Search...

Harrier Lodge

Thanet Way, Whitstable, Kent CT5 3FS
Care UK Logo
Jobs
Harrier Lodge logo
We can't praise them enough. The staff feel like family nowSusan B(Daughter of Resident/Service User)
Harrier Lodge, Whitstable
Harrier Lodge, Whitstable
Harrier Lodge, Whitstable

Harrier Lodge provides expert residential, nursing, respite and dementia care. Known as a ‘home for life’, the team can support you, even if needs change. Residents receive personalised care that reflects their needs, interests and life history.

Loved ones can visit any time and there are plenty of luxury facilities to enjoy, including the café, cinema room and hair and beauty salon. The dedicated lifestyle team ensures there’s a wide range...  

Care Provided by Harrier Lodge

Primary Care Categories

  • Older Person Care
  • Dementia
  • Mental Health Condition
  • Physical Disability
  • 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 65 Service Users

Dementia Care Types

  • Mild Dementia
  • Moderate Dementia
  • Advanced/Complex Dementia

Other Care Provided

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

Facilities

  • Near Public Transport
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Lift
  • Wheelchair Access
  • 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 £1,600From £1,800
Residential Dementia CareFrom £1,695From £1,906
Nursing CareFrom £1,865From £2,098
Nursing Dementia CareFrom £1,960From £2,205
Fees are subject to a pre-admission needs assessment which is required to fully understand the level
of care and support required by each individual. Premium rooms normally require an additional charge.
Nursing fees include the Funded Nursing Contribution (FNC) if you are eligible. There are no additional fees

for respite stays.

What’s included?
• All care and support including a monthly review of care plans
• All meals, snacks and drinks freshly prepared every day by our chef
• In-house café with homemade cakes, and a variety of speciality teas and coffees
• Use of in-house cinema
• Access to landscaped gardens
• Activities and lifestyle programme
• All utilities and other accommodation costs
• Housekeeping and laundry services

• WiFi internet access

Please note, the weekly fee does not include hairdressing, chiropody or other healthcare visits or
appointments not covered by the NHS, toiletries, newspapers or magazines, any over the counter
medications that a GP wouldn’t normally prescribe such as paracetamol and indigestion relief, and any
other privately arranged healthcare. Should you require an escort to hospital appointments, we may apply

an agreed hourly charge for this service.

Contact Harrier Lodge 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

  • Susan Simmonds(Manager)

Local Authority / Social Services

Admission Information

  • Ages 55+

Care Home Design/Build

  • Purpose Built: Yes

Room Information

  • Single Rooms (65)
  • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (65)

Harrier Lodge Reviews (87)

Submit a Review
9.2

Harrier Lodge has a Review Score of 9.2 (9.209) out of 10, based on 11 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Harrier Lodge has 87 reviews.

Submit Review
Filter Reviews
Overall Experience
Date Published
Reviewer Connection to Harrier Lodge
Loading...
Showing 87 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from Sarah W (Daughter of Resident) published on 3 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My mum had five weeks rest bite care in Harrier lodge and has only just gone back home. The home is so nice and the staff are amazing, a special mention of Kyran, Vishnu, Harriet, Liza, Pat, Wendy and Kelly. All staff made my mum feel so welcome and regularly checked on her. Mum enjoyed the food, social activities and the company in general.
Mum was on the driftwood suite, a special mention to all the staff that looked after her. Honestly don't take any notice of their CQC rating, don't let it put you off as this home is amazing. I know they had another inspection about a month ago, which should be published soon and reflect the level of the care they provide.
If my mum decides to come back, my sister and I would be so happy and sleep well at night, knowing how well she would be cared for.

Sarah

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from E M (Daughter of Resident) published on 29 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all the staff on Seashell and Pebble. The care our mother received throughout her time at Harrier Lodge was truly exemplary, and her recent passing was made more bearable by the kindness, compassion, and professionalism shown by all the wonderful carers.

Our family are deeply grateful for everything you did for her and for us.

Reply from Kyran Chalmers, Reviews Team at Harrier Lodge

Thank you so much for leaving such a heartfelt review of the your Mum's time within the home.

Your Mum played was such a huge part of the home, and I know that she will be missed by residents and staff alike, for a long time to come.

We wish you all the best during this incredibly...  

