Celebrating life at Barchester

Staff and residents had a fantastic time visiting Aberdeen Art Gallery where they all enjoyed the multiple themed rooms with different styles, periods and ideas.  Residents and staff had a brilliant time taking a stroll around the gallery admiring the classical portraits and abstract and contemporary works, afterwards they enjoyed a lovely cup of tea and some bakes at the café.

Activities Assistant, Harsha said: “We absolutely love being able to take our residents out and about to visit the art gallery, it makes us so happy to be able to access venues like this.  It has been a fantastic day and we’ve all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.” Bob, resident said: “There was so much to see, I want to go visit again and look at each piece of art slowly.” 

Residents were recently treated to a special experience from Shaun our chef who served up wonderful scallops.

This delicious dish was enjoyed by all, with residents praising it as a real treat and something a little different. 

Residents were treated to a truly unforgettable experience when a group of friendly alpacas paid a special visit, making one resident’s dream come true. The visit was arranged after resident Gill shared her wish to spend time with alpacas. Thanks to the dedication of the team at Newton House and support from the Barchester Wish Initiative, her dream became a reality, bringing joy not only to Gillian but to fellow residents and staff as well.

The visit, delivered by J & J Alpacas, saw the gentle animals ‘Teal & Bellamy’ spending time with residents, offering cuddles, photo opportunities and plenty of smiles throughout the home

There was music, laughter, and plenty of singing along this week as resident Jean had her special wish come true as part of the home’s ongoing wish initiative.

Jean, a lifelong fan of Neil Diamond, has always had a deep love for his music and has been fortunate enough to see him perform live several times over the years. With treasured memories attached to his songs, Jean shared that her heartfelt wish was to experience the magic of his music once again.

Determined to make this happen, the Activities team arranged an incredible tribute performance from the Neil Diamond Songbook, bringing the spirit and songs of the legendary artist right to Jean’s doorstep.

From the moment the music began, Jean was smiling, singing, and fully immersed in the performance. Staff, residents, and visitors joined in the celebration, creating a joyful atmosphere filled with nostalgia and happiness, especially during a heartfelt rendition of “Sweet Caroline.”

Residents had an amazing morning as they joined the South Kesteven Walking Festival’s ‘Walk with A Time Traveller’ at the beautiful Wellhead Park.

Residents, family and staff joined over 20 members of the public who had gathered to hear the history of Bourne through a fascinating and very entertaining presentation led by Irene the Time Traveller. The talk covered the history of Bourne Castle, Hereward the Outlaw, the Wake and Beaufort families, Robert Manning, and the Great Fire of Bourne; whilst taking a leisurely stroll through the scenic park with its blossoming trees and fountains.

Our homes hospitality team have passed a recent inspection by the Food Standards Agency with 5 Stars, the best possible rating. The Food Standards Agency visited the home unannounced in April 2026 and was rated 5 Stars with nothing to improve upon.

Helen, Operations Manager said: “We are delighted that Mallard Court was rated 5 Stars following the Food Standard Agency’s most recent inspection. The team at Mallard Court work so hard to ensure the home has the very best hygiene levels so it is wonderful to have everyone’s hard work recognised.”