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The Orchard Nursing Home

129-135 Camp Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 5HL
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Everyone is so warm and welcoming, and everyone who visits is really impressedJem D(Husband of Resident/Service User)
The Orchard Nursing Home, St Albans
The way in which he was admitted, cared for and encouraged has been fantastic.Mark P(Son of Resident/Service User)
The Orchard Nursing Home, St Albans
A clean, modern, friendly environment with pleasant, capable staff and positive atmosphereNatasha B(Granddaughter of Resident/Service User)
The Orchard Nursing Home, St Albans

The Orchard Nursing Home is located in a quiet residential area of St Albans, a calm and welcoming setting for residents. This purpose-built care home features bright and modern interiors, beautifully landscaped gardens and a range of thoughtfully designed spaces for comfort and relaxation.

Highly trained staff are available to get to know residents individually, offering the highest standards of residential, nursing and dementia care on a permanent and short stay...  

Care Provided by The Orchard Nursing Home

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia
  • Physical Disability
  • Visual / Hearing Impairment
  • Younger Adults

Length of Stay

  • Permanent Care
  • Respite Care

Care Types Provided

  • Residential Care
  • Nursing Care
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Dementia Nursing Care
  • For a maximum of 63 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)

Facilities

  • Own Furniture if required
  • Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
  • Close to Local shops
  • Near Public Transport
  • Lift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Gardens
  • Bar/Café
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Television point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access

Funding & Fees

Weekly Charges per Person

Type of carePermanentRespite
Residential CareFrom £1,615From £1,723
Residential Dementia CareFrom £1,766From £1,874
Nursing CareFrom £1,766From £1,874
Nursing Dementia CareFrom £1,885From £1,993

Contact The Orchard 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

Group / Owner

Person in charge

  • Dumitru Varzaru(Home Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Information

  • Ages 40+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes
  • Last Refurbishment: 2013
  • Number of floors: 3

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (63)
  • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (63)

Visiting

  • Visitors welcome at any time, but The Orchard Nursing Home would encourage visitors to call in advance to ensure that any specific arrangements can be met.

Parking

  • The home has its own car park for visitors.

The Orchard Nursing Home Reviews (114)

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9.7

The Orchard Nursing Home has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.689) out of 10, based on 24 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time The Orchard Nursing Home has 114 reviews.

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Showing 114 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from S R (Daughter of Resident) published on 29 June 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My mother spent the last 6 mths of her life in The Orchard. There was a welcoming and relaxed but professional atmosphere which helped the residents and their families feel at home. The Orchard is well led by their manager and his senior staff who were always available and helpful. Mums views were valued and changes made when possible. All the staff were kind and supportive, with a can do attitude and positive approach. Mum was treated with dignity and respect by everyone, the care staff were attentive and responsive to her changing needs. As a family we were attentive and responsive to her changing needs. As a family we were always made to feel welcome, there was excellent communication with G.P services. Her end of life was dealt with in a sensitive and appropriate way.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and your kind words and recognition of our team at The Orchard Nursing Home. We are sorry for your loss, and we hope we made your Mum's time with us as comfortable and peaceful as possible. The care and services we deliver as a team to our...  

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Review from Zoe P (Daughter of Resident) published on 8 June 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My mother has been at The Orchard since April 2024 and I just wanted to say how amazing all the team are from Christine the cleaner, Donna the receptionist, Cynthia and Dumitru and all the wonderful nurses and care workers. I can't express how grateful I am to everyone who looks after my mother on a daily basis. Everyone does a fantastic job. Not foggeting Steve the Handyman, Julie and her team and all in the kitchen and the laundry! Thank you.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review, Zoe. We are so pleased to read your positive comments about your mother's care and the recognition of the team at The Orchard Nursing Home. We're glad you feel the team are very accommodating, your mother's needs are being met, and that she's in capable hands. Your feedback will be shared with the team who will be delighted with your review.

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Review from M Q (Son of Resident) published on 26 May 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

This was the first time we'd made use of a care home and tried one week of respite care for my mother, who is suffering with Alzheimers disease. The experience was first-rate and we will definitely make use of this excellent facility again. With huge thanks to all of the staff and also particularly to Daisy - the lovely dog... of whom my mother became very fond!

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We are so please to read your positive comments about your mother's care and the recognition of the team at The Orchard Nursing Home. Your feedback will be shared with the team who will be delighted with your review.

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Review from Gina D (Respite Resident) published on 5 May 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I have been very happy and well cared for here.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review, Gina. We are so pleased to read your positive comments about the care you are receiving and for your recognition of the team at The Orchard Care Home. Your feedback will be shared with the team.

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Review from D H (Friend of Resident) published on 5 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I have visited the orchard nursing home recently my dear friend admitted as respite care .My first impression gained feel as homely environment. I have met the General Manager Dumitru excels strategic leadership with exceptional intelligence .The staff are well led they are very compassionate .I felt like family atmosphere , the care staff are so compassionate. I have been look after very well I saw how residents are engaging in activities carers cater for residents interest which are highly praised .The general manager has excellent communication with families and friends .I felt listen and would like to come to stay for vacation as respite care .My friend has been looked after very well and had a good experience. The general manager Dumitru is very friendly approachable to talk .I have been overwhelmed experiencing a positive moment .The food is nutritious food with flexible dining options and support for those who are in need .I will recommend the orchard nursing home .

