






Rated Good in every single area of their Care Quality Commission report (February 2025), Dovecote has a wonderful team of staff who are devoted to enriching the lives of their residents. They provide residential, dementia and respite care, which can be pre-booked.
A warm and welcoming home, it is surrounded by stunning large gardens with wheelchair friendly pathways.
The bedrooms and communal spaces, including light and airy lounges and dining...
Care Provided by Dovecote Residential Care Home
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 61 Service Users
Dementia Care TypesMild Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "mild dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Memory problems such as misplacing items and not be able to recall recent events (however, in some forms of dementia a person's memory may be unchanged)
- Difficulties thinking through problems and planning, making decisions
- Language and communication issues such as finding it difficult to recall the appropriate word in a conversation or following a conversation
- Poor orientation, getting lost in areas previously familiar to them
- Difficulty judging distances (more falls than usual)
- Changes in their normal mood including anxiety and depression
- In certain types of dementia, personality and behaviour changes may be present alongside or instead of issues with memory or concentration.
Moderate Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "moderate dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Worsened memory problems. Not always recognising own family members and friends. Repeating the same questions over and over again
- Worsened language and communication issues, forgetting what they are saying mid-sentence. Not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- More frequent confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Advanced Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "severe dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Severe memory problems. Not recognising family members and friends. Not being able to recall their own name
- Severe language and communication issues, not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- Severe confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Verbally or physically aggressive behaviour
If your loved one displays this type of behaviour you may need a care home that has specially trained staff. Verbal/physical aggression is often defined:
- Consistent shouting and screaming
- Verbal abuse
- Physical abuse
How we define Dementia Care Types
Mild Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "mild dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Memory problems such as misplacing items and not be able to recall recent events (however, in some forms of dementia a person's memory may be unchanged)
- Difficulties thinking through problems and planning, making decisions
- Language and communication issues such as finding it difficult to recall the appropriate word in a conversation or following a conversation
- Poor orientation, getting lost in areas previously familiar to them
- Difficulty judging distances (more falls than usual)
- Changes in their normal mood including anxiety and depression
- In certain types of dementia, personality and behaviour changes may be present alongside or instead of issues with memory or concentration.
Moderate Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "moderate dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Worsened memory problems. Not always recognising own family members and friends. Repeating the same questions over and over again
- Worsened language and communication issues, forgetting what they are saying mid-sentence. Not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- More frequent confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Advanced Dementia
Someone living with our definition of "severe dementia" might experience some or all of the following:
- Severe memory problems. Not recognising family members and friends. Not being able to recall their own name
- Severe language and communication issues, not being able to understand what someone else is saying
- Severe confusion, e.g. about the time of day or where they are, including their own home
- Apathy, depression and anxiety
- Believing things that aren't true (paranoia)
- Frequent hallucinations
- Lack of emotional control, quick to anger, fearfulness, sadness
- Loss of inhibition
- Difficulties sleeping or waking during the night and behaving as though it is daytime - loss of circadian rhythm.
Verbally or physically aggressive behaviour
If your loved one displays this type of behaviour you may need a care home that has specially trained staff. Verbal/physical aggression is often defined:
- Consistent shouting and screaming
- Verbal abuse
- Physical abuse
How we define Dementia Care Types
- Mild Dementia
- Moderate Dementia
Other Care Provided
- Palliative / End of Life Care
- Convalescent Care
Facilities
- Own Furniture if required
- Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
- Close to Local shops
- Near Public Transport
- Minibus or other transport
- Lift
- Wheelchair Access
- Gardens
- Television point in own room
Funding & Fees
Weekly Charges per Person
