Halcyon Days

The Old Rectory, Church Lane, Graveley, Hitchin SG4 7LU
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9.7 64 Reviews
  • Halcyon Days, Hitchin
Halcyon Days offers first class care for residents in picturesque village surroundings. Each one of their residents enjoys unique, personalised care, built around them and designed to make their stay with as enjoyable and fulfilling as possible. The care expertise on offer can extend to higher-needs care and provision for people with a form of dementia, with a highly-qualified team having shown an impressive record of delivering a satisfying service. It continues to deliver great care as its recent inspection it scored Overall Good in delivering safe care practices in a safe environment, effective, caring and responsive, which is continues to maintain and deliver to all residents.

'It’s what’s inside that counts' - Gold Care Homes' new slogan represents what people truly find important about care homes, and what they love about Halcyon Days, the staff. Care workers are the heart of the business. Halcyon Days has long standing staff who are devoted to caring and creating a friendly, fun, home-like atmosphere for their residents. Gold Care Homes invest in their hardworking staff, empowering them to advance in their career and their ideas are heard in order to improve their working environment/their residents home.

There is a vast selection of staff who are able to speak many different languages. This is available for residents who cannot speak English and this is especially beneficial for those living with dementia. Please contact to find out what languages they have to offer.

Residents will also benefit from:

- Hairdressing/Beauty Facilities
- Regular Activities
- Modern Bedroom Furniture
- Single or double sized rooms
- TV and Telephone points
- En- Suite Facilities

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Care Provided by Halcyon Days

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Dementia
  • Older Person Care
  • Respite Care
  • Younger Adults
  • Care Types Provided
  • Dementia Residential Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 57 Service Users
  • Privately Owned
  • Care Offered
  • Alzheimer's
  • Cancer Care
  • Epilepsy
  • Hearing Impairment
  • Speech Impairment
  • Stroke
  • Visual Impairment
  • Other Care Provided
  • Day Care
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care
  • Separate Specialist Dementia Care Unit

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Nicola Hughes (Acting Care Home Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 18+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (51)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms (3)
    • Single Rooms with ensuite Wet Room (51)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: No

Funding & Fees Guide for Halcyon Days

  • Funding Types Accepted
  • Self funding (Private)
  • Local Authority with Top-Up
  • Local Authority
  • NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) Funding
  • Weekly Charges per Person
    • Self-Funded Residential Care £1,400 – £1,400
    • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care £1,400 – £1,400
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care £1,400 – £1,400
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care £1,400 – £1,400

  • Respite Care Fees are subject to an assessment of individual needs.
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact Halcyon Days to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

  • Gardens
  • Lift
  • Own Furniture if required
  • Pet Friendly (or by arrangement)
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Stairlift
  • Television point in own room
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Visiting

  • Anytime,


  • Parking

  • 10 free parking space available


Halcyon Days Reviews (64)

Total of 64, showing 1-20
9.7

Halcyon Days has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.653) out of 10, based on 13 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Halcyon Days has 64 reviews.

Overall Experience

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Review from D I (Son of Resident) published on 7 February 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My dad is in the dementia section and is well cared for by the staff. The staff are supportive and friendly. The care home is situated in a nice quiet area and easy to find parking.
The care home is very spacious, lots of room for everyone to move around and a big dining area to get together and eat,
socialise rather than being stuck in their room. The management are approachable, if you have any concerns you want to raise

Reply from Nichola Hughes, Home Manager at Halcyon Days

Thank you for your positive feedback. I will pass on your kind words about the staff to the team here at Halcyon Days. Best Wishes.


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Review from C G (Daughter of Resident) published on 7 February 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Really good, kind and efficient care.

Reply from Nichola Hughes, Home Manager at Halcyon Days

Thank you for your positive feedback on our care here at Halcyon Days. Warm Wishes.


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Review from Maureen R (Daughter of Resident) published on 28 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I am very happy that Halcyon Days staff are very caring for my mother. Everyone greets her even when just walking in the corridor. They know everyone's individual needs and keep relatives updated. I particularly enjoy that they keep her sense of humour going. I am so grateful she is cared for.

Reply from Nichola Hughes, Home Manager at Halcyon Days

Thank you for sharing your experience of our home. It is our pleasure to care for your mother. Kind regards.


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Review from G S (Son of Resident) published on 23 September 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I would like to thank all the staff at Halcyon Days Care Home in gravely. I visited my mother today, she was so happy and the staff made us feel so at ease. My mother said she is thoroughly enjoying herself here. The staff made every effort to make sure that my mother had everything she needed. The
place has a fantastic atmosphere. I thank you all for the care that you are giving to Mum and the welcome you gave me and my son.

