The Orchards Residential Home

1 Perry's Lane, Wroughton, Swindon SN4 9AX
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9.9 71 Reviews
  • The Orchards Residential Home, Swindon
Set in a peaceful location with leafy gardens and light-filled spaces, The Firs offers more than just a place to live – it’s a place to feel at ease. Residents can relax in the comfortable lounge, share time with others in the dining areas, or enjoy a quiet drink in the bar. With the scent of sea air drifting through the garden, the calm, unhurried rhythm of life here provides a true sense of retreat.

Each resident receives support tailored to their individual needs – whether for long-term care, respite stays, or recovery following a hospital visit. The care team is recognised not only for professional expertise, but also for warmth and thoughtful attention.

All bedrooms are en-suite, and there’s ample space to enjoy – from inviting communal lounges to the recently redesigned garden, featuring a pergola, greenhouse, and potting bench. The activities programme is inclusive and varied, offering something to suit every interest and energy level. Past favourites have included gala week bingo, ice cream in the sun, gardening club, creative crafts, and gentle reminiscence sessions.

Mealtimes are an occasion to enjoy, with seasonal dishes prepared by in-house chefs – nourishing, delicious, and made with care.

To learn more or arrange a visit to The Firs, please get in touch.
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Care Provided

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia
  • Mental Health Condition
  • Physical Disability
  • Visual / Hearing Impairment

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 48 Service Users

Dementia Care Types

  • Mild Dementia
  • Moderate Dementia
  • Advanced/Complex Dementia

Other Care Provided

  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Stroke
  • Palliative / End of Life Care
  • COPD/Pulmonary Disease
  • Convalescent Care
  • Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
  • Day Care

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Close to Local shops
  • Near Public Transport
  • Lift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Television point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

  • Self-Funded Residential Care: from £1450
  • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: from £1450
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care: from £1450
  • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care: from £1450

These prices are only a guideline, please contact The Orchards Residential Home 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

Person in charge

  • Julie Beale (Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Criteria

  • Referral/Assessment
  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: No
  • Last Refurbishment: 2017
  • Number of floors: 3

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (47)
  • Couples/Companion Rooms (0)
  • Single Rooms with Ensuite Wet Room (2)

Visiting

  • Protected mealtimes.

Parking

  • Car park to front of the home.

The Orchards Residential Home Reviews (71)

9.9

The Orchards Residential Home has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.920) out of 10, based on 21 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time The Orchards Residential Home has 71 reviews.

Overall Experience
  • 56
  • 12
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Date Published
  • 71
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Reviewer Connection to The Orchards Residential Home
  • 23
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Total of 71, showing 1-20
Review from P M (Wife of Resident) published on 1 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
It is good to see the residents have a lot of actives they can get involved with.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for your review. I will pass this onto our staff.

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Review from Natalie B (Friend of Resident) published on 1 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Amazing place. Fantastic care for residents. Very entertaining relaxing home. Staff are exceptional.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time t review our residents home. I will pass your comments on to our team.

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Review from P T (Son of Resident) published on 20 August 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Mum was quite challenging when she arrived at the Orchards. The team there worked very hard to return her to calm person mum still has her challenged but every member of staff whether ther carer or otherwise are extremely tolerant and easy going not a situation we were used to. When mum is well she
is extremly happy at The Orchards but she is always safe, well looked after and cared for.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our residents care home.I will pass your comments onto the team.

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Review from Mary W (Wife of Resident) published on 20 August 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The care received was excellent, entertainment I cannot fault. Everyone seem to be happy in their respective duties.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our residents care home - I will pass your comments onto the team.

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Review from Katrina J (Daughter of Resident) published on 15 August 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Had a lovely day, food was delicious, puddings were lovely. All staff happy, joining in. Making sure all residents were included and ok. The decorations + bunting (home made) were a nice touch pictures shared on social media showing staff & residents making stuff. This is a wonderful care home all year
around, staff are always helpful & friendly & its clean all residents are cared for with dignity and love.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you so much for taking the time to review our residents home. We are so glad everyone had a great day.

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Review from Karen T (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 15 August 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My mother in law was very distressed when she arrived at the Orchards. They have all worked really hard with her and she's now in a better place. She remains a chalenge but they help her through it and reasure us when we need it. We are always made to feel very welcome.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our residents home. I will pass your comments on to our team.

