such a thoughtful and detailed review of your mother's experience at Birchwood House. We are deeply touched by your kind words and are incredibly pleased to hear that your mother has felt so at home with us over the last four and a half years. Our...
Mum has been in the care of Birchwood for nearly 4 years now. She receives excellent care by all the staff. We are kept informed of any event, or changes that may happen. The residents have lots of entertainment which keeps them both mentally and physically stimulated. All the staff are caring and considerate, and in my opinion mum couldn't be better cared for.
Thank you so much for the lovely review of our home, we truly appreciate your kind words.
My mum was very anxious about going into a care home, but Clare and the team have done a wonderful job making her feel at home and getting her involved in activities. It's so nice to see her engaging with other people her age instead of sitting at home with her carer waiting for visitors.
Thank you so much, we are so grateful for your lovely comments.
the staff couldn't be better which for me is the most important thing............................................................................................................................................................................
Thank you so much for the kind words, the team will be thrilled to hear this.
Without doubt it's the quality of the staff and management that makes Birchwood such an excellent care home. Being an older building creates its own management difficulties certainly, but it also adds personality and warmth and makes it more of a real home for the residents. We are extremely pleased with the care and attention that our mother continues to receive and have no regrets at our choice of care home. Thank you Birchwood!
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review we really appreciate your kind words, I will be sure to share them with the team.
The building is old and well maintained but there are some limitations in its functionality due to it's structure - for example the lift is old and very small and this can cause difficulties with wheelchairs, trolleys and mobility aids, however, although not ideal, the staff manage to circumnavigate these adequately.
The grounds are lovely and residents often spot deer and other wildlife venturing in. It would be good if they could spend a little more time outside in the fresh air, weather permitting.
Birchwood House is a unique jewel tucked away in the heart of the Kent Countryside and, with it's caring staff and positive attitude, has proved to be the ideal 'family' setting for our brother.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review of your relatives experience with us. We are especially touched by your comment that Birchwood feels more like a "large family " than a care home. That is exactly the atmosphere we strive to create everyday, and it means the...
I've found the care home staff very friendly, understanding, professional, caring, open, helpful..and, most importantly, fun when witnessing their interactions with my mother. I have nothing but praise for their care and commitment.
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are so touched by your kind words.
Regulatory Rating
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating
Date: 11 September 2018Good
- CaringGood
- EffectiveGood
- ResponsiveGood
- SafeGood
- Well-ledGood
Inspection ratings
We rate most services according to how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led they are, using four levels:
- Outstanding - The service is performing exceptionally well.
- Good - The service is performing well and meeting our expectations.
- Requires Improvement - The service isn't performing as well as it should and we have told the service how it must improve.
- Inadequate - The service is performing badly and we've taken action against the person or organisation that runs it.
- Not rated - we have not yet rated this area of the service, this is normally because the assessments we have carried out have been focused on other key questions.
Bed Vacancies
Please contact us for latest vacancies.
News (0) & Events (0)
There are no news items for Birchwood House.
There are no upcoming events for Birchwood House.
Awards / Recognitions (1)
- 23 Sep 2019Recipient: Birchwood House
Accreditations
There are no accreditations posted yet for Birchwood House.
Meet the Team (2)

My first impression of Birchwood was that it looked huge, but once I came into the building, it was very warm and friendly.
My role involves overseeing the running of the home in the absence of the manager, to support our wonderful staff and residents, ensuring that all care delivered is of the highest possible standard. I ensure that all care plans are updated with any changes in our residents' daily living and health, as well as manage the staff rota.
The most interesting thing about working at Birchwood is the interesting people you get to meet and care for and learn about their lives and their families.
I’ve always enjoyed working in smaller homes that are not purpose-built. Working at Birchwood is more personal than other places I’ve worked.
The benefits of working here are working in lovely surroundings with a good team of people, as well as the training and support I’ve been offered to further my career.
Working in care is a rewarding career in itself, but working with the Birchwood team, who are warm, friendly and motivating, makes going to work even better.

We’ve been successful at Birchwood in ensuring our residents and staff continue to live and work in a safe and secure environment. My staff deserve my heartfelt thanks and huge credit in delivering a first class, personal service to all our residents and homecare clients.
We’ve continued safe and secure family visits for our residents too, with up to 3 visits scheduled every day in our secure meeting area. With alignment to all government and health guidelines, our residents have been able to stay in contact with their nearest and dearest. Very early on it occurred to me how integral it was for the residents’ wellbeing to maintain face to face contact. It’s certainly helped to maintain high spirits for all and we hope to do everything we can to continue these in the weeks and months ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions about Birchwood House
What types of Care is Birchwood House registered for?
Older Person Care, Dementia, Learning Disability / Autism are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.
How many Rooms does Birchwood House have?
There are 30 Single Rooms and 3 Couples/Companion Rooms.
What are the Facilities & Services at Birchwood House?
Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Lift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Phone Point in own room, Television point in own room, Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.
How far is Birchwood House to the centre of Tunbridge Wells?
2.1 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.
Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of carehome.co.uk. Please contact Birchwood House to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Birchwood House has an Enhanced Service -more info.