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The Dower House Nursing Home

Springvale Road, Headbourne Worthy, Winchester, Hampshire SO23 7LD
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My mother was cared for in a dignified and loving manner by all at The Dower HouseL M(Daughter of Resident/Service User)
The Dower House Nursing Home, Winchester
The love and care that was shown to him and us, as a family, were just exceptionalJanie D(Daughter of Resident/Service User)
The Dower House Nursing Home, Winchester
The Dower House Nursing Home, Winchester

The Dower House is set in the picturesque village of Headbourne Worthy, just outside Winchester. Delivering first class residential and nursing care for over 35 years, residents enjoy the relaxed ambience of a luxury country house hotel, set amid beautiful gardens and surroundings.

The home combines homely, designed spaces with state-of-the-art care facilities, ensuring every resident’s comfort and quality of life. Whether staying briefly to recuperate after illness or surgery, or...  

Care Provided by The Dower House Nursing Home

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Physical Disability

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 43 Service Users

Other Care Provided

  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Stroke
  • Palliative / End of Life Care
  • COPD/Pulmonary Disease
  • Bariatric Care/Obesity
  • Convalescent Care

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Close to Local shops
  • Near Public Transport
  • Lift
  • Stairlift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Television point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

Type of carePermanentRespite
Residential Care£1,795 - £2,550£1,795 - £2,500
Nursing Care£2,300 - £3,060£2,500 - £2,500

Additional services are available but charged separately, such as, but not limited to: newspapers, hairdressing, physiotherapy, chiropody, guest meals, alcoholic beverages, dry cleaning and companion for social outings.

Contact The Dower House Nursing Home 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)

Support you may be entitled to

  • If you chose a care home based in England, you may be eligible for NHS Funded Nursing Care (FNC), which helps cover the cost of nursing. This is worth £267.68 per week and is usually paid directly to the care home.

Good to Know

Owner

  • The Dower House Nursing Home LLP
  • Private Owned

Person in charge

  • Celia Bailey and Eleanor Abrams(General Manager and Matron)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Information

  • Mixed (no single-gender units)
  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes
  • Year Purpose Built: 1989
  • Last Refurbishment: 2003
  • Number of floors: 2

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (42)
  • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (7)

Visiting

  • The Dower House welcomes visitors and family, relatives and friends are welcome any time. Usual office hours are best for show rounds, but other times can easily be arranged by appointment if it is difficult to visit during office hours.

Parking

  • Free parking is available at The Dower House.

The Dower House Nursing Home Reviews (35)

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9.7

The Dower House Nursing Home has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.674) out of 10, based on 15 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time The Dower House Nursing Home has 35 reviews.

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Review from R A (Respite Resident) published on 29 July 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
Having been a care home operator myself I found my stay in The Dower House a very satisfying event.
I observed good practice from very kind and caring staff.
Activities were never the top of my thoughts in my rehabilitation programme but it was daily programs that has been a major of my recovery and independence. Ie. walking to and from my bedroom to the dining room.

I have no hesitation in recommending a stay in Dower House.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review. It means a great deal, particularly coming from someone with experience as a care home operator. We are delighted that your stay at The Dower House was such a positive part of your rehabilitation. Our team work hard to...  

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Review from P S (Respite Resident) published on 23 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Following four months in hospital after a major lung operation, it became clear that much of my physical abilities (walking, movement, and the ability to look after myself ) needed to be brought back to a standard that would enable me to be independent. Following advice from the hospital an intermediate step, before returning home, would be advisable.
The Dower House was chosen for a number of reasons. Firstly, all members of Staff were polite, professional and had a sense of humour. Secondly, the gardens are beautiful and extensive with well set out pathways allowing me to walk and recover my fitness. Thirdly, after three months of being fed by tube, meals at the Dower House have been excellent allowing me to recover my appetite and regain some of the weight loss
after my hospital stay. Fourthly, my room was more than adequate in size and comfort.

I have been very well looked after and my recovery at the Dower House has enabled me to return home. It was a great day!

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home
It has been an absolute privilege to support you on your journey from hospital to home. Recovering after such major surgery takes immense determination, and it has been wonderful to see your strength, confidence and independence return during your stay with us.

I know the entire team will be...  

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Review from Rosamond H (Respite Resident) published on 18 June 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Came for respite due to an issue with my leg (femur). I've had a wonderful time at The Dower House and have stayed here before. I've stayed at other homes and hospital and would never stay their again. I love the gardens and conservatory its like being at home.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us.

