Merlewood

Hollow Lane, Virginia Water GU25 4LR
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9.7 84 Reviews
  • Merlewood, Virginia Water
Merlewood Nursing & Residential Home is a converted Victorian house with bedrooms purpose-built all on the ground floor for nursing and elderly care needs, located within 23-acre grounds and surrounded by the picturesque Surrey landscape.

The service keeps close links with related health services, including hospices, GPs in order to ensure personal care packages remain updated and effective to each individual.

Many trips, outings and events are organised as part of the home's activities programme, including musical entertainment, art and handicrafts, film shows and garden fetes.

With 42 beautifully appointed rooms, Merlewood provides a range of care types, including residential care, nursing and palliative care, and respite and short stay options, all tailored to individual needs with personalised care plans.

Merlewood is a converted Victorian house with all bedrooms on the ground floor enjoying views of the beautifully landscaped grounds. Merlewood has a tranquil atmosphere that feels like home. Residents enjoy the beauty of nature with manicured gardens, quiet walking paths, and outdoor seating areas ideal for relaxation. Known for its vibrant community and active social calendar, designed to cater to varied interests and abilities. From art classes and music therapy to themed events, residents are encouraged to engage, connect, and thrive.

Dining at Merlewood is a daily enjoyment. The in-house chef prepares nutritious and delicious meals using fresh and seasonal menus, served in an elegant dining room where residents dine together.

Merlewood’s warm and welcoming team ensures each resident feels valued, supported, and cared for in every aspect of daily life, making it a place where comfort, companionship, and exceptional care come together seamlessly.

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Care Provided by Merlewood

  • Primary Care Categories
  • Mental Health Condition
  • No Medical Intervention
  • Older Person Care
  • Physical Disability
  • Respite Care
  • Sensory Impairment
  • Care Types Provided
  • Nursing Care
  • Residential Care
  • For a maximum of 54 Service Users
  • Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
  • Care Offered
  • AIDS/HIV
  • Asperger Syndrome
  • Autism/ASD
  • Bipolar/Manic Depression
  • Cancer Care
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Colitis & Crohn's Disease
  • COPD/Pulmonary Disease
  • Epilepsy
  • Head/Brain Injury
  • Hearing Impairment
  • Motor Neurone Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Muscular Dystrophy
  • Neuropathic
  • Orthopaedic
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Speech Impairment
  • Stroke
  • Visual Impairment
  • Other Care Provided
  • Convalescent Care
  • End of Life Care
  • Own GP if required
  • Palliative Care
  • Physiotherapy

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Debbie Vellender (General Manager)
  • Admission Criteria
    • Ages 65+
  • Room Information
    • Single Rooms (54)
    • Couples/Companion Rooms (0)
  • Care Home Design/Build
    • Purpose Built: Yes
    • Last Refurbishment: 2022
    • Number of floors: 1

Funding & Fees Guide for Merlewood

  • 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 from £1,500
    • Self-Funded Nursing Care from £2,250
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Residential Care from £1,600
    • RESPITE Self-Funded Nursing Care from £2,350

  • We will apply for NHS-funded Nursing Care (FNC) for all residents receiving nursing care and if awarded this will be deducted from your fees.
  • (these prices are only a guideline, please contact Merlewood to find out the exact price for your requirements)

Facilities

  • Bar/Café
  • Close to Local shops
  • Gardens
  • Ground Floor Accommodation only
  • Minibus or other transport
  • Near Public Transport
  • Own Furniture if required
  • Phone Point in own room
  • Residents Internet Access
  • Residents Kitchenette
  • Smoking not permitted
  • Television point in own room
  • Wheelchair Access
  • Visiting

  • The home have an open visiting policy.


  • Parking

  • Ample parking on site and disabled parking by the entrance.


Merlewood Reviews (84)

Total of 84, showing 21-40
9.7

Merlewood has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.653) out of 10, based on 23 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Merlewood has 84 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 68
  • 14
  • 2
  • 0
  • 0

Date Published

84
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Review from Les H (Son of Resident) published on 21 July 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother moved into Merlewood recently and is very happy with her residence here. The staff are wonderful and nothing is any trouble. They are always compassionate, smiling and friendly. Her room is always clean!

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for your lovely words and comments. I am so pleased your mum feels at home here.


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Review from Sue S (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 4 July 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The staff here at Merlewood are fabulous, very caring and nothing is too much trouble.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

It has been a pleasure to be able to support your grandmother and yourselves with the move to Merlewood. I will share your review with the staff.


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Review from Mike H (Son of Resident) published on 9 June 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I looked after over a dozen care homes in and around the area before I chose Merlewood. In my opinion, the home, staff and management are by far the best that I came across. The surroundings are beautiful, the home is peaceful, and the rooms have outdoor access to lovely gardens. The room itself is
of a high standard and can be modified to suit your needs. Mum's been there nearly eight months, and I'm more than happy and glad I chose Merlewood.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for your lovely review. Everyone is making the most of having very easy garden access in the sunshine.