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Office at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We are so pleased to read your positive comments about the care your friend is receiving and the recognition the team at The Orchard Nursing Home has received. The care and services we provide to our residents and families are important to us, and...  

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Review from D M (Resident / Service User) published on 8 April 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

The Orchard is well kept. The majority of staff are pleasant and helpful. The management excellent. I would recommend The Orchard. Thank you for making my stay very pleasant. Manager goes out of his way to sort out any problems lovely man!

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We are pleased to read your positive comments about the care and the team at The Orchard Nursing Home. Your comments will be shared with the team.

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Review from Michael R (Resident / Service User) published on 1 April 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Given that I'm younger, in my 40's, they accommodate for all my needs and requests. I really cannot find fault. Everybody is great.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Michael, thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We are so pleased to read your positive comments about your care you are receiving and the team at The Orchard Nursing Home. The care and services we provide to our residents and their families are important to us and it's lovely to read...  

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Review from Sandra H (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 March 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I can't fault The Orchard. The staff are very caring and always have a smile. It's lovely to know a nurse is on duty for medical things. The rooms are lovely nice and big so all the important things for your loved one can be placed around to make it homely. Food is great and the cakes are wow factor. Fantastic place.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review, Sandra. We are so pleased to read your positive comments about your Mum's care and the team at The Orchard Nursing Home. The care and services we provide to our residents and their families are important to us and it's lovely to read your comments...  

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Review from Duncan S (Son of Resident) published on 30 January 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
The onboarding process was very easy and the home made a big effort to make Mum comfortable. At Christmas we had lunch with the residents and the staff, especially the chef, had made a big effort.
Since Mum went in the nursing staff have assisted with her medication, hearing, dementia diagnosis and hearing issues.
The staff all smile, know the residents and treat them in a friendly manner.

On arrival to visit you are always greeted with a smiley face

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Duncan, thank you for your kind words and recognition of our team at The Orchard Nursing Home. We are so pleased to hear that we're meeting your expectations and that you were greeted with a warm welcome upon arrival at The Orchard. The care and services we deliver as a team to our residents and...  

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Review from David W (Son of Resident) published on 27 January 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My mum became a resident at "The Orchard" Camp Rd St Albans in July 25. She was very happy there from day 1. She made lots of friends and joined into all the activities. My mum died Tuesday 13th Jan while being cared for by the staff at Orchard. They couldn't have done a better job or been more professional. My mum refused to go back to hospital because she wanted to continue her stay in the home familiar surroundings, in her own room, with friends.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

David, thank you for your kind words and recognition of the team at The Orchard Nursing Home. We are sorry for your loss. We were pleased to be able to give your mum the support she needed. The care and services we deliver as a team to our residents and families are extremely important to us, and it's lovely to read that your comments reflect this. Your comments will be shared with the team.

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Review from Deborah W (Daughter of Resident) published on 27 January 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

We have been very impressed with all aspects of the Orchard Care Home. All the staff are very friendly, helpful and kind. There is a friendly feel as soon as you walk in the door and meet the reception staff. My mother in law was made as comfortable as possible in the last five months of her life and was able to make friendship with staff and residents. The end of life care that she received was wonderful. We felt she has been cared for as a family member and and the nurses, carers and the manager were fully supportive of us at the end. Thank you.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manger at The Orchard Nursing Home

Deborah, thank you for your kind words and recognition of the team at The Orchard Nursing Home. We are sorry for your loss. The care and services we deliver as a team to our residents and families are extremely important to us, and it's lovely to read your comments reflect this. Your feedback will be shared with the team.

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Review from J S (Wife of Resident) published on 19 January 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Kind and caring attentive after hospital stay.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

We would like to thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and positive comments about the home and team at The Orchard Nursing Home. The care and services we deliver as a team to our residents and families are extremely important to us, and it's lovely to read your comments reflect this. Your feedback will be shared with the team who will be delighted with your 5*review.

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Review from S H (Respite Resident) published on 19 January 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

A bright welcoming reception, tastefully decorated corridor beautiful photographs of Verulamium and addressed by name by everyone on arrival. No matter whatever nursing, caring or food beverage, everyone kind, gentle, welcoming and encouraging, smiling faces. It was a joy to be looked after by such people facilities and activities did not really apply to me respite only 2 weeks.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and positive comments about our home and team at The Orchard Nursing Home. Your feedback will be shared with the team, who will be delighted with your review.