We are delighted that you enjoyed your respite stay at The Dower House and that you chose to return to us again. It is especially lovely to hear how much you enjoyed our gardens and conservatory. We work hard to create a warm,...  

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Review from M B (Regular Volunteer) published on 17 June 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Three of us from a charity have been volunteering here from about 2018 minus covid and returned coming most Monday mornings for 1 1/2 hours to knit natter and a drink in the conservatory. We are most welcome by staff and residents.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home
Thank you so much for your kind review and for the time, skill and friendship that you and your fellow volunteers have brought to The Dower House over the years.

Our Knit and Natter mornings are always looked forward to by residents, and the warmth, conversation, and sense of community you create...  

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Review from Lorna B (Regular Volunteer) published on 8 June 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I visit Dower House month as a volunteer with my therapy dog. From these visits I've seen a great number of activities organised for residents, brilliant compassionate care from staff and a well looked after home. Residents all have spacious, clean rooms and the grounds are beautifully kept. I would definitely recommend.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home
Thank you for your wonderful feedback and for the time you give to our residents as a volunteer. We are delighted to hear that your visits with your therapy dog have given you such a positive impression of The Dower House. The residents always enjoy your visits.

It is particularly pleasing to hear...  

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Review from A D (Friend of Resident) published on 8 June 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

It is very difficult to answer the tick boxes because things are improving very fast. The atmosphere in general has hugely improved. Clearly individual staff vary so a general cover all box is impossible to do! Similarly one box to cover rooms is ridiculous - the rooms vary. Overall I think my friend is adequately well cared for and would hope to see the current upward trend maintained.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home
Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. We are delighted to hear that you have noticed such a significant improvement in the atmosphere within the home and that the positive changes taking place are being recognised.

We completely understand your comments regarding the survey questions. Every...  

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Review from Giles R (Respite Resident) published on 6 May 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

First class in all respects.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home
Thank you for your very kind words and for taking the time to share your experience with us.

To hear that you feel The Dower House is "first class in all respects" is truly wonderful and means a great deal to everyone here. Our aim is always to create a home where you feel comfortable, supported,...  

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Review from Ian P (Respite Resident) published on 30 April 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Excellent care following replacement hip operation. Friendly and caring staff.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you for your kind words. We are so pleased to hear that your recovery following your hip surgery was supported by our friendly and caring team. It means a great deal to us to know you felt well looked after during your stay. We wish you continued health and a smooth recovery at home.

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Review from L S (Respite Resident) published on 20 February 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
I was in The Dower House from 24 October - 23 December 2025. After nearly three months in hospital I was discharged still needing IV antibiotics and unable to walk so came to Dower House for short-term respite care.
I cannot over-emphasize how kind and supportive everyone was. The staff always had time for a chat and no request was too much. Although it was winter, I appreciated the five acres of beautiful gardens and my husband, who visited every day, was always made welcome.
The kitchen provided home-cooked, nutritious food and the activity organiser made sure there was something going on morning and afternoon. This was home for the other residents and they spoke highly of it. I joined in as many activities as I could.

I left two days before Christmas, able to walk upright and free of IV drips. I continue to recover at home.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience following your stay at The Dower House.

We are truly delighted to hear that you felt supported, comfortable and well cared for during your recovery with us. Moving from hospital into short-term respite can be a significant transition,...  

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Review from S S (Daughter of Resident) published on 30 January 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Such a wonderful caring place where everyone really goes the extra mile. The staff are friendly, professional and highly competent and the team work shows. It's a lovely environment more like a hotel, the food is exceptional & creative as well as tasty. My father was able to have a fridge (for wine & beer) & a large TV installed. Nothing is too much trouble & because there's no 'dementia wing' this is a truly home like place to be. I highly recommend it.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and generous review. We're incredibly proud of our team, and it means a great deal to hear that their care, professionalism and teamwork make such a positive difference to your father's experience. Creating a truly homely environment...  

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Review from P D (Daughter of Resident) published on 21 November 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

All areas of The Dower House Nursing Home are exemplary. The stardard of every member of their staff is very high. Everyone I encounter is pleasant and helpful. The whole property, inside and out, is always kept very clean and tidy. Also the food is outstanding.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you so much for your kind words. It means a great deal to all of us that you find the staff, the home and the food to be of such a high standard. We take real pride in keeping The Dower House welcoming, clean and friendly, and your feedback really does mean a lot to the whole team.

