Hardwick Dene

Hardwick Lane, Buckden, St Neots PE19 5UN
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9.9 42 Reviews
  • Hardwick Dene, St Neots
Hardwick Dene is located in the quiet village of Buckden and was built in the 1920s as an Edwardian country residence. The home itself is set on spacious grounds with local wildlife adding to its character.

They pride themselves on their excellent facilities and activities programme including partnerships with local community groups, such as the church and schools. Their minibus allows them to take residents out to enjoy trips to the garden centre, museums, seaside and many other places.

They have weekly music, exercise, dance classes, quizzes, word games, baking and arts and crafts clubs.

Every Wednesday they have a care home experience day, which allows vulnerable people in the local community who may be considering moving into a care home in the near future the chance to come into the home, have lunch, enjoy the entertainment and form friendships with residents and meet the staff.

There is a very experienced care team who really understands the needs of residents. Great attention is given to care planning so that all residents are cared for in a way that they still maintain their independence and dignity.

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Care Provided by Hardwick Dene

  • Type of Service
    • Residential Home
  • Privately Owned
  • For a maximum of 50 Service Users
  • Primary Care Categories
  • Dementia
  • Older Person Care
  • Respite Care
  • Care Offered
  • Alzheimer's
  • Other Care Provided
  • Own GP if required

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Paul Fletcher (Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (50)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms (0)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Last Refurbishment: 2013

Funding & Fees Guide for Hardwick Dene

  • 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 £1,100 – £1,300
    • Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care £1,100 – £1,300
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care £1,200 – £1,300
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Dementia Care £1,200 – £1,300
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact Hardwick Dene to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

  • Gardens
  • Lift
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Own Furniture if required
  • Residents Internet Access
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Stairlift
  • Television point in own room
  • Wheelchair Access

Hardwick Dene Reviews (42)

Total of 42, showing 1-20
9.9

Hardwick Dene has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.890) out of 10, based on 16 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Hardwick Dene has 42 reviews.

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Review from Martin B (Son of Resident) published on 3 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I know that my elderly father receives the best of care at Hardwick Dene. The staff are friendly, kind and attentive to his needs and there's excellent communication from them to me regarding his well being.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

We really appreciate your lovely comments, it's very kind, thank you.


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Review from H G (Daughter of Resident) published on 19 February 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum has been a resident since 2019 and her Alzheimer's progression means her needs have changed over that time, but throughout she has been treated with care, respect and dignity. She still gains great enjoyment from all of the activities that go on during the week and the staff always try and get everyone
involved. As a family, we are always made to feel welcome when we visit and are thoughtfully consulted on Mum's ongoing care. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend Hardwick Dene.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you so much for your kind words. It is a pleasure to care for your mum.


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Review from Derrick P (Son of Resident) published on 31 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I wanted to write a review on the fabulous care that my Mum receives from Hardwicke Dene. The care she gets on a daily basis, I know she can be difficult at times, but ALL the staff at the home go above and beyond their duties and make sure Mum is taken care of. Dementia is such a horrible disease and
to deal with memory loss every minute of every day is so hard.
But Hardwicke Dene you can rest assured will care for your relative in every way possible and would recommend them to anyone when that time comes.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

We really appreciate such kind comments and I will certainly share them with all the staff here.


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Review from S N (Daughter of Resident) published on 31 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mum has been at Hardwick Dene for over a year now. She has Alzheimer's which is slowly progressing. The staff are so patient and supportive of her needs. There are daily activities morning and afternoon. Lots going on out in the garden in the summer months. The residents are always encouraged to
join us be it baking, crafts, singing, exercise, live entertainers. The rooms are good.
It is clean and comfortable.
Maybe not as shiny and new looking as some of the fancy care homes that resemble hotels but the care here is so so good. That is what is important!
They really treat everyone like part of a big family.
I would recommend this care home to anyone over all the others.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

That is so kind of you to write such a lovely review of our home. Thank you.


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Review from sharon d (Daughter of Resident) published on 31 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

When mum went into hospital and was then taken to the care home as we could not meet her needs any longer, it was obviously a worrying time for us all particularly as we hadn't viewed the care home. When we arrived to take mums belongings and check she was ok we was instantly uplifted by the warm welcome
it was really comforting to know that mum was being looked after by warm and caring people. Mum is very happy the staff always encourage her to mix and she has made friends and is doing really well, so much so that she looks much healthier and happier than before she went there. The staff keep us informed about everything and we are very happy with Hardwick Dene.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

We are so pleased that your mum has settled in so quickly and that you are happy with everything we are doing. Thank you so much for your comments.


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Review from Andy A (Son of Resident) published on 31 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both my mum and dad have been in Hardwick Dene in the last few years. Staff have always been kind and helpful to my parents but also to us as visitors. Very happy with the care they've both received over the years.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

We really appreciate your amazing comments. Thank you.


