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Merlewood

Hollow Lane, Virginia Water, Surrey GU25 4LR
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Merlewood, Virginia Water
Merlewood, Virginia Water
Merlewood, Virginia Water

Merlewood Nursing & Residential Home is a converted Victorian house with bedrooms purpose-built all on the ground floor for nursing and elderly care needs, located within 23-acre grounds and surrounded by the picturesque Surrey landscape.

The service keeps close links with related health services, including hospices, GPs in order to ensure personal care packages remain updated and effective to each individual.

Many trips, outings and events are organised as part of the...  

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Care Provided by Merlewood

Primary Care Categories

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

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 54 Service Users

Other Care Provided

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

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Close to Local shops
  • Near Public Transport
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Ground Floor Accommodation only
  • Gardens
  • Bar/Café
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Television point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

Type of carePermanentRespite
Residential CareFrom £1,950From £2,050
Nursing CareFrom £2,375From £2,475

Contact Merlewood 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

Group / Owner

Person in charge

  • Debbie Vellender (General Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Information

  • Ages 65+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes
  • Last Refurbishment: 2022
  • Number of floors: 1

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (54)

Visiting

  • The home have an open visiting policy.

Parking

  • Ample parking on site and disabled parking by the entrance.

Merlewood Reviews (103)

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9.8

Merlewood has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.782) out of 10, based on 31 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Merlewood has 103 reviews.

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Showing 103 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from Anne F (Daughter of Resident) published on 7 April 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My mother has been living at Merlewood for nearly 18 years. The attention to her care has been excellent throughout.
The staff have always been very caring, and keep in contact with me over all issues relating to her care.
What is exceptional I find is that most of the staff have been working there for many years, ensuring that a good relationship is built up with the residents.

I cannot recommend Merlewood more highly also thank you to the management.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking time to complete this review and share the experiences of your mother and yourself during her long stay at Merlewood.

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Review from R R (Daughter of Resident) published on 6 March 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

On arrival, you are met by friendly, helpful, smiling, and cooperative staff. I have met the full spectrum of staff from senior manager to hairdresser, nursing staff, carers, entertainers, gardeners, general maintenance, chefs, cooks, housekeepers, cleaners, the visiting GP and no doubt many more. All of them have been excellent. It feels like a home/hotel set in beautiful grounds. The food is very tasty. The visiting physiotherapist has helped my mother's pain and shown great care. Thank you to all.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking time to review Merlewood, we are glad that your parent's move has been a positive experience.

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Review from P E (Wife of Resident) published on 29 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
After 2 months in hospital with severe pneumonia, I felt my husband needed some general rehabilitation, exercise and a routine to encourage his motivation before returning home with a care package. This, we found at Marlewood. I hoped to have him home before Christmas, our sons were visiting from overseas, for a couple of weeks, but another chest infection caused me to put out plans on hold, disappointing for all of us. My husband was well cared for in the safety of the care home. Earlier the home had helped us celebrate our Diamond Wedding Anniversary, as were many other relatives to join in with the various planned seasonal celebrations and activities. This made for a memorable happy time for my husband, our sons and myself.

#With many thanks to Merlewood, all it's staff who were understanding, helpful, kind and polite. Well done Merlewood.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to review the care and your husband's time at Merlewood. It was an honour to be involved in your wedding anniversary celebration.

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Review from S W (Wife of Resident) published on 28 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

This is a wonderful caring home, it is very welcoming and every member of staff so helpful. (I felt I would like to move in!) Nothing was too much trouble.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for finding time to leave a lovely review. I am glad we met all your expectations.

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Review from J E (Son of Resident) published on 24 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My father was a short-term resident while transferring from hospital and before going home, The staff were all very friendly and supportive as well as competent and caring. The environment is conducive to building a community feeling and has enough space for multiple different activities to take place. Thank you for your care.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to review the time your father spent at Merlewood. We are pleased he enjoyed his stay.

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Review from Bernard E (Son of Resident) published on 21 January 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I found my dad to be very well cared for by a friendly team of nurses and caregivers in a comfortable, well-managed and maintained facility. He had lots of friendly engagements and interactions with the staff and other residents throughout his stay.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to review the care and service we provide at Merlewood and sharing lovely comments and thoughts.

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Review from Wendy D (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 January 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Well, what can I say, but a big thank you, for being so understanding of not only our mother's needs, but ours as well. Always a cuddle on offer and the staff are so willing to comfort with kindness when needed. I feel part of the family here, and I know my sister feels the same. We chose the best place ever to leave our Mum, as the care is more than outstanding!
Well done to you all for all your dedication and hard work, well deserving of all the praise.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Reply from Claire Davis, Home Administrator at Merlewood

Thank you for your lovely review. We are so pleased that you are so happy with your mother's care and very much appreciate your taking the time to review us.

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Review from P C (Niece of Resident) published on 13 January 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Happy we chose Merlewood for my uncle. The admission process was quick and efficient. It has a friendly and homely atmosphere, the staff are helpful and encouraging. I'm updated on any medical issues. There's a wide range of activities, he particularly enjoys the weekly quiz and exercise class. His room is light and comfortable with a courtyard view.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for reviewing our home and we are really pleased your uncle is settled and enjoying the home and all we have to offer.