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Review from A L (Daughter of Resident) published on 12 November 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I cannot praise The Dower House enough. Their holistic approach to care together with excellent nursing is admirable. The Dower House really does feel like home not only for the residents but also their relatives. The staff are so friendly and caring, the surroundings are beautiful and accessible doing much to enhance the well being of the residents. My mother had a long stay in hospital and The Dower House team did a fantastic job building up her strength through encouragement and care over a six week such that she is now home and managing very well. The activities were well pitched and much to my surprise Mum joined in quite few of them and really enjoyed them.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review. We are truly delighted to hear that your mother felt at home with us and that our team were able to support her recovery after her hospital stay. Our aim is always to provide holistic, person-centred care in a calm, welcoming...  

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Review from Ann J (Daughter of Resident) published on 1 October 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

As a retired nurse, who had a poor experience of care homes regarding my mother when has now died: I needed an exceptional care home for my 97 yr old father. I chose The Dower House, as it is exceptional in everyway. The management are first class, the staff well trained, room and outer areas - always clean, no smells, the residents are treated with loving respect, no sitting in circles with no stimulation. I would recommend this home 100% there is no better.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you so much for sharing your kind words and for placing your trust in us during such an important decision for your father's care. We are truly honored by your recommendation and delighted to know that our team's efforts have given you confidence and peace of mind. Providing a safe,...  

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Review from J W (Daughter of Resident) published on 25 September 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My mother has been resident at the Dower House since February 2021. The. Home provides a pleasant homely environment. All staff are friendly, courteous and caring.

Over the past few months we have received excellent support from Matron and the home manager through a very stressful situation which has resulted with an excellent outcome.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you for your kind words. We are glad we were able to support you and your mother during this time and that the outcome was the one we all hoped for. We look forward to continuing to support you all in the future.

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Review from Jane T (Cousin of Resident) published on 23 September 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My cousin was sadly diagnosed with terminal cancer and spent a few weeks towards the end of her life in the Dower House. The staff were very kind, caring and professional. They did all they could to manage her pain and give her a peaceful stay. I would recommend them highly.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you for your kind words. It was a privilege to look after her during her time with us. We wish you and the family well.

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Review from K B (Son of Resident) published on 20 June 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

The home was welcoming to families and residents. A fantastic team took great care of my father enabling him to return to his home sooner than anticipated. Wonderful food and activities made this is a great place. Thank you to all.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you for your kind words. We hope your father's recovery continues well.

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Review from L M (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 May 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My mother was cared for in a dignified and loving manner by all at The Dower House during her final years. The attention to detail and personal care was outstanding. I was given a bed in her room for her final days and all my needs were also met. The team go above and beyond to ensure comfort and care for not only the residents but their families too.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you for your kind review. I am so glad that you felt that your needs were met alongside those of your lovely mother. We will all miss her greatly and we wish you and your family well for the future.

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Review from J S (Friend of Resident) published on 8 May 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

This was my first visit to The Dower House. The overall impression was one of kindness to the clients, a very well-run organisation with plenty of smiling and happy staff members. We enjoyed a simple well generated and presented lunch. The grounds are beautiful and very well maintained.

Reply from Celia Bailey, Manager at The Dower House Nursing Home

I am glad you enjoyed your visit to The Dower House and our lovely grounds. We look forward to welcoming you back.

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Review from Janie D (Daughter of Resident) published on 31 January 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My father received end-of-life care at The Dower House Nursing Home. The love and care that was shown to him and us, as a family, were just exceptional. Thank you for making a difficult time a little easier.

Reply from Eleanor Abrams, Matron at The Dower House Nursing Home

Thank you for your kind words, we wish you and your family well.

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Review from Lee B (Husband of Resident) published on 25 January 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My wife has been staying at The Dower House Nursing Home now for the last two weeks and I must say the level of care is of the highest standard.

The accommodation is stunning and the food is of the highest level with a vast and varied menu to suit all. I sleep well knowing that my loved one is being looked after and all her needs are being met to the standard I’d expect for someone who I love dearly.

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Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 29 November 2019
Overall
Good
  • CaringGood
  • EffectiveGood
  • ResponsiveGood
  • SafeGood
  • Well-ledGood
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.

News (3) & Events (0)

News
  • 26 Jun 2026

    A former British Aerospace employee and resident at The Dower House in Winchester, Miss Patricia Elliott, has relived her love of fast cars - reaching speeds of over 130mph in...