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Review from B G (Daughter of Resident) published on 14 January 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Good communication
Friendly caring staff
Clean pleasant surroundings
Very useful for convalescence to enable an earlier discharge from hospital
Thank you for your care much appreciated

One thought would be that riser recliner chairs for less mobile clients would be a great help

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, The Orchard Nursing Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We are pleased to read your positive comments about The Orchard Nursing Home and our team. It's wonderful to know that the care and support provided meet your expectations. Your feedback has been shared with the team.

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Review from L B (Daughter of Resident) published on 31 December 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

The Orchard is a wonderful, caring, organised nursing home staffed by well trained, cheerful staff. Mum was welcomed not only by nurses, carers, management but also by other residents. The staff have cheerfully negotiated the challenges of helping her settle after living her own home for so many years. They help and encourage her to enjoy the many social aspects of the home and her standard of care is excellent.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave a review for The Orchard and for your positive comments about our home and team. We are pleased to hear your mother has settled into the home and that she's enjoying the social aspects the home has to offer. Your comments have been shared with the team who will be delighted to hear your feedback.

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Review from F T (Power of Attorney of Resident) published on 21 October 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

Very pleased with the home. Staff friendly, food excellent, care very good. To date we are very satisfied, overall. We are always greeted by friendly staff when we visit.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, The Orchard Nursing Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and for your kind words and recognition of the team at The Orchard Nursing Home. The care and services we deliver as a team to our residents and families are extremely important to us, and it's lovely to read your comments reflect this. Your feedback will be passed on to the team who will be delighted with your 5* review.

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Review from John K (Husband of Resident) published on 6 October 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I am very please Stella is living in The Orchard Nursing Home and find it very satisfactory, no its good.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review, John. We appreciate your kind words regarding The Orchard Nursing Home and have passed your feedback onto the team.

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Review from Dennis P (Resident / Service User) published on 23 May 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

I have been a resident at The Orchard for over two years. I looked at seven homes and chose The Orchard. I have had no reason to regret this choice. The staff are caring and considerate. It is a place of safety and well-being.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, The Orchard Nursing Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We are delighted to read your positive comments about The Orchard Nursing Home and the care you are receiving. We appreciate your recognition of our team, and your feedback will be shared with them.

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Review from J B (Respite Resident) published on 17 April 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

2nd time for respite.

Reply from Dumitru Varzaru, The Orchard Nursing Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

We would like to thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and positive comments about the home and team at The Orchard Nursing Home. All comments will be passed on to the team.

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Review from Alan W (Husband of Resident) published on 22 January 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Attended a residents relative meeting at The Orchard Nursing Home.
A well presented and organised event.
Very informative with good dialogue.
My contribution was to commend the home on the excellent care my wife receives and the friendly approach of the staff.
I have commented prior to this review but feel the need to provide further comments as the home has maintained a good standard.
I am absolutely impressed with how my wife's condition has greatly improved since becoming a resident at the home.
To find her so happy and content is a real joy for my family and friends to see.
Courteous staff as you enter and a fun environment all around, especially the activities.

I cannot recommend the Orchard more favorably and feel, we, as a family made a good choice placing my wife there.

Reply from Edwin Cabagui, The Orchard Nursing Home Manager at The Orchard Nursing Home

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and for your kind words and recognition of the team at The Orchard Nursing Home. The care and services we deliver as a team to our residents and families are extremely important to us, and it's lovely to read your comments reflect this. Your feedback will be shared with the team who will be delighted with your 5* review.

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Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 01 August 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 (2) & Events (0)

News
  • 17 Sep 2025

    We are proud to be in partnership with Therapy on Thames whose expert physiotherapists use our onsite specialist physiotherapy room and equipment to support residents needing physio after a fall...

  • 22 May 2025

    Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological conditions that affect memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday tasks. It is most associated with Alzheimer’s...

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events for The Orchard Nursing Home.

Awards / Recognitions (13)

Meet the Team (3)

Dumitru Varzaru
Dumitru VarzaruJob Title:Home Manager

As the Home Manager, I believe that our residents should be treated with the highest quality of care possible and I have the responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents. I lead by example and involve myself in the day-to-day life of the home as well as making The Orchard a happy and enjoyable place in which to live and work.

Tubi Malawo
Tubi MalawoJob Title:Deputy Manager

Our carers and nurses are highly skilled, with qualifications to manage all types of care, including residential, nursing and dementia. Within each team, we’re able to offer specialist care for complex conditions.

I bring a wealth of clinical expertise and compassionate leadership, supporting high-quality care and ensuring residents at The Orchard feel safe, respected and well looked after every day.

Natalie Collard
Natalie CollardJob Title:Customer Relationship Manager

I support families from the first enquiry, offering guidance, reassurance and a warm welcome to help make choosing care at The Orchard feel easier and informed.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Orchard Nursing Home

What types of Care is The Orchard Nursing Home registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Physical Disability, Visual / Hearing Impairment, Younger Adults are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does The Orchard Nursing Home have?

There are 63 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at The Orchard Nursing Home?

Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Close to Local shops, Near Public Transport, Lift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Bar/Café, Phone Point in own room, Television point in own room, Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is The Orchard Nursing Home to the centre of St Albans?

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