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Review from A J (Daughter of Resident) published on 24 December 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Both my parents are at Merlewood Care Home. I think that it is a wonderful Care Home, with very caring. hardworking and talented staff who do everything possible to ensure the safety, well-being and happiness of the residents. Merlewood is very well managed. There is a lovely atmosphere at home and enjoy going there to visit my parents there. There is always a real buzz to the place and a warm welcome. If you join my parents for lunch the food is always delicious, with a very good choice of menus. The nurses and carers are excellent and very attentive. In all fields, if you have any requests or need to raise issues, they are always promptly addressed, and there is flexibility. The grounds are wonderful and some rooms have a garden or courtyard view. There are activities in the morning and afternoon each day and also outings, fairs and parties. Merlewood provided a beautiful room for us to celebrate my Mum's 90th birthday and provided the food, cake and fabulous decorations at a very reasonable rate. I am grateful to the staff for their excellent care and support.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to complete this review and to share your thoughts and experiences to assist others looking for care.

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Review from M B (Resident / Service User) published on 3 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
I came here early in September and in the bathroom found that the toilet only flushed when it felt like it. After 3 weeks, new parts were obtained and fitted (thank goodness). In the basin, the plug hole is disgusting and cannot be fixed. I cannot plug in my toothbrush i.e. bathroom not good.

The food is not good either and breakfast and supper were brought to my room with things missing and not as requested. Food in the dining room was not special at all, very disappointing. I've come from another care home which was excellent.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for your feedback, I am sorry Merlewood appears to have not met your expectations. I have reviewed your comments. I am sorry that you feel the meal experience wasn't what you expected. I understand that you met with the kitchen team several times, we want to support you to enjoy your...  

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Review from R T (Resident / Service User) published on 24 September 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I have been very well cared for and the staff show me every kindness. The residents have also been kind and welcoming. I have been supported where necessary and allowed to do things for myself when that has been possible and as I have become stronger during my convalescence. I have nothing but praise for the care staff in particular.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. It was a pleasure to see you recover well and able to return home.

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Review from Nicola C (Daughter of Resident) published on 11 June 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Merlewood is a friendly place where the staff go out of their way to look after my mother. The staff made it possible for our whole family to visit to celebrate my mother's 100th and 101st birthday. My mother is happy here and I am grateful that she is so well looked after.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for reviewing Merlewood. We are proud to treat all residents as family and enjoy helping celebrate special occasions.

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Review from David B (Son of Resident) published on 4 June 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My mum spent the last two and a half years of her life at Merlewood and was very well looked after during this period. The staff are very friendly, professional and caring and always kept me updated on any issues with my mum's health and general well-being. The home is well run, very clean, has good facilities and is set in lovely gardens. My only small gripe was the quality/consistency of the food as there seemed to be quite a turnover of chefs at the home. But overall I would definitely recommend Merlewood and am grateful to the staff for the kindness they showed Mum during her time there.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for your review. I will share it with the team. It was an honour to care for your mum. We have been working closely with the senior team to recruit a chef.

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Review from Lorna J (Daughter of Resident) published on 29 April 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My mother moved to Merlewood initially for company and activities. She really enjoyed meeting others and joining in all the activities provided. Her room was spacious, well-maintained and equipped and was in a lovely setting with views over the garden. The staff were wonderful - compassionate, attentive, nothing was too much trouble. They provided excellent nursing and residential care, always kind, treating my mother with dignity. I am very grateful for the exceptional care my mother received which gave me great peace of mind, particularly as she deteriorated. I would highly recommend Merlewood to anyone.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to review Merlewood. It was an honour and a pleasure to care for your mother.

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Review from H K (Daughter of Resident) published on 8 December 2023 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
They (NHS and another care home) said our mother was permanently double incontinent and would never walk again. Merlewood proved them wrong from the first week. Within a few short weeks, she was eating regular food, learning to walk to home activities using a frame, and using the toilet. Merelwood treated her with respect, care and humanity. Mum died just short of her 94th birthday due to other health complications - but found a bit of life at Merlewood.

Nothing more to ask for.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

It was lovely to see your mother progress when she arrived. Thank you for taking the time to complete a review.

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Review from Fiona R (Daughter of Resident) published on 16 October 2023 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Prompt admission process. Very caring service. Very warm, caring atmosphere from all staff. No question is too small to ask. Food is amazing, delicious and the portion size is appropriate. Friendly. Encouraging.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

It is always a pleasure to support someone's recuperation. Thank you for taking time to share your experience.

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Review from Jean P (Resident / Service User) published on 22 September 2023 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I am a new kid on the block and I have only been here five weeks and I am self-caring so I am unable to give you an overall review but what I see and feel, it is a well-run care home.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for your review. We welcome you to Merlewood and making it your home.