  • 19 Jun 2026

    The Dower House welcomed some very special visitors recently as alpacas from Solomon Alpacas spent the afternoon roaming the beautiful gardens of The Dower House, creating smiles, laughter, and plenty...

  • 08 Apr 2026

    A community Easter egg hunt was held in our beautiful, sunny gardens of the Dower House Residential and Nursing Home in Headbourne Worthy, Winchester. Children were greeted by a giant...

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events for The Dower House Nursing Home.

Awards / Recognitions (0)

There are currently no awards/recognitions posted yet for The Dower House Nursing Home.

Meet the Team (6)

Celia Bailey
Celia BaileyJob Title:General ManagerJoined: 2021

As the General Manager of The Dower House Nursing Home, I firmly believe that every resident should be involved in all decisions relating to their care and should have as many opportunities as possible to live life as actively and independently as they choose. Whilst ensuring they receive the highest quality nursing care when needed.

As the Manager, it is also my responsibility to ensure the service is running in accordance with the various laws pertaining to running a care home – primarily, regulations from the CQC under their inspections framework and equally importantly, for the Health and Safety management of the building and all the safety regulations relating to it.

I am supported in this role by our Matron, who oversees all the medical needs of our residents and manages the RGNs and Carers.

Eleanor Abrams
Eleanor AbramsJob Title:MatronJoined: 2022

I joined the Dower House Nursing Home as Matron and registered manager in September 2022. I have had a full and varied nursing career for just over 40 years in the NHS and the Private sector.

As the Matron of The Dower House Nursing home, I firmly believe that every resident should receive person-centred care and be involved in all decisions relating to their care. All residents should have the opportunity to live life as actively and independently as they choose. Whilst ensuring they receive the highest quality nursing care when needed.

As the Matron, it is also my responsibility to ensure the clinical services are run in accordance with the various quality standards and governance pertaining to running a Nursing home, regulations from the CQC under their inspection framework.

I am supported in this role by a great team, ensuring the highest standards of care and service are delivered.

My door is always open if you have any questions or queries.

Iwona Rudnicka
Iwona RudnickaJob Title:Housekeeping ManagerJoined: 2023

Our Housekeeping Manager brings over 20 years of professional expertise to the team, including a wealth of experience gained in prestigious 5-star hotels. With a strong background in delivering the highest standards of cleanliness, organisation, and attention to detail, she ensures our care home provides a safe, welcoming, and homely environment for all residents. Her leadership, combined with her passion for excellence, helps create a warm atmosphere where residents can truly feel at home.

Meryl Pearce
Meryl PearceJob Title:Head CookJoined: 2010

Our Head Cook has been a valued part of our care home for over 15 years, bringing a wealth of experience from leading kitchens in top hotels. Passionate about British and seasonal produce, she takes pride in creating delicious, home-cooked meals tailored to the needs and tastes of our residents. With specialist knowledge in nutrition for the elderly, she ensures every dish is not only flavourful but also supports health and wellbeing. Her dedication makes mealtimes a highlight of daily life in our home.

Ben Weatherall
Ben WeatherallJob Title:Head GardenerJoined: 2015

Our Gardener has been caring for our grounds for over 10 years, lovingly maintaining 5 acres of beautiful gardens for residents, families, and visitors to enjoy. With extensive knowledge and a passion for plants, he creates vibrant seasonal displays and thoughtfully tends to the patio pots that residents treasure. Always ready for a friendly chat while working outdoors, he’s a familiar and much-loved presence who helps make our gardens a place of relaxation, joy, and connection.

Darren Mitchell
Darren MitchellJob Title:Site ManagerJoined: 2020

Our Site Manager plays a vital role in keeping our home safe, comfortable, and welcoming for everyone. As well as expertly maintaining the building, he is always on hand to help residents with practical requests — from moving furniture to adjusting pictures — ensuring their rooms feel truly personal. Known for his willingness to help and approachable nature, he provides invaluable support that makes daily life easier and more enjoyable for residents and their families.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Dower House Nursing Home

What types of Care is The Dower House Nursing Home registered for?

Older Person Care, Physical Disability are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does The Dower House Nursing Home have?

There are 42 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at The Dower House Nursing Home?

Own Furniture if required, Smoking not permitted, Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Lift, Stairlift, 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 The Dower House Nursing Home to the centre of Winchester?

1.7 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 Dower House Nursing Home to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. The Dower House Nursing Home has an Enhanced Service -more info.