Finding the right care home can be a difficult process for new residents and their families.
Factors such as staff friendliness, comfort and food all must be taken into account when deciding on the correct location.
Every care home in St Albans has been ranked by CareHome.co.uk, based on customer reviews.
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We've listed the seven best-rated homes across the city.
1. Alban Manor Nursing Home, Chene Drive
Alban Manor Nursing Home sits top of CareHome.co.uk's list for St Albans, with a 9.8 rating out of ten.
The family-owned home opened in 2019 following an extensive refurbishment, and features 80 bedrooms in total.
One reviewer, Rose D, said: "All the staff were extremely caring and compassionate.
"Dad could not have been more loved and cared for in the short space of time he was at the home, which made it more bearable for me and my brother during a very difficult time.
"I would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to everyone at the home."
2. The Orchard Nursing Home, Camp Road
Camp Road's The Orchard Nursing Home has a 9.7 rating on the review site, with 91 people leaving their thoughts.
A warm family atmosphere, highly trained staff and "a luxurious standard of resident comfort" are highlights of the facility.
Reviewer SE wrote: "My mother was transferred to The Orchard Nursing Home from a residential home as her needs changed dramatically.
"Having spent just a month in The Orchard both her physical and mental health have improved far beyond expectations.
"I believe it to be due to the whole team approach which is very caring and planned around the individual needs."
3. Vesta Lodge, Watling View
Vesta Lodge Care Home, in Watling View, has a 9.7 rating with 55 reviewers in total.
A refurbished interior can house up to 61 residents, with care offered for the elderly and those living with dementia.
Linda H commented: "Mum was looked after brilliantly with care and compassion, and Dad always appreciated having a cup of tea made for him when he visited!
"The food was clearly homemade, a good variety and very tasty. Vesta Lodge was always clean and decorated according to the season.
"(I) Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it!"
4. Verulam House Nursing Home, Verulam Road
Located within walking distance of St Albans city centre, Verulam House Nursing Home is another with a 9.7 rating on CareHome.co.uk.
A total of 31 reviewers left their thoughts, with 26 of them giving the site all five stars.
J W wrote: "Verulam House has been wonderful for my brother, he was well looked after and happy there.
"All the staff always spoke when I visited and there is a warm and loving atmosphere. He and I were so grateful for all the care and attention he received.
"I cannot speak more highly of them."
5. Strathmore Lodge, Hall Place Gardens
Eighteen reviewers gave Strathmore Lodge a 9.7 rating on CareHome.co.uk.
The provider has been offering care services for over over 40 years, with 19 bedrooms at the site.
Kevin D said: "Strathmore Lodge provides an excellent level of service and care.
"The manager and another staff member take a close interest in residents, staff and visitors and have built a very welcoming culture that goes out of its way to provide a happy and relaxed atmosphere."
6. Clare Lodge Care Home, Battlefield Road
Clare Lodge Care Home has a 9.5 star rating on the review site, with 27 reviewers leaving their thoughts.
The mock-Tudor home opened in 2008 and has 24 en-suite bedrooms.
Vicky B commented: "Lovely care home, Mum has been a resident for a number of years now.
"Lovely, relaxed, family atmosphere, and the carers are so patient and kind."
7. Fosse House, Ermine Close
Fosse House, in Ermine Close, has a 9.4 rating on CareHome.co.uk.
The purpose-built home provides residential and dementia care with a variety of communal areas, cosy corners, lounges and dining rooms inside.
R S wrote: "My father has been very well cared for during what has been a difficult transition from independent living to residential care.
"During this period his physical health has improved due to a greater level of activity within the home.
"The care team look after him well."
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