Castle Dene

Throop Road, Bournemouth BH8 0DB
Review Us
9.7 107 Reviews
  • Castle Dene, Bournemouth
Castle Dene care home is located between Bournemouth and Christchurch. It benefits from great shopping facilities with Castle Point shopping complex near at hand. There are lots of local attractions and excellent transport links. The countryside is close to Castle Dene with access to a nature reserve. With Bournemouth’s sandy beaches and spectacular coastline just a few miles away, this area is an amazing place to live. The fantastic range of local amenities mean that there's always something for residents and visiting loved ones to enjoy.

The respected Bournemouth care home boasts plenty of spaces for residents to socialise and relax, including bright and homely living and communal areas as well as a spacious conservatory. The on-site hair salon is a favourite of residents and Castle Dene also offers a large landscaped garden, often tended to by green-fingered residents, which is a quiet, tranquil space for residents to enjoy.

The home has an Activity Lead who fills the days with interesting and enjoyable activities geared to the residents' wellbeing. But there is always the opportunity to simply relax with a cup of tea and a slice of cake.
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Care Provided

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 50 Service Users

Dementia Care Types

  • Mild Dementia
  • Moderate Dementia
  • Advanced/Complex Dementia

Other Care Provided

  • Palliative / End of Life Care

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Near Public Transport
  • Lift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

  • Self-Funded Residential Care: from £1175
  • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: from £1275
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care: from £1300

These prices are only a guideline, please contact Castle Dene to find out the exact price for your requirements.

Funding Types Accepted

  • Self Funding (Private)
  • Local Authority with Top Up
  • Local Authority
  • NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)

Good to Know

Group/Owner

Person in charge

  • Laura Reilly (Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes
  • Year Purpose Built: 1997
  • Number of floors: 2

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (50)
  • Couples/Companion Rooms (0)

Parking

  • Parking available on site.

Castle Dene Reviews (107)

9.7

Castle Dene has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.719) out of 10, based on 24 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Castle Dene has 107 reviews.

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Reviewer Connection to Castle Dene
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Review from M P (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
The staff are wonderfully caring very friendly and will always help in anyway possible. My mums care is good and our problem with her medication is now sorted of which we are grateful. My other concern was the cleanliness of her room . This seems to be better but again there is room for improvement.
I understand the difficulty in gaining access can be sometimes difficult so we do appreciate your continuing approach to resolving this .
Reply from Rachel Wood, Head of Customer Relations at Castle Dene

Thank you so much for your review. I am so pleased that you feel the staff at Castle Dene are wonderfully caring and very friendly. I will also pass on your helpful feedback as it's gratefully received. Thank you again, it means a lot.

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Review from Jenny K (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Mum is very very happy here and never complains Mum finds everyone kind and helpful and so do we as a family. We are happy to feel confident that Mum is being well cared for at Castle dene, we also visit daily and see this. We find all the staff friendly and helful
Reply from Rachel Wood, Head of Customer Relations at Castle Dene

Thank you so much for your review. I am so pleased that you are happy and feel confident that Mum is well cared for. I will pass your kind words onto the team, I know they will be so pleased with your feedback. Thank you again, it means a lot.

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Review from P P (Friend of Resident) published on 19 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
When visiting my friend David have found the care home to be a very bright and happy place with lots of things going on (never a dull moment). Nothing to much trouble.
Reply from Rachel Wood, Head of Customer Relations at Castle Dene

Thank you so much for your kind words, it's so lovely to read that you find Castle Dean to be a bright and happy place. I will be sure to share your kind words with the team, I know they'll be really pleased. Thank you again, it means a lot.

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Review from Darren G (Son of Resident) published on 20 August 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Lovely home environment ,warm welcome staff around when needed dad is very happy
Dads room is lovely and he always seems happy.
Nothing is ever too much trouble and dad enjoys having fun and laughing with staff
Reply from Rachel Wood, Head of Customer Relations at Castle Dene

Many thanks for your review, we are so pleased that Dad seems so happy. The team will be really pleased to hear your feedback, it really does mean a lot.

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Review from Valerie W (Wife of Resident) published on 15 August 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot fault Castle Dene, staff are brilliant, everyone has been so kind, and very good with residents. I would recommend Castle Dene.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you so much for such a positive review of Castle Dene, I am sure the team will be delighted with such kind words.

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Review from D K (Son of Resident) published on 25 July 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
On Sunday 6th July, went to see Mum, it was a good visit. The room was clean and tidy. She was good and very well!! Very pleased that her room was clean and tidy and her bed covers and sheets were clean and in good order.
Things have change at the home, and its looking up. After the last review I
had to write up about the home. It was not good!!
Reply from Rachel Wood, Head of Customer Relations at Castle Dene

Many thanks for your review, it means a lot to hear that you feel that Mum's room was clean and tidy, that Mum was very well and that you had a good visit. We will always listen and take action on all feedback that we receive from residents and loved ones and it's great to hear that you feel things are looking up. Again thank you for your review, the team will be so pleased to hear your positive feedback.

