I have mobility problems following a stroke.I was introduced to Jill Elliot by Lindsay Grant, Manager, Marden Court.I was most impressed by Jill's professionalism and likeable nature. her first step... See more
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Reviews shaping this summary
Our Mother stays in McCarthy and Stone Haddington. Since the day she moved in has felt very welcome and safe. Sarah Bain the house manager has gone above and beyond as she does with all home owners to... See more
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My mum lives at Joules Place, Market Drayton. Julie Grieves is a great House Manager. Mum loves her apartment . Julie is very kind, cheerful ,helpful and approachable. She solves any problem witho... See more
Company replied
Just completed a short break at Campbell House, Weybridge, Surrey. Perfect location, spotlessly clean and extremely comfortable…. The guest suite is easily located just off reception. A wonderfully... See more
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Company details
- Home Builder
- Construction Company
- Property Management Company
- Real Estate Agents
- Retirement Community
- Retirement Home
Written by the company
We are the UK’s leading developer and manager of retirement communities, offering high quality age-exclusive retirement properties to more than 20,000 homeowners across the UK. For all communities opened since 2010 we remain landlord and managing agent, looking after the wellbeing of our homeowners and managing our properties. We believe that life in older age is something to be enjoyed and celebrated, and our developments offer a welcoming sense of community and a diverse range of facilities and services to enhance everyday life. Our customers are at the heart of what we do and we are proud to have been awarded the Home Builders Federation 5-star customer satisfaction award every year we have taken part in the survey. For developments built prior to 2010, where we are not the landlord nor managing agent, please direct any questions to FirstPort, who look after these schemes.
Written by the company
- Moving Made Easier
- Once you have found your perfect McCarthy Stone property, we offer flexible solutions to help you to make it yours. Our retirement properties are available to buy, rent or part-buy, part-rent. Our sales consultants can help you to choose the right option for you. We know that no matter how often you have moved home it is always daunting; our friendly team are here to help with every step, offering as much, or as little, support and advice as you need. Our range of special offers and services are designed to make the process stress-free and affordable too.
- Try It Before You Buy
- This is a big decision and we want to make sure it is the right one for you. At some developments we offer a complimentary two-nights’ stay. This is a great option for those who wish to experience first-hand what living with us is like. You will have an opportunity to meet our homeowners and staff, including the House Manager, and take a tour of the development. In addition, we can put you in touch with existing homeowners who can share their experiences and answer your questions candidly – just ask our sales consultants for more information.
- Retirement Properties for Sale or Rent
- McCarthy Stone creates award-winning retirement properties for sale or for rent — but it’s the people that turn our developments into fun-filled, friendly, communities (https://www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/media-centre/national-press/mccarthy-stone-secures-five-star-status-for-record-16th-consecutive-year/). We are experts at creating spectacular, safe, low-maintenance, private retirement apartments, bungalows and cottages, in superb locations. But perhaps the best bit is you also get to be part of a retirement community of remarkable individuals (https://www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/great-places-to-live/homeowners-stories/). Join us for new experiences. New friends. New adventures. A life, well lived.
Contact info
100 Holdenhurst Road, BH8 8AL, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
- 0800 310 0532
- www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk
4.7
Excellent
5K reviews
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Impossible to sell
(Urmston, Manchester). My mother purchased a single bed Aug 2021 for £187k. She was hospitalised and had to move to a care home in January 2023. She died there in July 2023. It is now 3 years on and the property remains unsold. It has been on with MS Resales and on the High Street. We have reduced the asking price in stages to £80k with both. Not a sniff of an offer and very few viewings (none from the high street). Honest feedback from the high street is loud and clear - potential buyers turn tail as soon as they learn of the £770+ service charge per month. That is the very real reason they do not sell, no shadow of a doubt. The properties are lovely - the financials are not.
MS - you need to make it very clear to all prosepective residents/buyers that mere death will not forego the ongoing Service Charges and Ground Rent. It is not even reduced. It is the full amount. Ergo MS three years after death are still generating the same monies from her estate as if she was still alive and living there. In the meantime the estate (still in probate because we can't sell) has an accrued debt of £28k payable from proceeds when it does eventually sell.
Why is my long dead mother still subsidising the bistro, paying for garden upkeep that she can't enjoy, paying communal bills for living people, paying for none existent cleaning, water she doesn't use, for a house manager she can't see, alarms she shall never use and all that the service charges include?
The Probate solicitors are now forced down the road of selling to one of these "we'll buy your property cheaply because you are desperate" companies for wait for it.......£40k!!!
