Residential Care Torridge

Residential care provides accommodation and around-the-clock support for individuals who need assistance with daily activities such as personal care, mobility or medication, while still wanting to maintain independence and enjoy a social environment.

Residential care is typically suitable for older adults who may struggle to manage safely at home alone or who would benefit from companionship and regular support with everyday tasks.

Residential care provides 24-hour support from trained carers, while nursing care also includes clinical care delivered by registered nurses for residents with more complex medical needs.

Yes. Residents are encouraged to bring personal belongings, photographs and decorations so their room feels familiar and comfortable, helping them settle into their new home.

Family involvement is very important to us. Visitors are always welcome and we encourage loved ones to remain an active part of residents’ lives.

Highwood Care Home is located at Abbotsham Road, Bideford EX39 3AB. It’s easily reached via the A386 from Barnstaple or the Atlantic Highway (A39) from the west. For example, Bideford is only about 11 miles (18 km) from Barnstaple by road, follow the A386 west into Bideford and then onto Abbotsham Road. Visitors coming from the south-west (e.g. Exeter) can take the A30/A396 toward Barnstaple (about 43 mi, /1¼ hrs), then continue on the A386. We provide ample free onsite parking for all visitors, so you can park close to the entrance when you arrive.

Bideford does not have its own railway station, the nearest station is Barnstaple, about 9 miles away. Trains on the scenic Tarka Line run roughly hourly from Exeter St Davids (and Exeter Central) to Barnstaple. From Barnstaple station, families can take the Stagecoach 21 or 21A bus (approximately 30 minutes) into Bideford or use a taxi for the 11-mile journey. (For example, the trip from Exeter to Bideford typically involves an hour+ train ride to Barnstaple, then a 30-minute bus.) In total, a rail journey from Exeter via Barnstaple to Bideford usually takes around 2–2½ hours, including the train–bus transfer.

Bideford is well served by local Stagecoach South West buses. Route 21/21A runs between Barnstaple and Appledore/Westward Ho! via Bideford and Route 319 runs from Barnstaple to Hartland, stopping on Abbotsham Road near Highwood. Bideford’s main bus station (on Mill Street near the town centre) is only a short walk from Abbotsham Road. In practice, look for Stagecoach stops marked “Bideford” or “Abbotsham Road” when planning your trip. Families should check the Stagecoach or Traveline websites for the latest timetables and any service updates, to plan the most convenient bus journey.

Our home is designed to be fully accessible. It has a step-free main entrance (with a gentle ramp) and wide level corridors, and the facility includes a passenger lift and full wheelchair access. We also have level onsite parking right beside the entrance. Our friendly staff are always on hand to assist any visitors with mobility needs, ensuring everyone can reach residents’ rooms comfortably and enjoy their visit.