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Review from A J (Son of Resident) published on 31 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Moved our Mum to Hardwick Dene in 2019. We have nothing but praise for the team there.
They have looked after our Mum as her needs have evolved, with plenty of activities when she was capable of them, transitioning to increased care as this has been needed.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you so much for your kind comments, I will pass them on to the team.


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Review from C H (Mother of Resident) published on 25 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Mum moved into Hardwick Dene in 2019.
Since then I have found the staff to be very supportive. I live some distance away which means I am unable to visit as often as I’d like but I am always made welcome and included.
Mum receives the care she needs, this has increased over time. She has a lovely
room, she enjoys the food and she gets on well with the staff. The staff are a cheerful and friendly team which must be beneficial for the residents.
I am happy with the care Mum receives at Hardwick Dene.

Reply from Karrie Wenn, Deputy Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you for your kind review. I shall pass your comments on to the staff.


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Review from C D (Daughter of Resident) published on 22 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Knowing that my mother is extremely well looked after by a friendly, knowledgeable and kind team at Hardwick Dene, is hugely comforting. Mum's individual needs are met daily and should anything ever arise I am contacted immediately for consultation. Recently I have been included in Mum's Care Plan Review
and I felt comfortable asking questions, which were answered with clarity. Some small suggestions by myself were listened to and implemented, showing great flexibility by the team. Mum is always treated with dignity and her personal needs are administered in a caring way; allowing her to retain the independence that she still has. The meals at Hardwick Dene are also of an excellent standard, freshly cooked on-site, offering a wide range of choice throughout the week. Mum's room is a good size, with an en-suite bathroom, which is cleaned to an immaculate standard. I can’t speak highly enough of Hardwick Dene and thank the whole team for the excellent care they provide for my mother.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you so much for those kind comments I will pass them on to the team.


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Review from Clare R (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Hardwick Dene is a lovely Care Home with great staff who really care for the residents, not just physically but emotionally as well.
My Dad is non-verbal due to his dementia but I can tell how much he likes the staff and appreciates all they do for him. He has not been too well recently but the care
they have given has been amazing and we are kept fully informed at all times of day or night.
You are able to contact the home in between visits to find out how your loved one is, nothing is too much trouble for the staff.
There is plenty of entertainment every day to suit all needs from live music, quizzes, bingo, arts and crafts and cooking.
All in all a lovely care home where residents and their families feel part of everything.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you for your kind comments. It is our pleasure to have your dad with us.


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Review from M R (Daughter of Resident) published on 25 August 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Whilst staying at Hardwick Dene, my mum has received personalised care tailored to her individual needs. The home always keeps me updated on any changes in Mum's health, and she is treated with kindness and dignity.
All of the staff are welcoming and friendly whenever I visit Mum, and nothing is too
much trouble.
I am confident in the knowledge that Mum is receiving the best care possible at Hardwick Dene.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you very much for your kind comments; I will pass them on to the whole team.


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Review from J K (Niece of Resident) published on 4 August 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Since March 2020 my aunt has lived in Hardwick Dene, having 24/7 care and knowing she's safe is priceless. My aunt has had numerous falls and ill health. Nothing is too much trouble, and if there is any 'issue' of any kind once mentioned- you can rest assured it will be dealt with.
Visiting isn't limited
to set times, the only bugbear will always be the parking - lack of. This can cause some disruption especially if you need to park alongside the path, to allow for wheelchairs or people with mobility concerns. Walking across stones is really not good at all and a health safety concern!
Also always kept posted, regarding aunt's care should there be any concern. I actually wrote too much for this review and had to go back and delete quite a lot, unfortunately. Which is a shame! All positive.
Too close to all management, office staff, carers and absolutely everyone employed by Hardwick Dene in Buckden - we are very happy with, and long may this high-quality care reign.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you very much for your kind words. It is our pleasure to care for your aunt.


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Review from Mandy B (Niece of Resident) published on 4 August 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Having had previous experience of family in residential care I am completely overawed by the care given at Hardwick Dene. The atmosphere is very calm and the staff are without a doubt completely professional and caring, all being very attentive with smiles and kind words, recognising individual's needs.
There are spaces for quiet time and/or activities with everyone encouraged to be a part of the family. It is very apparent that there is a huge amount of thought 'behind the scenes' by a dedicated group of people whose vocation is clear to see. I have absolute belief that my aunty is receiving wonderful care and I also feel cared for and welcome when visiting. In what is clearly a very difficult and challenging time for all involved I cannot praise the team at Hardwick Dene enough, thank you so much to all.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you for such kind words, I will pass them on to the whole team.


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Review from Nigel S (Son of Resident) published on 1 August 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The home has a relaxed atmosphere, with a good mix of activities and entertainment. Meals are tasty and appealing, plentiful and of a high standard.
The staff are professional and good-natured, providing care for the residents with respect and empathy. The emphasis is placed on dignity and quality
of life.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you for those kind words, we really enjoy having your dad here.


