We’re absolutely thrilled to share that The Grange has been named one of the Top 10 care homes in the country for Outdoor Space in the inaugural 2025 Lottie Awards. As if that weren’t enough, we’ve also secured a coveted place in Lottie’s list of the UK’s Top 100 care homes – a true double honour for everyone who calls The Grange home. Our garden is considered the Best Care Home Garden. lottie.org
Why the garden matters
The recognition of our garden as the Best Care Home Garden highlights our commitment to providing an exceptional outdoor experience for our residents.
Lottie singled out homes whose outdoor areas go beyond pretty borders, offering meaningful spaces that support wellbeing all year round. At The Grange, our grounds are more than a visual treat; they’re an extension of residents’ daily life – from relaxed afternoon teas on the terrace to gentle strolls around the pond spotting dragonflies and ducks.
This accolade highlights our commitment to creating the Best Care Home Garden that nurtures both beauty and wellbeing.
We’ll be proudly displaying Lottie’s pink award banner at our entrance, and you’ll soon see the new “Best in Outdoor Space” badge on our website too.
A special salute to Batista – 60 years of green-fingered magic
This recognition couldn’t have come at a better moment: 2025 marks Batista’s 60th year tending The Grange’s gardens. Ever since he planted his first rose here in 1965, Batista has poured heart and soul into every lawn stripe and herbaceous border. Many residents will tell you his cheery wave and encyclopaedic plant knowledge are as much a part of life at The Grange as the timbers of our Tudor-style façade.
“The garden has always been my canvas,” Batista says. “But the real reward is seeing residents discover something new in it every day – whether that’s a fresh bloom, a cheeky robin or just a peaceful corner in the sun.”
From all of us – residents, families and staff alike – thank you, Batista, for six decades of dedication.
What this means for residents & families
- Wellbeing first: Outdoor activity has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood and better sleep – benefits our residents enjoy daily.
- Year-round access: Level paths, raised beds and sheltered seating ensure everyone can savour the garden whatever the season.
- Community events: Look out for summer BBQs, bird-watching mornings and our annual sunflower-growing contest.
See it for yourself
We’ve included a favourite photograph of the grounds below (do stop to admire the mirror-perfect pond reflection!). If you haven’t visited recently, why not book a tour, enjoy a slice of cake on the lawn and discover why Lottie’s experts – and our residents – think The Grange’s garden is something special.
Here’s to fresh air, flowers and another 60 years of garden magic at The Grange!
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