I have tried to speak to no end of departments at McCarthy Stone with no satisfaction. In December 2023 I emailed the local Operations Manager a detailed complaint itemising a whole raft of issues. No reply, just silence.
PLEASE - make it clear to buyers that Full service charges remain payable until sold. Falling back on "it's buried somewhere in the contract" is not good enough. Transparency is needed. It's the honest and decent thing to do.
Please don't bring up the sterling work that Resales do. It's lip service and doesn't wash with those that know the reality.
8 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Peter Killick,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We were very sorry to read about your experience and would like to extend our condolences on the loss of your mother.
We appreciate that dealing with a property sale while managing bereavement and probate can be both emotionally and financially challenging, particularly where a property takes longer to sell than anticipated. We understand the frustration this can cause and are sorry to hear of the concerns you have raised.
To maintain the services, safety measures and facilities within a development for all homeowners, service charge liability is linked to ownership of an apartment rather than occupation. This applies whether an apartment is occupied, vacant, or being marketed for sale and is consistent with the wider leasehold property market. Like all leaseholders, McCarthy & Stone also pays service charges on apartments that it owns.
Service charges are governed by legislation and are used to cover the costs of running and maintaining developments. The vast majority of these costs are passed on at the same price they cost us to procure, without any mark-up. Homeowners receive detailed annual budgets and audited accounts explaining these costs.
We recognise your concerns regarding the continued liability for charges after a resident moves out or passes away, and we understand why this can feel difficult for families. We strive to ensure that prospective purchasers are provided with information about ongoing service charge obligations before they make a purchase decision, and we continually review how we communicate this information.
As your review raises a number of development-specific and resale-related concerns, we would welcome the opportunity to review these directly. If there are outstanding issues that you feel have not been addressed, please contact our Customer Relations team at CustomerRelations@mccarthyandstone.co.uk, who will be happy to assist further.
Kind regards,
The McCarthy and Stone Team
Move to Springs Court
The help and knowledge given to me by the sales consultant Louise Mckerchar was invauable as I have never bought a leasehold property before. The whole experience including the removal service was a pleasureable experience
I've returned to my roots and am enjoying life at Springs Court.
1 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Hello Ann,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience of moving to Springs Court.
We are delighted that Louise's knowledge and support helped make your first leasehold purchase such a positive experience, and that the removal service helped ensure a smooth transition.
We will be sure to share your kind comments with Louise. It's lovely to hear that you are enjoying life at Springs Court and have settled in so well.
Thank you again for your feedback.
The McCarthy Stone Team
Kings Scholars Court, Macclesfield…
I had an excellent overnight stay last night in the Guest Suite at Kings Scholars Court, Macclesfield.
The suite was large and very well appointed, with a nice big sofa for relaxing and reading or watching TV, good quality comfortable beds, mini-fridge with milk and water, tea and coffee and snacks. Robes and slippers provided! The lovely, well-lit bathroom featured good toiletries and a walk-in shower. I had really good night's sleep in a safe, secure and luxurious environment. All credit and thanks to Julie, the House Manager.
6 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Hello Maureen,
Thank you for taking the time to share such a wonderful review.
We're delighted to hear that you had an excellent stay in the Guest Suite at Kings Scholars Court, a McCarthy & Stone development. It's fantastic to know that you found the accommodation spacious, comfortable, and well equipped, with all those extra touches helping to make your visit feel both relaxing and luxurious.
Providing welcoming, high-quality guest accommodation for family and friends is something we take great pride in, so it's wonderful to hear that the suite exceeded your expectations.
Your kind comments about Julie are particularly appreciated. Our House Managers play a vital role in ensuring guests and residents receive the very best experience, and Julie will be delighted to know that her efforts contributed to such an enjoyable visit.
Thank you again for your lovely feedback. We will be sure to pass your comments on to Julie and the team at Kings Scholars Court. We hope to welcome you back again soon.
The McCarthy Stone Team
Great Staff
I have been arranging for a family member to rent a property At Mcarthy Stone and Joanne Jamison has been helping me. She has been extremely helpful with all the paperwork needed. She had gone above and beyond. I hope all the staff are the same going forward
5 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Hello Sue
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience.
We're delighted to hear that Joanne Jamison has been able to support you whilst arranging accommodation for your family member. Moving home and completing the necessary paperwork can sometimes feel overwhelming, so it's wonderful to know that Joanne's help, guidance, and commitment made the process easier for you.