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
No Rating
Review from D R (Wife of Resident) published on 20 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I am very happy with my husband's care. The Carers and Managers always take time to talk to us. We both enjoy the entertainment and events. Everyone is very helpful and kind. I feel so grateful that he's so well looked after. He loves the food, especially the cakes.

Reply from Kyran Chalmers, Reviews Team at Harrier Lodge
Good morning,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review for the home.

We’re so pleased to hear how happy you are with your husband’s care. It means a great deal to know that our carers and managers are taking the time to support you both and that you feel listened to. We’re also...  

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
No Rating
Review from Elaine F (Daughter of Resident) published on 17 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My mum moved into Harrier Lodge in Nov 25 after a fall at home.
Everyone was Amazing on mums arrival making her feel safe and most of all making her relax into her new surroundings that she now calls home . Mum has Dementia & she certainly kept busy & most of all active with all the activities, visits from local schools who read & sing to them ( she loves this) . Crafting. Chatting .Entertainment , singers come in regularly so they can have a sing a long to the old favourites which brightens everyone's day . Mum loves helping others if they are sad.
Everyone who looks after mum is kind , loving & make her smile , I can't thank them enough for helping her enjoy life in her new home . Everyone loves to visit as it's a happy place & the Cakes are good too!
Everyone has been so supportive & kind as this has been a very emotional time for me .
Meals lovely & the Home is always clean.
Best thing now is I have a lovely visit with my mum & know she's

happy, safe & surrounded by love

Reply from Kyran Chalmers, Reviews Team at Harrier Lodge

Good morning, Elaine,

Thank you so much for sharing such a heartfelt review. We’re truly delighted to hear how well your mum has settled into Harrier Lodge and that she now feels safe, relaxed, and at home.

I know that your kind words will be so much to the teams throughout the home, and I...  

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from Sylvia P (Wife of Resident) published on 23 March 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My husband was admitted to Harrier Lodge with generalised frailty and disorientation after his condition deteriorated such that I could no longer care for him safely at home.

The staff gave him a lovely welcome as he arrived (he had received respite care at the home a few months previously). He responded well to this as he was settled into his room.

Sadly, he continued to deteriorate. He had been suffering the effects of frailty for many months, and it became evident that he would need end of life care. During the last week of his life, he was cared for with kindness and compassion as, indeed, was I. He always appeared peaceful, comfortably supported with pillows, and as he was by then unable to take fluids, his mouth was kept moist and fresh.

I have a nursing background, so I know good care when I see it.

The care I witnessed was a great solace for me during a very sad time jn our lives.

Reply from Kyran Chalmers, Reviews Team at Harrier Lodge

Thank you for taking the time to leave such a heartfelt review, during what I am sure, is a very difficult time for yourself, and your loved ones.

It has been a privilege to not only support with Don's care during his last few weeks, but also to have the opportunity to get to know the two of...  

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
No Rating
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from Julia R (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 March 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My mother spent 3 weeks at Harrier Lodge convalescing after major surgery. The atmosphere was lovely. It always seemed fresh and clean. Welcome entrance with cafe. Staff very kind and caring and there was excellent nursing care and knowledge where needed.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from Sandra B (Daughter of Resident) published on 28 January 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My father was transferred to Harrier Lodge from hospital as he needed end of life care. It was my family's decision in choosing Harrier Lodge as we were assured it had 24 hour nursing care, a requirement that the hospital said he needed.
Sadly, my father passed away after three weeks of entering Harrier Lodge.
The whole experience here for my father and our family was abysmal, the end of life pain management was pretty non existent, my father needed to receive proper medication and a driver machine but they were unable to provide this in time before his death. Nursing care was inexperienced and only one nurse seemed to have any authority and knowledge.
This care home let my father down, he was made to feel that he was complaining incessantly and on two occasions his alarm alert buzzer was on the wall not by his side where it should have been.

Several staff were very patronising and we honestly don't believe they were fully aware of his medical needs. There was no compassion or dignity

Reply from Samantha Debenham, Reviews Team at Harrier Lodge
We are very sorry for your loss and would like to offer our sincere and heartfelt condolences to you and your family. We recognise how difficult this time must be and appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback regarding your father’s care at Harrier Lodge.

We are sorry to hear that...  

