Sonning Gardens Care Home – Old Bath Road, Sonning, Reading, Berkshire, RG4 6TQ

My physically and mentally frail 90 year old Mum moved into Sonning Gardens in May 2026 for two weeks’ respite, with a view to staying on as a permanent resident – an approach Tracey (the CRM) recommended. After 10 days I was informed (via obtusely worded emails from Tracey) that Mum would not be allowed to stay as a permanent resident, and that we should find a different care home for her. Face-to-face, Tracey told me that staff had complained about Mum, but she wouldn’t share any details with me. She also told me that even on the Dementia Wing, no-one ever swore or was violent – “…not here”. After speaking to some carers, I know the latter is not true. The day I moved Mum out, I said to Tracey “we never did get to the bottom of those complaints did we?” Her reply was “I just do what I’m told, Bill.” On more than one occasion I had first-hand experience of unacceptably long response times for call buttons, and over the 3½ weeks Mum was there I learnt from several residents that overly-long response times were a regular problem. They certainly were for Mum. The garden here is amazing. The rooms are 5 star. The food is top quality, and some of the carers are lovely. But I do not believe there is a culture of care at Sonning Gardens – from both the General Manager and Deputy refusing to meet with me, to the CRM telling me (at best) half-truths, to what appears to be not enough carers to cover the needs of immobile residents. I would summarise the culture here as “it’s our way or the highway”. I’m not writing this out of bitterness: Mum’s expulsion was a blessing – she hated it here but is fairly happy in her new care home. I’m writing as a warning to anyone who puts an immobile loved-one here. All that glitters is not gold.

Bill Unsworth published on 1 July 2026

My lovely mum has lived at this nursing home since September 2020. When she arrived at the home her left leg was completely ulcerated from her knee down and was extremely painful. We had been told that this would never get better however thanks to the amazing care provided by Sonning Gardens her leg had fully recovered within 3 months and Mum is continuing to thrive. All of the staff are very kind, caring and helpful. Nothing is ever too much trouble. I must give particular mention to Teresa Hawkins who personally oversees mum’s care. Teresa keeps me constantly updated with mum’s progress. We couldn’t wish for anything more. The home itself is extremely comfortable and spacious with wonderful gardens. The food is delicious and there is always plenty of choice. I would highly recommend.

Paula Bacon published on 10 August 2023

During my mothers stay there the staff were all so kind, understanding, attentive and gentle. Genuinely friendly and made her feel very welcome. The food was exceptional with incredible choice. Lovely that both my mother and her guests could get a variety of drinks and delicious cakes. The place is in a beautiful setting and the grounds were very well maintained. The medical team inspired confidence. Overall nothing was too much trouble. We would highly recommend this lovely home.

Paul Sinden published on 7 January 2023

I have nothing but good to say about my Mother's recent respite stay. She is currently receiving cancer treatment and is on lots of complex medicines and pain relief which they organised efficiently for her and even provided a packed lunch on Chemo days. She thoroughly enjoyed her stay with you all and couldn't speak highly enough about the care she received. Everyone addressed her by name and the entire Team were nothing but attentive and caring. This was her first time being away from her home and you have given her the confidence in knowing that home from home environments such as yours are nothing to fear. She really enjoyed participating in the wonderful activity programme (not something she would normally get involved in but surprisingly enjoyed. It's such a shame that this is not offered on a book and drop basis for returning guests. She also really enjoyed the food and sometimes felt she couldn't do it justice! From meeting Sarah on our 1st. visit to her final day - our experience has been nothing but exemplary and we would recommend you to anyone. Thank you all.

Sue Wilkins published on 26 May 2025

Not recommended if care required. My mother in law lasted 4 days in Sonning Gardens (end of March 2025) as it soon became clear that there are insufficient staff to look after the patients. A member of the nursing team even told my husband that albeit she could not publicly criticise the place he could see the number of patients as opposed to staff and make his own mind up. Waited over 1 hour for an emergency call button to be answered and was only answered when we called reception to ask them to call the floor to assist. Sadly, if you have nursing needs, this is not the place to go. We swiftly removed my mother in law and she is now settled elsewhere. We have tried to communicate with the home but unanswered emails.

Rose King published on 12 May 2025