We're thrilled that Joanne's dedication and professionalism have left such a positive impression. We will be sure to share your kind feedback with her, as recognition like this means a great deal to our colleagues.
Thank you again for your lovely comments and for placing your trust in us. We wish your family member every happiness in their new home and look forward to continuing to provide the same high level of service throughout their journey with us.
The McCarthy Stone Team
Braidburn Court
My mum lives at Braidburn Court in Edinburgh and I just wanted to say a word about Imelda, the House Manager.
Imelda has been in post for a while now, and she has made a HUGE difference to the atmosphere of the place. Residents are mixing more easily, and arranging many more joint activities.
I cannot overstate my gratitude to Imelda for everything she has done!
7 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about Braidburn Court, a McCarthy & Stone Development in Edinburgh.
We're absolutely delighted to hear about the positive difference Imelda has made since joining the community. Creating a warm, welcoming environment where residents can connect, build friendships, and enjoy activities together is such an important part of life in our developments, and it's wonderful to know that this is being felt so strongly by both residents and their families.
Your comments about the atmosphere at Braidburn Court and the increase in social activities are a real testament to Imelda's dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to supporting the community. We know that fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment can have a hugely positive impact, and we're thrilled that you've seen such meaningful changes.
Thank you for your kind words and for recognising Imelda's hard work. We will be sure to share your feedback with her, and we're certain it will mean a great deal. It's especially rewarding to hear that your mum is benefiting from the positive community spirit that has been created.
The McCarthy Stone Team
My mum brought a property of Caroline…
My mum brought a property of Caroline Craig Cordel in Romsey glebe court Caroline made the whole process so easy nothing was too much trouble very understanding. I couldn’t recommend Mcarthy and stone enough.
25 June 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Mrs Ellis
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We are delighted to hear that Caroline Craig Cordel made the purchase process for your mum at Glebe Court, a McCarthy & Stone development in Romsey, such a positive and stress-free experience. We know that buying a property is an important milestone, and we are pleased that everything was made as smooth and straightforward as possible. We will be sure to pass your lovely feedback on to Caroline, who will be thrilled to receive it.
Thank you again for taking the time to share your review
The McCarthy & Stone team
I want everybody to know what a great…
I want everybody to know what a great guy Jon is. He is our House Manager at Holly Place in Cobham.
His atttention to detail is outstanding and all-embracing. Nothing is too much trouble for him.
Not going to go into details here but thank you Jon, you will know to what I am referring .
JR
7 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear John
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are delighted to hear about your positive experience with the House Manager Jon at Holly Place, a McCarthy & Stone development in Cobham. It is especially rewarding to know that his support and commitment have made such a meaningful difference to you. We will be sure to pass on your kind words and appreciation to Jon.
Thank you again for taking the time to share your feedback and for recognising the exceptional service he provides.
The McCarthy & Stone team
Pristine guest suite
We stayed overnight in the guest suite of Summer Manor, Burley in Wharfedale where my mum has an apartment. Lovely twin room- pristine with en-suite shower room. Tea and coffee making facilities and very comfortable beds- just like a hotel but at a fraction of the cost. A special thanks to Claire, the house manager, for her help in organising our overnight stay.
1 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Angela
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback regarding your stay at Summer Manor a McCarthy & Stone development in Burley in Wharfedale. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the guest suite and found it comfortable, spotless, and well-equipped for your overnight stay. Thank you for also recognising the House Manager Claire. We will ensure Claire sees your kind review
Thank you again for your review. We hope to welcome you back to Summer Manor on your next visit to your mum.
The McCarthy & Stone team
The Hailes at Haddington is wonderful
The Hailes at Haddington is wonderful. My parents love living there. Great facilities, everything they need. Fabulous manager (Sarah) who goes above and beyond. As a visitor I love the Guest Suite, makes visiting my parents easy, clean and beautifully presented with everything you need (and some extra treats!).
6 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Trisha
Thank you for taking the time to share such a lovely review of The Hailes a McCarthy & Stone development in Haddington. We are delighted to hear that your parents are so happy in their home and enjoying the facilities and community. It is especially heartwarming to know that the House Manager Sarah has made such a positive difference to their experience, we will be sure to pass on your kind words. We are also pleased that you enjoy staying in our Guest Suite when visiting. It is great to hear that you found it clean, comfortable and well-equipped, with those extra touches helping to make your visits even more special.
Thank you again for sharing your feedback.
The McCarthy & Stone team
Cheese and wine evening
We would like to thank Jackie our manager for the cheese and wine 🍷 evening she organised last night.