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Review from S E (Daughter of Resident) published on 15 August 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The Orchards is a warm friendly home. My father is very well cared for, especially as his conditions have deteriorated. I do not live locally and it is very reassuring to know he is very well cared for. The staff are approachable, and look after my dad exceptionally well. I'm always kept informed of
how he is and whenever there are problems as well as when everything goes well.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our residents home.I will pass your comments onto the team.

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Review from Mike J (Son of Resident) published on 12 August 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Great care home, staff are fantastic and my Mum always seems happy and well cared.
It's nice that all staff seem to know my Mum and she seems very in their company
When we visit staff always bring us chairs and we're often offered a drink as we usually visit on Sunday afternoons
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our home. As a team we are so glad your Mum is settled and happy. The team are always very happy to accommodate family where we can.

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Review from Michell Y (Daughter of Resident) published on 23 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff at the home have provided Mum with a safe, happy, welcoming environment since she became a resident in August 2024.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you Michell, the team welcome your review and are very glad that your Mum is settling well into her new home.

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Review from S M (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My mum moved into The Orchards back in August after being diagnosed with dementia earlier this year. At first, I was very sad that Mum had moved into a care home, but I knew that it was for the best. Now, after five months at The Orchards, it's the best decision we could have made. Mum has settled in
very well. The staff are brilliant, Mum is very well looked after 24 hours a day. The care home and staff make you feel very welcome whenever you visit, nothing is too much for them. Well done and a big thank you.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Hello S, thank you for taking the time to review our care home. The team are really happy to have your Mum with us. Thank you

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Review from Christine C (Daughter-in-law of Resident) published on 12 December 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My husband's stepmother was cared for very well at The Orchards. She was treated with courtesy, friendliness and affection. Staff were helpful and supportive of us as a family, and the staffing levels were consistently high. A choice of comfortable lounges meant that sitting in the communal areas was
an option for everyone. The Orchards is a well-run home from home; alas Stepmum wasn't well on arrival and couldn't really benefit from the lovely garden and excellent activities but was safe and comfortable in her last months. Food was always well prepared, nutritious and tempting!
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you Chris for taking the time to review our home at this sad time for you and your family. I will share your review with our team. Thank you again.

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Review from Helen N (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Dad's life has turned around since he moved into The Orchards. He has put some weight back on, his skin condition and colour have improved and we are seeing sparks of his old personality and humour. He has made friends and is joining in with some of the activities, which I think are outstanding. Life
has really improved for the family too - we have complete confidence in the staff. It's a huge relief to know that he is safe and happy.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our home. We are so please your Dad has settled into the home and is starting to enjoy his new surroundings and making friends. I will pass on your review to our team.

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Review from G W (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
As a family, we are so happy we chose The Orchards for Mum. For 5 years, we felt Mum was well cared for and loved by The Orchards team. Felt Mum made some good friends whilst she was there.
Always felt welcome, and we have some good memories of happy times, fun and laughter with Mum and cups of tea!
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you. Your Mum was such a character and it was an honour for the team to care or your Mum.

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Review from Sandra W (Stepdaughter of Resident) published on 21 May 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
This is an amazing home. My stepmum is so well looked after. Nothing is too much trouble for the carers. The activities are sincerely awesome. So much for her to do and enjoy. We have left knowing she is well looked after and very contented to be at The Orchards.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review the home, care and activities. We, as a team, are very glad to see your review.

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Review from S S (Son of Resident) published on 27 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A great home with a big heart!
Mum spent the last 2 years of her life here and enjoyed the warmth and support of staff and fellow residents alike. She enjoyed the community feel of the main lounge where the vibrant and attentive activities team showed love, attention and encouragement even when Mum
was having a down day. I always felt welcome and nothing was ever too much trouble for the care team. I commend those in housekeeping, catering and maintenance services who provided superb support 24/7.
I live a few hours away and I greatly appreciated being able to call at any time of day and night - the whole management team at The Orchards should be congratulated for the caring culture and family environment which they have created - it has not happened by accident!
My sister and I visited the home the day after Mum passed away (at the hospital) - there were tears, hugs, cakes and laughter as we remembered together Mum's 2 years at The Orchards. Thank you all so much.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

It was a pleasure for the whole team to look after your late Mum and get to know you and your Mum's family. Thank you for taking the time to review our resident's home at this very difficult time for you all. I will pass your comments on to the whole team.