Our weekly fees are individual to each of our residents and are subject to a pre-admission assessment, which is required to understand the level of care and support needed. Our 2025 weekly care fees for residential care start from £1161, but may be in the region of 30% more*. This depends on your care needs and the type of bedroom that is right for you, from our standard rooms through to our premium bedroom options.
*If you require more specialist care such as 1-2-1 support, your weekly fee could be higher.
The price(s) shown are provided by the care home. Contact Dovecote Residential Care Home for full pricing details and T&Cs.
Contact Dovecote Residential Care 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)
Good to Know
Group / Owner
- Sanctuary Care Ltd
- Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
Person in charge
- Lesley Dawson(Home Manager)
Local Authority / Social Services
Admission Information
- Ages 65+
Care Home Design/Build
- Purpose Built: No
Room Information
- Single Rooms (61)
Dovecote Residential Care Home Reviews (90)
Dovecote Residential Care Home has a Review Score of 9.6 (9.568) out of 10, based on 16 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Dovecote Residential Care Home has 90 reviews.
I book my mother into Dovecote High Spe for respite 12 weeks a year and have always found it very good. I always found it very good. I always feel safe leaving her for the week as the home is lovely and clean, the carers are brilliant, food fantastic and the management very welcoming and caring. I would recommend this home to anyone. Thank you.
Thank you for taking the time to share such positive feedback about Dovecote. We truly appreciate your kind words and are delighted you've had a great experience. It means a great deal to us that you chose to share your thoughts.
Rooms: Clean, all furniture is good.
Food: Food is very good, always hot and fresh. I go every day to feed my mam, would be nice if we were offered a small plate occasionally.
Activities: Seems good if residents are able! My mam isn't so nothing in place for her. We manage to take Mam out in her wheelchair most days but it's just a walk around the streets.
Bath: Have asked many times for a list in Mam's room when she has had a bath. Sick of always having to ask. Sometimes 5 days before Mam has been bathed! Worry about residents who have no family to visit!
Thank you for sharing your feedback. We're pleased to hear your kind comments about the cleanliness of the home, dining experience and welcoming environment. We're saddened to learn that some aspects have not met your expectations. Your feedback is important to us and we take concerns seriously, so we would really encourage you to reach out to the team directly to discuss your experience further.
My mum experienced a number of health challenges related to her dementia, and spent some time in hospital before Christmas. She was eventually discharged, and we were really worried about her. She was bedridden and really thin. Several months later, she is back on her feet, responsive and independently walking around! This has not just happened, it is down to the first-class quality care she has received and attention here. Thank you x
Thank you for sharing such touching feedback. It's wonderful to hear how your mum has regained strength, confidence and independence. Knowing our attentive, personalised approach has supported her progress means a great deal, and we're proud to have played a part in her journey.
The staff, from admin across the 'board', are pleasant and approachable. Residents are treated as individuals and with respect. Any concerns are dealt with understanding. On the negative side, there doesn't appear to be any suitable access to the lawned area. It would be beneficial to those residents, who are able, to enjoy the open space, fresh air.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughtful feedback. We're pleased to hear our team are seen as welcoming, respectful and attentive to individual needs. We're saddened to hear there are aspects you feel could be improved, and we welcome you to reach out to us directly if you would like to discuss them further.
Dovecote Care Home provides an excellent standard of care within a warm, welcoming environment. The staff are caring and attentive, nothing is ever too much trouble. They offer good quality meals that my father-in-law enjoys, also cater to his needs when he fancies something different to the daily menu. Between all staff there is a strong sense of teamwork. Plenty of activities, parties and social events to keep residents active and happy. I would 100% recommend Dovecote Care Home.
Thank you for sharing such lovely feedback. We're delighted to hear your father-in-law feels well cared for and enjoys the welcoming atmosphere, meals and activities. It means so much to know you would recommend us.
Home is very clean staff are excellent at there jobs they phone me with appointments.the staffs interaction with residents is brilliant always doing activities.my own experience in the home is excellent staff always polite nd welcoming if I had other members of family that need care I would recommend dovecote
Thank you for such lovely feedback. We're delighted to hear how clean and welcoming the home feels and that the team's warmth and support have made such a positive impression. It's wonderful to know you would recommend us to others.