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Review from Sue L (Daughter of Resident) published on 26 June 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My dad never wanted to go into residential care, but when his vascular dementia put him in an extremely vulnerable position living at home I had no alternative but to make the heartbreaking decision to investigate the options.


From my very first visit I knew Castle Dene was the right place with

it's safe, warm, loving & caring environment. We managed to get him to agree to go for 'a short assessment' and haven't looked back! He loves it.


I simply cannot praise Castle Dene enough. The transition was seamless and he settled immediately. He is now safe and cared for 100% of the time. The team and management are amazing and they truly care for not only the residents but also their family - in what can be a traumatic period of guilt and questioning decisions.


Beautiful bedrooms and welcoming communal spaces, no restricted visiting times, I can have meals with dad if I want - it really is a home from home.


I cannot thank you enough x

Reply from Esther Sheppard, Head of Customer Relations at Castle Dene

Thank you for sharing such heartfelt feedback. We're so glad your dad feels at home with us-it's exactly what we strive for every day.

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Review from Norma C (Wife of Resident) published on 10 March 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff in Castle Dene care home are wonderful. Very friendly and caring. If ever I have a worry regarding my husband someone is always there to help me. The food is great and the games they play are good.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for your review - We are so pleased to read how you feel about the care at Castle Dene the team take great pride in all they do and will enjoy reading this review. Thank you

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Review from S K (Daughter of Resident) published on 7 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Having seen the programmes today - 20 February 2025 - I felt driven to submit a review. My mother was a resident. It was with heavy hearts and guilty minds that we arranged for my Mum to go into the care at Castledene. She had dementia but was a lively, intelligent funny - sometimes awkward lady.
I cannot praise the home enough for the easy transition. As my Mum gradually lost memories she built new ones with the care and support she received. She was part of the big family there. My Mum died last year and the home were superb with my Mum and us. If you are in doubt about where your loved ones will get the best care - it is here. Do not worry they look after and love the residents and their families.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for your review - we are deeply sorry for your loss and send our condolences to you and your family. Thank you for your beautiful words about Castle Dene

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Review from Julie J (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 January 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My mum has been here 10 months now and the Carers at Castle Dene have been very kind to her from day 1 helping her settle and looking after her needs very well. I have seen many acts of kindness by carers towards other residents at Castle Dene and everyone is treated as an individual.
Dementia is the
cruelest thing and the carers at Castle Dene have amazing patience, resilience and energy.
Our family are very happy with mum's placement here.
The management team are very approachable and hold regular relatives meeting to update families.
Senior care leaders are great and can problem solve most things if you ask.
The kitchen team provide nutritious meals and snacks and drinks throughout the day and make a huge effort for residents birthdays.
The effort made by all staff at Christmas was outstanding!
There are many activities, visits and trips out for everyone if they want to get involved.
So a big thank you to you all.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for your review. The entire home will enjoy reading this review, we will be sure to share this with them.

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Review from Joy F (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Although we were dubious about putting mum in a care home (she'd always said she'd hate it!) - she loves it here - keeping the staff amused with her humour! Staff are very caring and helpful. Nothing is too much trouble. Thanks Castle Dene for your wonderful care of mum.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for your review. It is so heart warming to read, we will share this with the team.

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Review from Elizabeth R (Daughter of Resident) published on 23 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My mother has been with you for 3-4 months now and we, as a family, are really happy with her care at Castle Dene. Everyone is so friendly and we can visit at anytime. Mum is very happy there as well. The gardens are lovely and we are always made to feel very welcome.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for your review. We are so pleased your mother is happy and that you're always made to feel welcome.

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Review from Nigel B (Brother-in-law of Resident) published on 7 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
This has proved to be a most beautiful place for my relative to be cared for. The staff are superb with exception.
Thank you.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for review and lovely words. We will share this feedback with the team.

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Review from Rachel M (Daughter of Resident) published on 3 January 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My dad has been a resident at Castle Dene for 7 months now.
The staff have always been friendly, helpful and approachable whenever I have needed to discuss anything.
My dad's physical care whilst residing here has been excellent. He came from independent living and his physical health has greatly
improved in this time, the staff have always been very thorough and efficient in dealing with any of his needs or getting him any other medical help as needed.
My dad's mental health has also greatly improved in his time here as he gets lots of consistent positive interaction from the staff. I regularly visit at all sorts of times of day and have always witnessed staff being very kind to my dad and other residents, many times I have experienced staff providing exceptional care and kindness especially when some of the behaviours of residents with dementia can be challenging.
There is a great variety of activities and outings which are well thought out and my dad enjoys these.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for your 5 star review. This review has been lovely to read and we look forward to sharing it with the team. We are so pleased to read how well your dad has settled in to Castle Dene, and that you find the care exceptional. Thank you.