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Review from G T (Respite Resident) published on 10 March 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I was at the home for four weeks having come straight from four weeks in hospital having a heart operation. It was the perfect way to find myself again before going home. I can not emphasise how well I was treated and helped me to become independent again. All staff were so kind and helpful without
exception and I tried to take part in activities such as carpet bowls, balloon tennis and card games.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

It was a pleasure to help in your recovery. We are glad you have continued to rebuild your strength even more since going home.


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Review from Jennifer T (Wife of Resident) published on 28 February 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My husband needed respite care following an extended stay in the hospital. When he arrived, he had virtually no mobility. Merlewood proved to be the ideal care home for the provision of medical, personal and recuperative care he needed. All the staff were really positive and actively helped him to retain
better health, mobility and positivity. We could not have asked for more. As his wife, I had complete confidence in the care he was receiving, which was also an important reassurance for me in what was a very difficult situation for us both.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for your lovely review. It is a pleasure to have supported your husband's recovery.


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Review from J L (Daughter of Resident) published on 11 January 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My father has been at Merlewood for six months. He is well looked after and the carers are supportive and friendly in their interactions with him. He can be rather rigid and exacting in his views and opinions but they display patience and accommodate him as much as possible to maintain the limited independence
he has. When dealing with management issues, I have found the staff to be helpful and reactive to my needs. Merlewood is a welcoming establishment for both visitors and residents.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for your review and taking the time to complete it. A person centred individual approach to care of the resident and their loved ones is very important to us.


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Review from Angela M (Resident) published on 10 January 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

In 2022 after a long period of pain and difficulty with an infected knee joint I spent four weeks in hospital, following which my husband and I felt that a further week of recuperation being cosseted in Merlewood would be very beneficial. And so it proved. Every single member of staff from the manager
through to all nursing staff from sisters to students, to the cleaners and handymen, were highly competent, friendly and patient, both day and night. At the end of my week, I felt much more ready to return home. I have further surgery in store and shall go to Merlewood again after my final operation. We knew about Merlewood because my mother spent three years there from 2005 to 2008. She died there peacefully aged 94. Having been very happy and safe there during that time. It was reassuring that there were still staff at Merlewood who remembered her fourteen years later.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to complete this review. We were glad to help in your recovery and look forward to seeing you again soon after the next surgery.


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Review from Jan M (Daughter of Resident) published on 20 December 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother moved in five months ago at the age of 94 years. We knew immediately that it was the right place for her. The staff are so welcoming, nothing is too much trouble. She enjoys an active social life and loves the food and the surroundings. I would highly recommend this beautiful care home to
anyone looking for a relaxed gentle atmosphere. Well done Merlewood.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for your lovely review. We are very fortunate to have a fantastic team dedicated to ensuring residents receive the care and interaction they need.


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Review from R B (Daughter of Resident) published on 1 December 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My mother came to Merlewood with dementia and was initially quite bewildered but settled in so well and was made to feel welcome by the fabulous nurses.
The staff at Merlewood are so friendly and chatty, going out of their way to do everything they can and are a real joy to be around.
They take care
of my mother so well. I will arrive unannounced, and she is dressed up in pearls with hair nicely done; they are all very aware of how important it is to keep a person's dignity.
My mother has a lovely, big room overlooking a pretty well-kept courtyard garden with attractive flowers in the spring and summer.
I have to say, if I ever needed to go to a nursing home, I would be very happy at Merlewood.
It really is quite outstanding. I have visited friends' parents in various other homes, and Merlewood is really quite exceptional in comparison.
I am happy that she can see out her last years in such a pleasant place.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

We are very proud of our staff team and would like to thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. We will ensure they are shared with everyone.


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Review from J K (Nephew of Resident) published on 30 September 2022
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

1st class care home, so much so that my uncle is talking about going back during the winter to catch up with all the friends he has made. He has enjoyed the organised events, food and the friendliness of all the staff. We were even able to book a meal to eat with our uncle when we visited.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you. We are pleased that your uncle has made friends at Merlewood, and enjoyed staying with us.


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Review from Nick B (Son of Resident) published on 30 August 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Although only three weeks stay, my mum had the very best care at Merlewood.
My mum's end-of-life care was exemplary thank you to you all.
I will always remember your kindness and support.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

We are always honoured to be chosen to care for someone and their family at the end of their life. Thank you for your lovely review.


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Review from R T (Respite Resident) published on 26 August 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I had a brief stay of a month here following a spell in hospital. The friendly staff had a high standard of care and cleanliness throughout. They were very attentive in ensuring that I had a comfortable stay. There is the added bonus that the premises are surrounded by a large peaceful garden.