Thank you from everyone who attended we had a lovely evening
Catherine Place Melton Mowbray
5 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear John
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are delighted to hear that everyone enjoyed the cheese and wine evening organised by your House Manager Jackie, at Catherine Place, a McCarthy & Stone development in Melton Mowbray. Creating opportunities for residents to come together and enjoy social events is something we truly value, and it is lovely to know the evening was such a success. We will be sure to pass your kind thanks on to Jackie.
Thank you again for sharing your feedback.
The McCarthy & Stone team
Horizons Poole McCarthy & Stone is a…
Horizons Poole McCarthy & Stone is a wonderful place to spend your retirement years.
Staff are friendly, kind & informed.
The building is modern, clean & welcoming.
The restaurant meals are delicious, fantastic value, staff serve you at the table … important in later life … you have your independence but staff are to hand when needed or you have a question or three …. There is a lovely community feel, you can be involved or do your own thing.
A lovely place to live.
5 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Good afternoon
Thank you for your review. We are delighted to hear that you feel Horizons a McCarthy & Stone development in Poole is such a welcoming and enjoyable place to live. It is lovely to know that the team’s friendly, kind and informed support, the modern and clean surroundings, and the restaurant meals have all helped create such a positive experience. We are especially pleased that you value the balance of independence, support when needed, and the strong sense of community. We will be sure to share your feedback with the team.
Thank you again for your review
The McCarthy & Stone team
Excellent stay in the guest room at The Oaks, Alsager
As a regular visitor, I always enjoy staying in the guest room at McCarthy Stone's The Oaks in Alsager. The room is consistently spotlessly clean, comfortable, and well maintained, with modern facilities that provide everything needed for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. The room is always presented to a high standard.
The House Manager is welcoming, friendly, and extremely helpful, making every visit a pleasure. The whole development is beautifully maintained.
5 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Jane
Thank you for your lovely review of The Oaks, a McCarthy & Stone development in Alsager. We are delighted to hear that you consistently enjoy your stays in the guest suite and that you find it clean, comfortable, and maintained to such a high standard. We are also grateful for your kind words about the House Manager, we will ensure they see your review.
Thank you again for sharing your review.
The McCarthy & Stone team
22 flats empty in my mothers block
22 flats empty in my mothers block and no sales apart from 2 because they overlook the sea. The others have been for sale for up to 4 years. Some reviews on here are also procured via over zealous staff members overseeing residents writing reviews. This should stop. MCS also wrongly published on their resales site that there was a waiting list for resales in the block - it took one year to get this misinformation taken down from their site
5 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Georgina
Thank you for taking the time to leave this review and share your feedback. We are sorry to read about your experience and understand how frustrating this situation must be for you and your family. We take all comments seriously and are concerned to hear your concerns regarding property sales, information published on our resale website, and the review process. We strive to ensure that all information we provide is accurate and transparent, and we are sorry if this has not been your experience. We would welcome the opportunity to investigate the issues you have raised and discuss them further with you. As we are unable to identify the development from your review, please contact our Customer Relations Team directly at customerRelations@mccarthyandstone.co.uk and let us know which development you refer to. This will allow us to investigate your concerns thoroughly and work towards a resolution.
Thank you again for bringing this matter to our attention.
We value all feedback as it helps us to improve our services and support our residents and their families.
The McCarthy & Stone team
What an amazing team!
We have nothing but praise for Sharna and the care team at Devonshire Place in Buxton. They go above and beyond to ensure my in-laws are safe, comfortable and happy and that their ever changing needs are catered for. They communicate with us regularly with updates and are always helpful, friendly and attentive when we visit. Thankyou
4 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Kate
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are delighted to hear that Sharna and the team at Devonshire Place a McCarthy & Stone development in Buxton have made such a positive difference to your in-laws and your family. Providing safe, comfortable and personalised care is at the heart of what we do, and it's fantastic to know that the team's dedication, communication and support are giving you peace of mind. We will be sure to share your kind words with Sharna and the wider care team, who will be thrilled to receive this recognition.
Thank you for taking the time to leave this review.
The McCarthy & Stone team
A lovely stay in Chorley
I stayed in the guest suite at Haworth Court while visiting my aunt and was really impressed. The room was spotless, very comfortable and had everything I needed. It felt so welcoming and well looked after, and the amenities were great too. It made visiting my aunt so easy and enjoyable, and I’d definitely be happy to stay again.