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Review from Rodney M (Resident) published on 13 December 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
I started at Castle Dene April 2024. I had badly swollen feet and legs but this soon improved, the care I received was excellent.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for your review. I am very pleased to hear you express that the care is excellent at Castle Dene. Thank you, we will share your feedback with the team.

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Review from Penelope S (Daughter of Resident) published on 5 December 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Got to say everyone is great.
There's always someone who will help to sort any problem.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for your review - we will share your feedback with the team.

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Review from Lisa J (Daughter of Resident) published on 3 December 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
All staff are well presented, friendly, caring and some staff excel at their job.
Mum is well looked after, happy and settled in the care home. Staff have a good understanding of how to manage mum. Always made welcome and asked to participate in activities.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you for your review. We are so pleased your mother has settled in well at Castle Dene and that your always made to feel welcome.

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Review from Tracy M (Daughter of Resident) published on 25 June 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our Mum is at Castle Dene and my sister and I are very happy with her there. The Manager is running it with great care and with her team they do everything they can to overcome any problems that may arise. Mum is happy there and loved by the staff. With a kind and proactive Manager, it is most definitely
5 stars.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you so much for your wonderful 5* review of Castle Dene, the team will be absolutely delighted when reading your comments. Wishing you all the best.

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Review from D R (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 15 May 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Visited my Mother-in-law today and was greeted by lovely staff. Throughout my visit, the staff were caring, professional and friendly. The care in the dining room was exceptional - it was lovely seeing the staff helping the clients with their varied needs. A lovely home where I hope she can stay.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you so much for your wonderful review, feedback like this means so much to the team and I will be sure to share it with them all. Wishing you all the best.

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Review from Judith B (Daughter of Resident) published on 25 April 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Having spent a few hours each day for 8 consecutive days, I have seen at close hand the amazing care given at this home. Mum had been here for 4 years but has now sadly passed away. During this time I have seen the staff - cleaners, kitchen, administrators, carers, and nurses - all treat the residents
with kindness, care, and most importantly, knowledge about each one. They have created a real sense of family - a big loving family. In Mum's final days, I observed carers pop in to keep Mum comfortable. They would speak to her in a friendly tone; gently stroke her face or rub her arm and she always managed a smile for them. There was a genuine love shared between her and them. Her passing was dignified, peaceful, and full of love. This is an extraordinary home - staffed by people who do care for their residents as if they were their own family. Thank you so very much for adopting my mum to be part of your family. I feel very privileged to have seen and shared part of it.
Reply from Phil Smith, Director of Residential Care at Castle Dene

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review, your comments are so wonderful to read. I am so sorry to learn of your mother's passing, wishing you and your family all the best from everyone at Care South.

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Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.719)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.719) out of 10 for Castle Dene is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.7 out of 5 from 24 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 24 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Care Home is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 4.719 for Castle Dene is calculated as follows: ( (207 Excellents x 5) + (65 Goods x 4) + (5 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 278 Ratings = 4.719
  2. 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5'). The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Castle Dene is based on 24 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    1. 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4
    2. 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the registered maximum number of service users in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Care Home registered for a maximum of 50 service users has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 50 registered maximum number of service users is 10, which has been reached with 24 Positive reviews. Points = 1
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. If a Care Home does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 19 Sep 2024

Overall Good

  • Caring Good
  • Effective Good
  • Responsive Good
  • Safe Good
  • Well-led Good
Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England. View Latest Report

Bed Vacancies

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

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Awards / Recognitions (9)

Meet the Team (1)

Laura

Laura Reilly

Job Title: Home Manager Joined: 2018

I joined Care South as a Care Team Leader in 2018, progressed to Deputy Home Manager at Dorset House in 2023 and I am now proud to be the Home Manager of Castle Dene. There is nothing better than getting to know our residents and their families, so that we can provide the best possible care and support that is right for them. The whole team and I here at Castle Dene pride ourselves on making everyone feel welcome and comfortable. If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Frequently Asked Questions about Castle Dene

What types of Care is Castle Dene registered for?

Older Person Care & Dementia are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does Castle Dene have?

There are 50 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Castle Dene?

Own Furniture if required, Smoking not permitted, Near Public Transport, Lift, Wheelchair Access & Gardens are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Castle Dene to the centre of Bournemouth?

3.1 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 Castle Dene to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Castle Dene has an Enhanced Service - more info.