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Review from Dave S (Son of Resident) published on 1 August 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My father has been a resident now for two years, all the staff are brilliant and it feels like one big happy family. They go the extra mile where residents are concerned and always make the family welcome to.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you very much for your kind words. It is our pleasure to look after your dad.


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Review from Sally C (Wife of Resident) published on 8 June 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My husband has just had his first experience of respite in Hardwick Dene. Although very pleased to see me when I picked him up after his week’s stay he straight way said to the staff “I shall be back” which was a very good indication that he had enjoyed his stay. I was very impressed by how friendly,
helpful and efficient all the staff were. Hopefully he shall “return” for his next respite week. Thank you all so much.

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Review from Eileen A (Wife of Resident) published on 11 August 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My husband is happy, well looked after. Amazing activities dail. Staff considerate, professional and lovely. I would highly recommend if you are thinking of a home for someone you love. It is just the place.

Reply from Paul Fletcher, Manager at Hardwick Dene

Thank you for your kind words. It is our pleasure to look after your husband.


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Review from E C (Daughter of Resident) published on 7 December 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My Dad went into Hardwick Dene in May 2021. We were very worried about him and how he would settle. He has settled well thanks to the care and attention the staff have given him. He is relaxed and content. The setting of Hardwick has suited my Dad really well as it's surrounded by beautiful countryside
and it's very peaceful. During the summer months, the marquee in the garden was put to good use with the residents enjoying live music and gentle exercise. The food is good and my Dad has gained a little weight since arriving at Hardwick. The staff and management are a very cheerful and happy group of people who are constantly chatting, caring, laughing with the residents. Unfortunately due to Covid visiting has been more structured with an appointment system in place. The staff make sure we have regular contact with Dad with two visits per week but more if there are extra spaces which there quite often is.

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Review from Kerry F (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 July 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

When my mum first went into Hardwick Dene, we were very worried about her going into a care home. After an initial settling in period, my mum has flourished over the past 12-months, which is of great comfort to us.
The staff are extremely caring and look after the residents really well. There are
normally a lot of activities, trips out and fun things to do. Obviously with Covid-19 things have changed, but the staff do their best to keep the residents occupied and happy. The home is well managed and thanks to their quick action, closed the home really early to prevent an outbreak of Covid and whilst it has been difficult not seeing family members, the residents and staff have been kept safe.
There is a lovely garden area for the residents to enjoy; a new marquee which they use a lot, weather permitting. The residents themselves seem to be relaxed and happy.

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Review from Julie W (Daughter of Resident) published on 9 July 2020
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Dad has been a resident here for 11-months.
Hardwick Dene is a happy place with beautiful grounds. The indoor area is well maintained, and there have been lots of lovely refurbishments of communal areas.
All staff are friendly, helpful and caring, and there is normally lots going on to entertain
residents.
Difficult times for all since Covid-19 it’s been 4-months since we have been able to visit, but the home has acted very professionally to protect all the residents and keep them safe.
WhatsApp and Zoom meetings have been available to keep in touch.
Very happy with Hardwick Dene overall.

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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.890)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.890) out of 10 for Hardwick Dene is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.9 out of 5 from 16 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 16 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 4.890 for Hardwick Dene is calculated as follows: ( (170 Excellents x 5) + (21 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 191 Ratings = 4.89

  • 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 Hardwick Dene is based on 16 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 50 registered maximum number of service users is 10, which has been reached with 16 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: 5 Jan 2018

Overall
Good

  • Caring

    Good

  • Effective

    Good

  • Responsive

    Good

  • Safe

    Good

  • Well-led

    Good

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

View Latest Report

Bed Vacancies

2 Bed Vacancies

posted 11 Mar 2025

One en-suite and one non en-suite with garden views available


Awards / Recognitions (1)

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Meet the Team (3)

Paul

Paul Fletcher

Job Title: Care Home Manager

Joined: 2018

Hello, my name is Paul and I have been working in the Healthcare sector since 2009, joining Hardwick Dene as the Home Manager in 2018.


And my team pride itself on creating a warm and friendly atmosphere for all our residents and their family members in beautiful surroundings.


Karrie

Karrie Prior

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2015

Hi, I'm Karrie and I have been in the care industry since 2009 and I have been at Hardwick Dene since 2015.


Robin

Robin Bennett

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2014

I have been here at Hardwick Dene since 2014


Frequently Asked Questions about Hardwick Dene

What types of Care is Hardwick Dene registered for?

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

What additional types of Care does Hardwick Dene provide?

Own GP if required is an additional type of care provided.

How many Rooms does Hardwick Dene have?

There are 50 Single Rooms.

What are the Facilities & Services at Hardwick Dene?

Own Furniture if required, Smoking not permitted, Minibus or other transport, Lift, Stairlift, Wheelchair Access, Gardens, Television point in own room & Residents Internet Access are some of the Facilities & Services.

How far is Hardwick Dene to the centre of St Neots?

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