Reply from Nichola Hughes, Home Manager at Halcyon Days

Thank you for your wonderful words. We are so pleased you and your mum are happy with the care she is receiving at our home. Best wishes.


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Review from S H (Mother of Resident) published on 18 June 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Over the past 2 months, I have visited my daughter weekly. She was sent there after recovering in hospital for 4 weeks having been knocked down by a car.
She was very run down when the accident occurred, so I was delighted to see her gradually improving in health, having regular meals and good company
of people who talked to her. The feeling of friendship was felt immediately on entering the centre. The staff are welcoming and caring to all of the patients. It is a very well-run care home.

Reply from Nichola Hughes, Home Manager at Halcyon Days

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with us. We are thrilled to hear about your daughter's gradual improvement and recovery during her stay with us.


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Review from Lorraine K (Niece of Resident) published on 17 May 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We are very happy with the care my auntie received. The staff are great and always welcoming, my aunt is very happy and contented. We have seen some great improvement in the home with decorating and making it more modern, very pleased.

Reply from Nichola Hughes, Home Manager at Halcyon Days

Thank you for entrusting us with your aunt's care and for sharing your review with us!


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Review from Stephen A (Son of Resident) published on 14 May 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Such a comfortable environment for my father, all staff are professional and caring and are extremely good listeners. Very attentive and speak to all residents as human beings. Dignity and respect form a strong base to work from.

Reply from Nichola Hughes, Home Manager at Halcyon Days

We're thrilled to hear that your father has found such comfort and care at Halcyon Days Care Home. Thank you for entrusting us with your father's well-being.


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Review from D L (Husband of Resident) published on 13 May 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

As you can imagine I was apprehensive when my wife went into Halcyon Care Home after being together in marriage for 67 years. I am so relieved at the kindness of all the staff and the way they look after her. Nothing is too much trouble for them.

Reply from Nichola Hughes, Home manager at Halcyon Days

Hello, thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We truly appreciate it.


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Review from Stuart W (Nephew of Resident) published on 9 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I visit my aunt fairly regularly and I always find the staff very polite and helpful. Having not eaten I could not say what the food was like, but my aunt tells me the food is ok. I did take something to her room once and it seemed quite reasonable and comfortable. My wife was in a similar care home
and I know that although the Victorian buildings are suitable they can be difficult to maintain. On the whole, I think you all do a fantastic job.

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Review from Linda J (Wife of Resident) published on 26 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My husband was taken ill once again recently but this was quickly identified and monitored and action was taken in accordance with our wishes for him to be looked after in the home rather than sent to the hospital. All the staff are very caring and do their best to keep the residents happy and comfortable
and monitor them constantly and make sure they keep well hydrated. The management is always approachable and available to talk over any concerns we have and receptive to suggestions. I and the family are very happy with the care my husband is receiving, it is a bonus to have lovely surroundings and to be able to sit outside in the garden when the weather permits. I would also like to say how kind the carers are to me and the family when we visit, making sure that we are looked after as well, there is always a cup of tea waiting!

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Review from L H (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 14 September 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Nan is quite settled until we arrive! The carers are very good with her, she has regained lost weight and they calm her down when she is upset. I’m content that she is well looked after and she has kind friends around her, even though they sadly struggle to recall each other's names.

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Review from Jane P (Daughter of Resident) published on 14 July 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My dad is currently residing at Halcyon Days on respite care. Which we are hoping/expecting to become permanent. Dad has gone from being unsafe and scared at home, neglecting himself and being very sad and lonely to being happy, taking care of himself. The staff genuinely care care for the residents
and I see them interacting with empathy and compassion with residents. The environment is clean and always smells fresh. the grounds are stunning. As a family, we no longer have the constant worry.

Reply from Priyanka Gadhe, Marketing Administrator at Halcyon Days

Thank you for your lovely comments about Halcyon Days care home and the team. We are pleased to hear your dad is happy at the home. The care and services we deliver as a team to our residents and families are extremely important to us. Your feedback will be shared with the team.


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Review from Kathy F (Wife of Resident) published on 21 March 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I would like to say a very big thank you and praise all the staff at Halcyon Days Care Home in gravely for all their input for the Valentine’s Day celebration I know all the residents thoroughly enjoyed themselves as much as I did, the effort that went into the event was excellent, wonderful food so
much of it, fantastic atmosphere with great entertainment can’t wait for the next get together well done.
I also must congratulate and thank all the staff for doing something which to me was over and above their duties, it was mine and my husband's wedding anniversary of fifty-five years and when I went to visit him on that day there was a card which had been written by him with the help of the carers and a wonderful bouquet of flowers, I was truly touched and my husband looked so chuffed. I thank you all for the care you not only give to him but to all the residents, many thanks.

