Southlands Care Home is a charming and elegant residence in Newton Abbot. We offer a comfortable and entertaining lifestyle for our residents, with a focus on activities, good food, and personal care.
As residential care specialists, you can be assured of finding like-minded folk to share your experiences with and a service that balances physical support with the joys of living.
Our home is beautifully appointed, reflecting a baronial architectural style and the chateaux of France, making it one of the most striking buildings in Newton Abbot. We have two large, air-conditioned lounges, and custom-fitted joinery adorns our open plan dining room. The whole ambience is designed to communicate comfort and elegance at its heart.
We offer a variety of activities for our residents, including regular entertainers, full time activities coordinators, and care team members who love to have a laugh and joke. We also have a beautiful garden where we hold high tea and entertain in the summer.
Our food is an indulgent pleasure, with a range of options at each meal, wines and other tipples, and special taster plates to sample dishes from around the world.
As a smaller home, we are proud to be able to offer care with a personal touch. Everyone in our team knows our residents well, and we pride ourselves on getting to know each person individually and learning about the little things that matter to them.
As a smaller care home, we are able to create a warm, family-like environment where residents, staff, and families feel truly at home. Our manager isn’t a distant figure—you’ll see them regularly, involved in day-to-day life. Whether you have a question, concern, or simply want to chat, you’ll know exactly who to turn to. It’s this hands-on approach that helps us build strong, lasting relationships with every resident and their loved ones.
After qualifying as a nurse early in my career, my professional journey took a detour when I established and ran my own business while raising my family. Following our relocation from Zimbabwe to the United Kingdom, I embraced the opportunity to return to my true calling in healthcare.
In 2000, I joined Southlands as a carer and deputy manager, advancing to the role of home manager in 2003—a position I've held with pride for over two decades. Throughout my tenure, I've carefully assembled a dedicated team of carers, many of whom have remained with us for years, contributing to our stable and nurturing environment.
Together, we've created more than just a care facility; we've built a warm, compassionate home where residents truly feel they belong. Our philosophy centres on enabling residents to live fulfilling lives filled with joy and meaningful engagement. We encourage them to maintain existing friendships, form new social connections, participate in purposeful activities and explore new experiences and interests.
We firmly believe that age should never limit one's ability to try something new. Whether enjoying time with family, participating in home activities, or venturing out on excursions, our residents are supported in living their lives to the fullest.
At Southlands, we’ve created a warm and welcoming environment designed to feel like home from the moment you arrive. With 31 bedrooms, the majority of which are en-suite, and a range of thoughtfully designed communal spaces, our home offers comfort, privacy, and the opportunity to connect with others.
Each bedroom is carefully decorated in calming tones and fully furnished to provide a peaceful, private space where residents can relax and unwind. We encourage everyone to personalise their rooms with photos, mementos, and favourite pieces to make it truly feel like their own.
In-room features include:
A television with Freeview
WiFi access
Full furnishing and soft lighting
Telephone or access to cordless phones so calls can be taken wherever you like
An emergency call system, offering peace of mind 24/7
Our accommodation extends far beyond the bedroom. Residents have access to 2 comfortable lounges and a bright, spacious dining room — ideal settings for socialising, enjoying meals, or simply spending time with visitors. These shared spaces are the heart of the home, designed to foster companionship and community while offering plenty of room for individual choice and quiet moments.
Outside, a secure and beautifully maintained garden offers a tranquil space to enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s a stroll among the flowers, catching up with family, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon with a cup of tea, the garden provides a peaceful escape and regular opportunities for seasonal activities.
Whether you prefer quiet time in your room, group activities with friends, or fresh air in the garden, our accommodation is built around your comfort, choice, and wellbeing.
We believe that life in our home should be vibrant, fulfilling, and full of opportunity. That’s why we place such a strong emphasis on wellbeing — physical, emotional, and social. Our activities programme is carefully curated to offer a rich mix of experiences tailored to individual interests and abilities. From sing-alongs and arts & crafts to light exercise classes, gardening, and quiet one-to-one sessions, there’s something for everyone.
Activities are more than just a schedule — they’re woven into our daily care. Our team members take time to connect personally with residents, encouraging involvement and supporting those who may be shy at first to find their spark.
We also welcome visiting entertainers, local school groups, and regularly organise community outings, helping residents stay connected with the world around them.
A Partnership with Family and Friends
We know how important it is for families to stay involved in their loved one’s care. That’s why we see care as a partnership — between the resident, the home, and the family.
With your consent, family members are invited to be active participants in your care journey. From regular updates with staff and management to private consultations and unrestricted visiting (where appropriate), we aim to keep communication open and relationships strong.
Your family remains a vital part of your life here — not just welcome visitors, but valued collaborators in your continued wellbeing.
Living with Purpose
Wellbeing isn’t just about comfort — it’s about meaning. Many of our residents enjoy taking part in our Living with Purpose initiative, which offers opportunities to contribute to life at the home or support causes they care about.
Whether it’s helping with light home duties, mentoring others, or getting involved in charitable fundraising, having a role and a reason brings joy and fulfilment — and research shows it supports both mental and physical health.
Food & Dining: Familiar Comforts with a Twist
Mealtimes are about more than nutrition — they’re a highlight of the day. Our kitchen team prepares a variety of traditional and modern meals using fresh, nutritious ingredients delivered twice weekly..
Residents enjoy a choice of dishes and, where appropriate, can pair meals with a glass of red or white wine. We also run themed culinary experiences like Tasty Tuesdays and Fun Fridays, offering bite-sized treats from around the world — from mini Mexican tacos to Indian samosas and Chinese spring rolls.
These events spark curiosity and conversation — and some of the favourites even make their way onto our regular menu. Got something you’ve always wanted to try? Just let us know — we love a new idea.
We know that balancing work, family, and caregiving can be challenging—and we also know how important it is for older adults to feel connected, stimulated, and safe. That’s why our Day Care service offers a flexible, welcoming solution.
For just £60 per day, your loved one can spend the day with us enjoying a freshly prepared meal, a warm and friendly atmosphere, and the chance to take part in our home’s full activity programme—from games and crafts to sing-alongs and gentle exercise.
Whether staying for lunch, joining us for the whole day, or simply popping in for a bath and a cuppa, our guests are always treated with dignity, warmth, and care.
Bathing services are also available for a small additional charge.
Most importantly, we want every guest to leave with a smile.
Want to try it first? Ask us about our free taster days—no obligation, just a warm welcome.