Reply from Claire Davis, Home Administrator at Merlewood

Thank you. We are glad that you enjoyed a pleasant and peaceful stay at Merlewood. Our grounds are indeed a huge bonus for those who enjoy the outdoors and the wildlife. We are very lucky!


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Review from Deborah H (Respite Resident) published on 24 August 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I had had an accident and could not look after myself. The only place I could think of was the home where my mother lives, Merlewood. The care/staff is everything one could want friendly, knowledgable and professional. I would thoroughly recommend Merlewood.

Reply from Claire Davis, Home Administrator at Merlewood

Thank you for your kind comments regarding the care you received at Merlewood. Glad we could help you to get back on your feet.


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Review from R S (Resident) published on 18 August 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I find all the carers kind, thoughtful and very supportive.
The atmosphere at Merlewood is happy, homely and friendly and the outside spaces are a real bonus.
Tere have been problems with the quality with the food, but I understand that improvements are on the way.

Reply from Claire Davis, Home Administrator at Merlewood

We are very proud of our staff, many who have been here for a very long time! Thank you for mentioning them - it is always very gratifying for them to receive kind comments like yours.
We are also pleased that you are enjoying the outside spaces - a real bonus in the warm weather! We are lucky that we enjoy such a fabulous location.


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Review from C K (Resident) published on 9 August 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The lovely staff have made my stay so pleasant and successful in supporting my recovery. They've been kind, thoughtful and gone out of their way to help - and always with a smile.
The facilities here are very comfortable, clean and fresh. The courtyard gardens are delightful and very relaxing not
too formal. All in all, a lovely atmosphere.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to review your stay at Merlewood. I will share your comments with the team. We wish you well with your ongoing recovery.


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Review from Glenys C (Respite Resident) published on 29 June 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have really enjoyed my short stay.
It was nice to see some people I recognised from my last stay here and to meet some new people this time. The staff, as usual, were lovely. Nothing was too much trouble. I really enjoyed the trips out.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

It was lovely to see you again and we also enjoyed having you stay with us. We look forward to seeing you again soon.


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Review from Ronald M (Resident) published on 30 May 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I was struck immediately by the kindness and friendliness of all the staff and such residents that I met. The home was a very happy place, despite the sadness that the residents must have had in their lives prior to entering the home.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

We are glad you enjoyed your stay and we look forward to welcoming you back later in the year.


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Review from Barbara B (Wife of Resident) published on 10 March 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Very well treated with kindness and dignity.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

It was a pleasure to have you stay with us. We are glad to have been able to help in your time of need. We look forward to seeing you again.


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Review from Debbie H (Granddaughter of Resident) published on 20 January 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I know that my grandad is well looked after. The staff here are so friendly and caring. I know Grandad is safe. We have really enjoyed the Christmas fair and other activities. It is always good fun and very welcoming.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to complete this review. I am glad your grandad is settled and happy at Merlewood.


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Review from M B (Friend of Resident) published on 17 January 2022
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our dear friend has been so very happy since moving to Merlewood Nursing Home. She is even walking after physio being able to come and see here twice weekly. Such a huge difference in her way of life and companionship from all at Merlewood.
It is such a pleasure to come and visit her there and all
residents seem very happy as we walk through.
Thoroughly recommend to all looking for a happy, clean and beautiful residential home for loved ones unable to look after themselves at home.

Reply from Debbie Vellender, General Manager at Merlewood

Thank you for taking the time to complete and submit your review. We take pride in the care and support we offer. I will share your comments with the team.


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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 Merlewood 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 23 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 21 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 Merlewood is calculated as follows: ( (200 Excellents x 5) + (54 Goods x 4) + (19 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 274 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 Merlewood is based on 21 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 54 registered maximum number of service users is 10.8, which has been reached with 21 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: 22 May 2019

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

Please Contact Us for Latest Vacancies

Awards / Recognitions (2)

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Meet the Team (1)

Debbie

Debbie Vellender

Job Title: General Manager

Joined: 2013

Debbie trained as a nurse at St George’s Hospital Tooting and Queen Mary’s Hospital Roehampton in the 90’s. This was followed with over 20 years nursing in the NHS, mainly within Medical and Elderly care, working her way to the position of Advanced (Clinical) Site Practitioner at a large local hospital. It was during this time that Debbie’s passion for care of the elderly blossomed, along with the personal fulfilment of getting to know people in her care, and their families.


Debbie moved into Social Care at Merlewood in 2013 as Deputy/Clinical Care Manager to use her skills and experience in a different aspect of elderly medical care. In 2019 Debbie became General Manager of the home. Debbie gets huge satisfaction from leading a team of like-minded compassionate individuals; Merlewood residents and staff have become a second family to her.