Reply from Rosie Honour, Senior Customer Relations Manager at Halcyon Days

Thank you very much for your kind words Kathy, from all the team at Halcyon Days.


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Review from Rebecca C (Stepdaughter of Resident) published on 22 November 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

A beautiful setting.
Seems well organised, and he seems well and happy.

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Review from Angela S (Friend of Resident) published on 22 November 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

The resident has only been here a couple of days, but from what I've seen has settled in very well, and the staff are always about to help.

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Review from Mary G (Friend of Resident) published on 22 November 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Very pleasant.
My friend moved here on Monday and seems to have settled very well.
The staff seem very friendly and pleasant.

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Review from Sophie B (Daughter of Resident) published on 17 November 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Helpful staff - assisted with all queries.
Happy with the care my dad is receiving.
Care home is clean and is still keeping measures in place.
Only bad this was some leftover hair on the floor from a haircut.

Reply from Rosie Honour, Senior Customer Relations Manager at Halcyon Days

Thank you very much, Sophie, for your review. We have passed on your comments to the housekeeping team to ensure the bathrooms are fully cleaned.


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Review from Sylvia S (Sister-in-law of Resident) published on 21 October 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Very welcoming! Was met with very friendly caring staff. Lovely environment and all the clients seem well cared for and encouraged to mix with other residents and not left in isolation. Staff obviously trying to cater for all the individual needs and its heartening to know that ones relative is in such
good hands.

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Review from Louise T (Daughter of Resident) published on 14 October 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Friendly and helpful, carers are lovely to Mum.
Mum is always saying the food is lovely and residents are fed extremely well. Mum always eats all of her food that is served up for her. Good choices.

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Review from Kevin T (Son of Resident) published on 12 October 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

The staff are very helpful and friendly and are always happy to answer any questions. Mum is always saying how lovely the food is. Management also keep me informed when Mum has an appointment coming up.

Reply from Rosie Honour, Senior Customer Relations Manager at Halcyon Days

Thank you for your review. We have got a new member of the activity team starting next week. She will be bringing new stimulating activities to our resident's weekly plan. Our rooms are regularly being updated by our in house maintenance to keep things up to date. We appreciate your kind words and comments. If there is anything else we can do please don't hesitate to get in touch.


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Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.653)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.653) out of 10 for Halcyon Days is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.7 out of 5 from 13 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 13 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Care Home is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  • a) 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months.

    The Average Rating of 4.653 for Halcyon Days is calculated as follows: ( (107 Excellents x 5) + (36 Goods x 4) + (5 Satisfactorys x 3) + (2 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 150 Ratings = 4.653

  • b) 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5').

    The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Halcyon Days is based on 13 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    • i) 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4

    • ii) 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the registered maximum number of service users in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Care Home registered for a maximum of 50 service users has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 57 registered maximum number of service users is 11.4, which has been reached with 13 Positive reviews. Points = 1

  • When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.

  • If a Care Home does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Performance

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating

Date: 29 Jan 2024

Overall
Good

  • Caring

    Good

  • Effective

    Good

  • Responsive

    Good

  • Safe

    Good

  • Well-led

    Requires improvement

Care Quality Commission is responsible for the registration and inspection of social care services in England.

View Latest Report

Bed Vacancies

6 Bed Vacancies

posted 13 Mar 2025

We would love to show you how we can help you or a loved one, so for more information or if you would like to arrange a visit, speak to our friendly team today.


Awards / Recognitions (9)

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Meet the Team (1)

No image found

Nicola Hughes

Job Title: Home Manager

My profile is currently under construction as I am working on putting together a comprehensive overview of my experiences and achievements. I look forward to sharing more about myself soon.


Frequently Asked Questions about Halcyon Days

What types of Care is Halcyon Days registered for?

Older Person Care, Dementia, Respite Care & Younger Adults are the registered (by the Care Quality Commission) categories of Care.

What additional types of Care does Halcyon Days provide?

Palliative Care, Day Care, Separate Specialist Dementia Care Unit & Own GP if required are other types of care provided.

How many Rooms does Halcyon Days have?

There are 51 Single Rooms and 3 Couples/Companion Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Halcyon Days?

Own Furniture if required, Pet Friendly (or by arrangement), Smoking not permitted, Lift, Stairlift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Residents Kitchenette, Phone Point in own room, Television point in own room & Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Halcyon Days to the centre of Hitchin?

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