11 July 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Olivia
Thank you for your lovely review. We are delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience staying in the guest suite at Haworth Court a McCarthy & Stone development in Chorley while visiting your aunt. It is lovely to know that you found the accommodation spotless, comfortable and well-equipped, and that the amenities helped make your stay both easy and enjoyable. We understand how important it is for family and friends to be able to spend quality time with their loved ones, so we are pleased that the guest suite provided a welcoming and convenient place to stay. Your kind words will be shared with the team, who work hard to ensure both residents and their visitors feel at home.
Thank you for taking the time to leave this review.
The McCarthy & Stone team
Delivered training and the staff that…
Delivered training at penny House but also staff from other complexes attended and the staff that attended were very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful,
4 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Marie
Thank you for your review. To enable us to share your kind words could you please refer to which development you attended.
Kind Regards
The McCarthy & Stone team
Caring community in lovely town
Very good position in centre of town and convenient for shops, surgery and all facilities.
We have an exceptional House Manager who is the heart of our little community.
She combines efficiency with caring support and availability.
Unfortunately communication on repairs and building maintenance is often lacking and we suffered for years with a leaking roof.
After 7 years some communal areas look uncared for.
At present we have a great many empty flats and I feel McCarthy Stone could make more effort to promote resales and give reassurance that buyers will not be subject to large maintenance increases which seems to deter some prospective buyers.
4 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Ann
Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed feedback. We are delighted to hear that you value the central location of the development and the convenience it offers, as well as the support provided by your House Manager. It is especially pleasing to know that their dedication, care and professionalism have made such a positive difference to the community. We also appreciate your honest comments regarding communication around repairs, building maintenance and the appearance of some communal areas. We understand how frustrating the issues with the leaking roof must have been, and we're sorry that our communication did not meet your expectations during that time. Your feedback highlights areas where we need to do better, and we will ensure your comments are shared with the relevant teams for review.
We recognise the importance of maintaining a welcoming environment and of supporting residents through a strong resale market. We understand your concerns regarding the number of empty apartments and the potential impact that service charge increases may have on prospective buyers. If you can advise which development, you refer to we will investigate these matters for you. Feedback such as yours is invaluable in helping us understand the concerns of both current and future homeowners.
We appreciate you taking the time to share both the positives and the areas where you feel improvements can be made.
The McCarthy & Stone team
Living at Scott Place.…
It has been 7 years since I moved into the newly built Scott Place in Lichfield. The complex of 44 one and two bedroom apartments is attractive, well maintained and is ideally located being just a few minutes walk into the city centre, the Cathedral and the scenic Stowe Pool.It has a good, close community spirit and several events are organised throughout the year by the Social committee for all to enjoy.
12 months ago, a new House manager, Aideen, was appointed. Aideen settled in quickly and effectively in her new role.She has a friendly, approachable disposition and shown to be a caring and supportive Manager tackling any problems with energy and efficiency.
In summary, Scott Place is a sound choice to enjoy your well earned retirement years
3 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Stanley
Thank you for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review of your experience at Scott Place, a McCarthy & Stone development in Lichfield. We are delighted to hear that, seven years on from moving in, you continue to enjoy everything that Scott Place has to offer. Its convenient location, attractive surroundings, and strong sense of community are qualities we are very proud of. We are especially pleased to hear your kind words about the House Manager Aideen. We will be sure to pass on your lovely feedback to her.
Thank you again for your review
The McCarthy & Stone team
Theresa
Theresa, the concierge, is wonderful. She is always willing to help and so nice with all the tenants.
Thank Theresa
14 July 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Matthew
Thank you for your kind words regarding your House Manager Theresa. Theresa is an integral part of Turner House a McCarthy & Stone development in Midhurst, and we will ensure she sees your lovely review.
Kind Regards
The McCarthy & Stone team
I have lived in the Hanna Court…
I have lived in the Hanna Court development for 18 months and have found the experience very satisfactory.The apartment and facilities in the building are excellent.I found the communal living a little difficult initially but settled down after a few months.Mel,the manager has been brilliant,dealing with problems promptly and with good humour,even with some of the
more awkward owners( a small minority thankfully).
3 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from McCarthy & Stone
Dear Allen
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed living at Hanna Court a McCarthy & Stone development in Wilmslow over the past 18 months and that you are pleased with both your apartment and the facilities within the development. We appreciate your honest feedback about adapting to communal living and are pleased that you settled in and made Hanna Court your home. It is lovely to hear your kind words about the House Manager Mel. We will be sure to pass your lovely comments on.
Thanks again for your review
The McCarthy & Stone team
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