My father was in Dovecotes Care for just over 6 months. He had dementia and when it became impossible to look after him at home we had to find somewhere for him quickly, Which the management helped with and got him in the very next day. We were all so grateful for that as my mother could not cope any longer. From the moment he arrived he was looked after so well, he wasn't able to join in most of the activities that happen every day but he loved the variety of singers and the other entertainment that always seems to be on. The care staff are amazing, so kind and caring. They do a very difficult job and they are all so happy and they always have time for a little chat. The home is immaculate, his room was so cosy, my father loved the food, so much choice and always available. Unfortunately my father passed away in Dovecote in December but as a family we are very happy with the care he received. We actually not only miss visiting him but we miss all the staff and other residents.
Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt review. It means so much to hear that your father felt comfortable, cared for and supported during his time with us. Knowing that the team, the experiences and the homely environment brought comfort to your family is truly appreciated.
The care my mother with Alzheimer's has received since becoming a resident last September has been outstanding and she is so much better since being at Dovecote. The staff are amazing and have been great at communicating with myself and my brother. They have also been really good with my dad, who visits every day, and with keeping an eye on him. Can't fault anyone or anything at all.
From the manager to the carers, all staff were extremely kind and caring to both Dad and myself. Nothing was too much bother.
It was a difficult decision to place my husband, who has young onset dementia, into care after a brief respite. It was becoming so very difficult to look after him at home. Dovecote has provided a warm,, safe and caring environment for my husband. The staff are all extremely caring, kind and approachable to help with any concerns I may have. Niggles are addressed with professionalism. The food is outstanding, full marks to the kitchen staff. I am welcome any time of day I visit. Dovecote has been the right decision for us as a couple.
Thank you for sharing such heartfelt feedback. We understand how difficult the decision can be, and we're so pleased to hear that you feel supported and reassured. It's wonderful to know our team and environment have made a positive difference for you both. Your kind words about the care, approachability of the staff, and the quality of the food mean so much to us.
Dovecote has been a first class experience for looking after my mother. The care and dedication from the staff is excellent. My mother is thriving since she has been a patient.
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We are delighted to hear that your mother is thriving and that you have had such a positive experience with Dovecote. Our team works hard to provide the highest standard of care and dedication, so it means a lot to know this has made a difference. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.
My father was placed at Dovecote for respite. Myself and mother were caring for him at home but his behaviour deteriorated when I went overseas, we found the staff at the facility to be so caring, helpful and understanding, we asked to make the respite permanent, and I don't think you can get a better recommendation than that. I myself being a nurse that started my career in a nursing home, understand the pressure the staff are under, but they never seem frustrated and are eager to please the residents and family. I was very impressed.
Thank you for your thoughtful and generous feedback. We are honoured that you entrusted us with your father's care and chose to make his stay permanent. Your recognition, particularly as a healthcare professional, is deeply valued. We are pleased to know our team's compassion and professionalism made a positive impression on both your family and your father.
During my time visiting my Auntie, celebrating her birthday, Auntie appeared relaxed, clean and well cared for. The home was clean and tidy, staff had put a lot of effort in making her birthday special providing a fabulous buffet for all residents and family. Staff very accommodating with support and requests made my family.
Thank you so much for your kind words about Dovecote. We're so glad your Auntie's birthday was a special day and that she looked happy and well cared for. It's wonderful to hear the buffet and support from our team made the celebration enjoyable for your family. We truly appreciate your feedback!
All the staff could not be more helpful towards to residents and their visitors. The staff are really informative regarding how the home is run. Its a pleasure to visit.
Thank you so much for your kind words about Dovecote. We're truly grateful for your feedback and delighted to hear that our team has made such a positive impression. Providing a welcoming and informative environment for both residents and their visitors is something we take great pride in.