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Review from H W (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 March 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I find the home very welcoming, warm and friendly. The reception staff are very helpful if you have any questions or concerns.
The care staff are very good with my mum, they always greet her with a smile and have a laugh with her, which shows that they have my mum's well-being at heart.
The entertainment
is fun, and they always encourage my mum to join in with the activities.
All the staff at The Orchards are excellent and very hard-working.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our resident's care home. The team are so pleased you are happy with your lovely mum's care. I will pass on your comments to the team.

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Review from S W (Wife of Resident) published on 17 January 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our experience at The Orchards has been excellent from the first day of my husband's care. As a family, we were so anxious about my husband and their father having to go into care. We were welcomed with open arms and kindness. There are always entertaining things for the residents and peacefulness if
they prefer. Nothing is too much trouble.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our care home. It is always very difficult for families moving loved ones into a care environment. Please speak to me or the senior team if you have any ideas/suggestions for your husband's care.

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Review from Stephen L (Son of Resident) published on 6 December 2023 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
When Mum arrived at the home over 4 years ago, we thought it very likely that she would be very unsettled and miserable. The amazing staff showed so much love, care and attention that she surprised us, settling in so well. The staff were amazing in their level of care, and it was so comforting to know
that she was safe and being looked after to a very high standard. The home suppressed itself during the difficult period with COVID and I have so much respect for all of the staff. Thank you again, we couldn't have found anywhere better for Mum's declining years.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our home at this sad time for you.
Your mum was a wonderful lady and we, as a team, are very proud of the care we give to your Mum and all our residents.
It was a pleasure looking after your wonderful Mum.

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Review from L W (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 18 October 2023 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The Orchards is a very warm, welcoming and nurturing environment. Staff are very friendly, caring and incredibly hardworking; they have attended to all my nan's needs - nothing is too much trouble. We are so pleased with how well Nan has settled in and with the care she received. Thank you to everyone
for all their hard work and dedication.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

Thank you for taking the time to review our home. We are so glad your Nan has settled into her new environment within the home and with other residents.
I will pass on your comments to the staff.

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Review from C C (Daughter of Resident) published on 4 October 2023 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I was concerned when my mother came into the care home, daughter's concern. As I have found I need not have worried. The staff are lovely. Nothing is too much trouble. My mum is so secure and has fitted in well as she feels so safe. Mum's routine is good and it is showing diabetes controlled. Well done
to all the at The Orchards.
Reply from Julie Beale, Registered Home Manager at The Orchards Residential Home

I know and understand your worries when your mum first came here. It's teamwork, family and staff, doing the best for your loved one.

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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.920)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.920) out of 10 for The Orchards Residential Home is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.9 out of 5 from 21 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 21 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 4.920 for The Orchards Residential Home is calculated as follows: ( (231 Excellents x 5) + (20 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 251 Ratings = 4.92
  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 The Orchards Residential Home is based on 21 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 48 registered maximum number of service users is 9.6, which has been reached with 21 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: 16 Feb 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 (3)

Meet the Team (1)

Julie

Julie Beale

Job Title: Registered Manager Joined: 2018

Julie originally trained as a nurse in Surrey before moving back to Swindon in 1987 after meeting her husband. She has over 30 years of nursing experience with the past 20 years in care homes as a nurse, a clinical lead, deputy manager and manager. She has numerous qualifications including RN2, Mentor - Northampton University, NVQ Assessor and Leadership and Management Level 5. Her passion is Elderly Care - especially
Dementia and End of Life care. Julie has a very open and honest approach and puts our residents first at all times giving compassion not only to our residents, but to their families as well.
She has an 'open door policy' and is a firm believer that the Orchards is our residents' home.
In her free time, she loves to spend time with family and friends, walk her dogs and read.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Orchards Residential Home

What types of Care is The Orchards Residential Home registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Mental Health Condition, Physical Disability & Visual / Hearing Impairment are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does The Orchards Residential Home have?

There are 47 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at The Orchards Residential Home?

Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Smoking not permitted, Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Lift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Residents Kitchenette, Phone Point in own room, Television point in own room & Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is The Orchards Residential Home to the centre of Swindon?

2.5 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 The Orchards Residential Home to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. The Orchards Residential Home has an Enhanced Service - more info.