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
No Rating
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from A P (Daughter of Resident) published on 3 October 2025 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My parents stayed at Harrier Lodge for respite care. Prior to their stay, staff were informative, professional and very heloful, reassuring me that my parents' stay would be enjoyable and comfortable. My parents had a lovely time, enjoying meals in the restaurant, activities and had a lovely room. All staff were kind, caring, patient and easy to talk to, making the entire experience first class.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from Susan B (Daughter of Resident) published on 12 June 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My brother and I, with Mum' (94), decided in November 2023 that Harrier Lodge would be a good place for her to move to as her anxiety and memory issues were beginning to be a worry. She settled in fairly quickly and from that moment our minds were very much at rest. The home is very comfortable, clean, light, with good food, and a garden to sit in. There are regular activities and it is very friendly. Mum's dementia worsened but she was always treated with humour and respect. Sadly she recently became ill and deteriorated over a week until she passed away. The staff on her floor were totally amazing. They were caring and careful, both with mum and with us. There was always someone to call on, nursing and medical care was taken care of and the subtle and sensitive way all the staff dealt with the situation was beyond wonderful. We can't praise them enough. The staff feel like family now and actually we shall still see them as my mother in law has now moved in! Thank you so much!!

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from S M (Daughter of Resident) published on 7 January 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My 6 month experience of Harrier Lodge has been truly positive. Not only is the standard of care high and individualised for my father, but the staff and residents are becoming like an extended family to me and my relatives who visit regularly. The home itself is very clean and comfortable. The fact that the home is built on a slope gives the added bonus of first floor outdoor space, accessible to residents and their visitors. Staff are very welcoming from the outset and encourage visits, even a coffee in the cafe, before making up your mind. My father chose this home himself and settled quickly. We thank the staff for being there for us.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from Mark B (Partner of Resident) published on 11 December 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Harrier Lodge had been highly recommended to me already by a good friend, whose mum had been a resident there previously. My partner was given a short, terminal diagnosis and we were lucky enough that a room was becoming available within a couple of days. An assessor visited him in hospital to be sure that they would be able to cater to his 'complex needs' (as the consultant worded it). Sadly we aren't able to name names, but all the care staff and nursing staff showed amazing care and compassion, both to my partner and myself. His medical and care needs changed over time, but they were regularly assessed and changed when needed. Extra little touches like being asked what his favourite foods were, as he wasn't able to communicate what he wanted and they wanted to make sure he was given meals he would enjoy. I visited every day and was always made welcome and could help myself to freshly made pastries, cakes and drinks. I always left knowing he was safe, comfortable and well cared for.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
No Rating
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
No Rating
Review from Nicola B (Daughter of Resident) published on 29 July 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
We sadly had to make the decision to put our lovely mum into respite care as my dad needed a major operation.
She has absolutely thrived in there. She has Dementia, Type 1 Diabetes as well as other full-on nursing needs. The staff have cared for her so well. They have encouraged her to join in the activities. She has her hair done every week, the food she describes as 'delicious'. She has become more mobile & active since being in there, we cannot thank them enough for how Mum has progressed from a very inactive lady to how she is now.
The care & compassion shown is amazing. I cannot thank the staff enough & would not hesitate to place Mum back there for more respite - or sadly when the time comes - as a permanent placement. She is safe, content and so well loved & looked after -
It is impossible to name all the staff & management who have helped - you have all been amazing.
& be sure to try the amazing cakes in the cafe when you visit.

Thank you from all Mum's family & friends x

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from S R (Sister of Resident) published on 24 May 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

My brother has been in Harrier Lodge for respite for the last 3 months. The service he has received has been exceptional from nurses, carers, cleaners, management and everybody who I have not mentioned. He himself says that he would go back without hesitation if needed.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from M G (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 May 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My dad has been living with dementia at Harrier Lodge for several years. The Harrier team are a group of amazing people. They are kind and understanding, encouraging independence as well as providing outstanding care. The lifestyle coordinators provide many activities and organise visiting entertainment to Harrier Lodge as well as trips out using the minibus. Thank you to everyone for helping dad to live a safe and happy life.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
No Rating
Review from L B (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 April 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
The staff could not have been more supportive or caring to both myself and my mother during the very worrying months last year when the whole of Mum's financial situation was under scrutiny. They did everything they possibly could to keep Mum safe with them at Harrier. I can’t thank them enough.
The whole team look after Mum wonderfully in very difficult circumstances. The warm, relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes visiting a pleasure. It is always remarked on when I bring other family members with me.