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Review from Diana C (Respite Resident) published on 21 September 2023 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

This is my third visit in three years - two weeks post-hand operation. On this occasion, live on my own - using crutches due to spinal problems. Most staff are very helpful and service is good. Breakfast orders are a problem - rarely get items ordered, especially on weekends. Room is basic but comfortable. Mirror in bedroom would be helpful.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to review your time with us, your comments will be shared with the teams. The concern about breakfast orders were addressed during your stay as soon as we were aware. We will look into getting mirrors for a few rooms currently without them.

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Review from N A (Husband of Resident) published on 21 July 2023 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Comfortable room, attentive staff.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you taking time to complete the review. I am pleased your wife has settled well at Merlewood.

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Review from Les H (Son of Resident) published on 21 July 2023 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My mother moved into Merlewood recently and is very happy with her residence here. The staff are wonderful and nothing is any trouble. They are always compassionate, smiling and friendly. Her room is always clean!

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for your lovely words and comments. I am so pleased your mum feels at home here.

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Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 22 May 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 (0) & Events (0)

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Awards / Recognitions (4)

Accreditations

There are no accreditations posted yet for Merlewood.

Meet the Team (6)

Debbie Vellender
Debbie VellenderJob Title General ManagerJoined 2013

Debbie trained as a nurse at St George’s Hospital, Tooting and Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton in the 90s. This was followed by over 20 years of nursing in the NHS, mainly within Medical and Elderly care, working her way to the position of Advanced (Clinical) Site Practitioner at a large local hospital. It was during this time that Debbie’s passion for care of the elderly blossomed, along with the personal fulfilment of getting to know people in her care and their families.

Debbie moved into Social Care at Merlewood in 2013 as Deputy/Clinical Care Manager to use her skills and experience in a different aspect of elderly medical care. In 2019, Debbie became General Manager of the home. Debbie gets huge satisfaction from leading a team of like-minded, compassionate individuals; Merlewood residents and staff have become a second family to her.

Pat Murphy
Pat MurphyJob Title Clinical Care Manager - Deputy ManagerJoined 2015
I started my nursing career at 'The Berkshire College of Nursing and Midwifery' in 1992, I qualified in 1995.
After qualifying as a nurse, I worked in various hospitals but predominantly in the cardiology departments.

I eventually left the NHS after 15 years to pursue a career in the care home sector.

Initially, I was employed as a Deputy Manager, but soon I was promoted to the General Manager.

I came to work at Merlewood as the Unit Manager on McAlpine in 2015. I loved the role and the home, but left for a promotion.

However, I returned to Merlewood as the Clinical Care Manager in April 2022.

Working at Merlewood Care Home is so satisfying. The staff and residents are very special people.

Molly Horne
Molly HorneJob Title Hotel Services ManagerJoined 2022

After leaving school, I completed a chef apprenticeship with Compass Group, where I gained experience in recipe development and had the opportunity to work at high-profile events such as Wimbledon and The Brit Awards.

I went on to further my career as the lead hospitality chef at Brunel University and then Roehampton Golf Course before taking on the role of Bar and Café Manager. This shift to a more management-focused position led me to my role with EFH as the Hotel Services Manager at Merlewood, where I now oversee the Housekeeping and Catering teams.

My role focuses on ensuring that our residents receive the best possible service from each of my departments every day.

Tony
Tony Job Title Maintenance OfficerJoined 2023

I look after a small maintenance crew that maintains Merlewood’s incredible 23-acre gardens and supports our 54 residents.

I thoroughly enjoy my varied work here at Merlewood Care Home — every day is different and satisfying in so many ways.

Our maintenance team ensures the building, grounds, and equipment are safe, functional, and comfortable for both residents and staff. I always recognise that this is our residents’ home, and my goal is to help them enjoy the comforts they deserve while our team quietly takes care of the chores in the background.

Karen Slater
Karen SlaterJob Title Weekday ReceptionistJoined 2024

I am the weekday receptionist here at Merlewood Care Home. I am new to the care sector.

I really enjoy my job. I take pride in welcoming residents, visitors and families, offering support and kindness every day.

This year, I was nominated by my line manager and won the award for 'Best Care newcomer - South'.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family (especially my grandchildren), gardening, walking and catching up with friends over coffee.

Sue Stroud
Sue StroudJob Title Community LeadJoined 2024
I have worked in the care sector for nearly 20 years. It's a very rewarding industry to work in.
I specialise in Sales and Marketing. I have taken many courses to improve my skills and knowledge.
I initially started my career in recruitment, owning several recruitment agencies before I moved to the Hotel Industry as a Sales and Marketing manager, eventually becoming a Sales Director for a small chain of hotels.
I was then 'headhunted' by a care provider and soon realised this was the career path that I thrived in.
Listening and understanding a potential resident's wants and needs for the next chapter of their life is a great honour and a huge responsibility.
I have worked for many of the large corporate providers, but I am currently enjoying working for this fabulous, smaller charity/provider that is resident-led.

Elizabeth Finn is a 'Profit for Purpose' business.

In my spare time, I enjoy my family, friends and walking my large Golden Retriever.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of carehome.co.uk. Please contact Merlewood to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Merlewood has an Enhanced Service -more info.