All staff are friendly and approachable, home is clean. They have made Dad very welcome and treat him with dignity and respect, it gives us peace of mind that he is being cared for and is safe here.
Thank you for your kind words. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Excellent care was given to my husband. All members of staff were friendly and helpful. I was able to visit at any time of day. Other residents in the sitting room appeared comfortable and cheerful.
Thank you for your kind words for our team at Dovecote. We're so glad to hear that your husband received such excellent care and that you felt so welcome. It's wonderful to know that the friendly atmosphere and cheerful environment were evident during your visits. Your feedback means a lot to our team, thank you.
Excellent care and very professional staff. Very helpful and caring.
Thank you for your five star review for Dovecote, the team will be so pleased to read your comments and scores.
I found my experience as a service user to be very pleasurable and the staff are all solicitous and diligent. The carers themselves are all extremely supportive are helpful in any possible way.
Thank you for your 5 star review, the team at Dovecote will be delighted to read your kind words about their care.
My father initially came into Dovecote for respite care last August. Cutting a long story short, the care he received and the change in him was exceptional. The home itself is like a home from home, lovely and clean and modern decoration makes it feel cosy and homely. Nothing is too much for the management and staff.
Thank you for your review the team at Dovecote will be delighted to read your comments, especially how you and your father felt so at home.
As can be seen by my ratings!
Thank you for your 5* review for Dovecote, the team will be delighted.
Regulatory Rating
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating
Date: 22 October 2024Good
- CaringGood
- EffectiveGood
- ResponsiveGood
- SafeGood
- Well-ledGood
Inspection ratings
We rate most services according to how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led they are, using four levels:
- Outstanding - The service is performing exceptionally well.
- Good - The service is performing well and meeting our expectations.
- Requires Improvement - The service isn't performing as well as it should and we have told the service how it must improve.
- Inadequate - The service is performing badly and we've taken action against the person or organisation that runs it.
- Not rated - we have not yet rated this area of the service, this is normally because the assessments we have carried out have been focused on other key questions.
Bed Vacancies
Please contact us for latest vacancies.
News (2) & Events (0)
- 14 Oct 2025
Residents, their loved ones and staff from Dovecote Residential Care Home in High Spen recently held a community party to celebrate the home's 30th anniversary. The home was filled with...
- 27 Feb 2025
Dovecote has just celebrated a milestone achievement following an impressive report by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). In the recent inspection, our home was graded ‘good’ across five quality indicators:...
There are no upcoming events for Dovecote Residential Care Home.
Awards / Recognitions (9)
- 30 Jan 2026Recipient: Sanctuary Care Ltd
- 31 Jan 2025Recipient: Sanctuary Care Ltd
- 31 Jan 2024Recipient: Sanctuary Care Ltd
Accreditations
There are no accreditations posted yet for Dovecote Residential Care Home.
Meet the Team (8)

I have worked at Dovecote for 7 years and I love the residents. We are a really good team that work so well together.

Working here gives me so much back - it’s very rewarding. I have a good rapport with the residents and it’s great to be part of the team here. I am a very approachable person, and I always have a smile on my face!

Lynne has worked for us at Dovecote since 2021 and 'loves being a part of a big team and being around and spending time with our residents'.

It’s so lovely to laugh with the residents and make them happy. Everyone at Dovecote is so friendly - and the staff are just brilliant to work with.

I absolutely love the home and the residents. It is a lovely place to work and such a happy environment.

I love working for our residents, it’s like an extended family.

I like working with the residents and staff, they are wonderful it’s a lovely place to work.

I love working here. Dovecote is a fabulous place to work - the residents, the job and the staff, it’s all amazing!
Frequently Asked Questions about Dovecote Residential Care Home
What types of Care is Dovecote Residential Care Home registered for?
Older Person Care, Dementia are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.
How many Rooms does Dovecote Residential Care Home have?
There are 61 Single Rooms.
What are the Facilities & Services at Dovecote Residential Care Home?
Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Minibus or other transport, Lift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Television point in own room are some of the Facilities & Services.
How far is Dovecote Residential Care Home to the centre of Rowlands Gill?
1.4 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.
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