The whole Harrier experience for me has set a very high bar that I haven’t seen bettered anywhere else. I am very impressed with every member of staff and the efforts they go to make their residents happy, calm and content. From the kitchen, laundry, reception and office staff to the wonderful men and women doing the personal care and keeping everyone entertained. A first-class care home in my opinion. That is my very grateful thanks.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from S H (Daughter of Resident) published on 19 April 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My dad is a resident at Harrier Lodge, he is living with dementia. All the staff are so caring and understanding to both Dad and us, as a family supporting Dad. The lifestyle team offer a lot of fun and lovely activities. I am happy Dad is getting the best care possible at Harrier Lodge.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from A S (Daughter of Resident) published on 16 April 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My Mum has been a Resident at Harrier Lodge for several years and it is always like visiting an extended family; not just my Mum! And the whole of Mum’s family is always welcomed - across the generations - including her young great-grandchildren! Great care is given across Residents’ various - and changing - needs, as well as the brilliant support given to Relatives! All the staff - carers, domestic, catering, admin, maintenance, and management - are fully involved with the Residents and always make sure that they get to know each Resident - and their families! Thank you to you all!

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
No Rating
Review from M C (Niece of Resident) published on 16 April 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

The whole team at Harrier Lodge including the management have been so welcoming and kind to our aunt. She has a lovely spacious room, very comfortable and clean. It’s such a relaxed and calm environment for service users and their families. Daytime activities are well organised and nobody misses out, even if they cannot leave their room. The Housekeeping team do a marvellous job, as all of the clean washing comes back to our aunt pressed and hung on a hanger. You would not be disappointed with the services on offer here.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from Gill S (Respite Resident) published on 4 April 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Returning for a second, three-week respite stay at this outstanding care home. Harrier Lodge is home from home, with a wonderful atmosphere, warm welcome, caring, friendly staff in all departments who really take pride in their work. It is spotless with bright and airy decor throughout. You can be solitary or social but with a fantastic programme of activities, there is something to suit all. This home is the best, in my opinion, and I can’t wait to return to this happy, safe haven with such special, caring people and facilities.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money
Review from Edward S (Son of Resident) published on 20 February 2024 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
Our mother was resident at Harrier Lodge and so beautifully cared for and looked after whilst she was there until she died. All the staff were so understanding and caring and professional and gave myself, my sister and my two brothers all the support and information we needed at a very difficult time.

Thank you.

Facilities
Care / Support
Cleanliness
Treated with Dignity
Food & Drink
Staff
Activities
Management
Safety / Security
Rooms
Value for Money

Regulatory Rating

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 28 April 2026
Overall
Good
  • CaringGood
  • EffectiveGood
  • ResponsiveGood
  • SafeGood
  • Well-ledRequires improvement
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 (43) & Events (0)

News
  • 29 May 2026

    Care UK’s commitment to supporting residents has been nationally recognised, as the organisation took home the large care provider of the year accolade at the 2026 Care Home Awards. At...

  • 29 May 2026

    Residents in Care UK homes love getting out and about in nature where they can and, for one Dorset-based home, they’re celebrating World Bee Day with a buzz! Wimborne-based home,...

  • 29 May 2026

    Colleagues across Care UK are celebrating after being shortlisted in eleven categories at the Stars of Social Care Awards, the most the company has ever been shortlisted in at the...

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events for Harrier Lodge.

Awards / Recognitions (117)

  • 23 Jul 2026Recipient: Care UK
  • 13 Jul 2026Recipient: Care UK
  • 26 Jun 2026Recipient: Care UK

Accreditations

There are no accreditations posted yet for Harrier Lodge.

Meet the Team (1)

Susan Simmonds
Susan SimmondsJob Title:Home Manager

The team and I consider it a huge privilege to care for older people and are proud that their families trust us to care for them.

This is a lovely friendly and happy home, with a great family atmosphere. We look forward to welcoming you here soon.

Frequently Asked Questions about Harrier Lodge

What types of Care is Harrier Lodge registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Mental Health Condition, Physical Disability, Younger Adults are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

How many Rooms does Harrier Lodge have?

There are 65 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Harrier Lodge?

Near Public Transport, Minibus or other transport, Lift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Bar/Café, Residents Kitchenette, Phone Point in own room, Television point in own room, Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Harrier Lodge to the centre of Whitstable?

1.5 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.

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