- Caring for your loved ones starts here
The story behind our Clitheroe care home
High Brake House is a true family affair. Mark and Hannah bought this care home in 2003 with their parents, completely new to the care industry. Mark’s vision, his wife Liz’s interior design flair, and Hannah’s attention to detail have created something special over the years.
“We’re immensely proud of what we’ve created. Its fabric, and the fantastic staff that work so hard with us to make High Brake House a home.”
Hannah & Mark
We’re immensely proud of what we’ve created. Its fabric, and the fantastic staff that work so hard with us to make High Brake House a home.”
We’re immensely proud of what we’ve created. Its fabric, and the fantastic staff that work so hard with us to make High Brake House a home.”
Taking the leap into care
Creating something special, one extension at a time
Our first major task as new owner-managers was some serious DIY. It was all hands on deck as we built the first of what would become four extensions over the years. We had a clear vision – to create a place where people would truly feel at home and enjoy generous living spaces with ensuite wetrooms.
Each extension was carefully planned and built with residents’ needs in mind. We weren’t just adding rooms – we were creating comfortable, homely spaces that would make people feel welcome and valued. Mark’s fantastic vision for the layout, his wife Liz’s interior design skills, and Hannah’s eye for detail combined to create something truly special.
The last structural addition was completed in 2017, marking the end of over a decade of gradual improvements and expansions. Every addition was designed by people who understand care, not just architects drawing plans. We created cosy lounges, beautiful bedrooms, accessible facilities, and peaceful garden areas – all with the comfort and dignity of our residents at heart.
Personal milestones celebrated together
As High Brake House has grown and evolved, so have our families – and our residents have been part of every milestone. Hannah got married and was waved off from High Brake House by all our residents, who gathered at the front door to send her off with love and best wishes.
In 2013, residents had the joy of welcoming Hannah’s new baby girl, and later, they celebrated when Mark married Liz and their two beautiful boys joined the extended High Brake family. Our residents absolutely love seeing the children when they drop in – there’s always excitement and smiles when the little ones visit.
What started as a business venture has become something much more meaningful. Our residents, staff, and families have created a genuine community where everyone looks out for each other. Birthdays are celebrated, achievements are shared, and support is given during difficult times.
Personal milestones celebrated together
The advantages of staying family-run
When you call High Brake House, you’re likely to speak directly to Mark, Hannah, or Liz. We don’t have layers of corporate management or lengthy approval processes. If something needs to be done or a decision needs to be made, we can act immediately.
Large care home chains often shuffle management teams between facilities. We’ve been here for over 20 years and still love what we do. Residents and families know they can count on us for consistent, reliable care and genuine relationships.
We’re part of the Clitheroe community – not a distant corporate entity. We know local healthcare providers, support local charities, and maintain relationships that benefit our residents. When you need a GP, district nurse, or specialist service, we know who to call.
Corporate care homes focus on systems, procedures, and profit margins. We focus on people. Every resident has a story, personality, and individual needs that deserve attention and respect. We have the time and inclination to provide that personal touch.
More than just business success
Our greatest achievement isn’t financial – it’s the trust that families place in us, often for many years. We have cared for both parents, helping to keep married couples together. We’ve maintained friendships with families long after their loved ones have passed away.
We’re incredibly proud that so many of our team members have chosen to build their careers with us. Watching care assistants develop into senior roles, supporting staff through personal milestones, and maintaining a team that genuinely enjoys working together – these are the achievements that matter most to us.
Over the years, we’ve built a reputation in Clitheroe and the wider Ribble Valley as a care home that families can trust. Word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied families remain our best form of advertising.
We’ve celebrated countless birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions. We’ve supported families through difficult times and shared in their joyful moments. We’ve helped people create new friendships and maintain important relationships.
The next chapter of our story
After more than 20 years, our commitment remains the same – to provide exceptional care in a genuine family environment. We’re not interested in expanding into multiple sites or becoming a corporate chain. Our focus is on continuing to perfect what we do at High Brake House.
While our core values remain unchanged, we continuously improve our facilities, update our training, and adapt to changing needs. We recently invested in award-winning care management software and continue to enhance our facilities and services.
As our own children grow up around High Brake House, they’re learning the values of caring for others and treating everyone with dignity and respect. The spirit of High Brake House will continue for generations to come.
Every new resident who joins us becomes part of our extended family. Every new staff member who shares our values strengthens our team. Our story continues to grow with every person who becomes part of the High Brake House community.
Common questions about residential care
No, every resident has their own private ensuite bedroom. You can personalise it with your own furniture and belongings to make it feel like home.
Whilst we generally can’t accommodate resident pets, family pets are very welcome to visit. We’re a pet-friendly home and residents love seeing visiting dogs. Depending on the type of pet, we may be able to accommodate some smaller pets such as birds – please discuss this with us during your assessment.
If you’re able to go out safely on your own, you’re free to do so. Many residents enjoy walks around Clitheroe, shopping trips, or visiting family. We just ask that you let staff know when you’re going out.
Family and friends can visit anytime between 8am-10pm. For visits outside these hours, just give us a call first. We have comfortable family areas and can provide refreshments for your guests.
All residents need to register with Sabden and Whalley Surgery, which provides excellent care to our residents. If you’re currently with a different GP, we’ll help you with the registration process.
Creating something special, one extension at a time
Our first major task as new owner-managers was some serious DIY. It was all hands on deck as we built the first of what would become four extensions over the years. We had a clear vision – to create a place where people would truly feel at home and enjoy generous living spaces with ensuite wetrooms.
Each extension was carefully planned and built with residents’ needs in mind. We weren’t just adding rooms – we were creating comfortable, homely spaces that would make people feel welcome and valued. Mark’s fantastic vision for the layout, his wife Liz’s interior design skills, and Hannah’s eye for detail combined to create something truly special.
The last structural addition was completed in 2017, marking the end of over a decade of gradual improvements and expansions. Every addition was designed by people who understand care, not just architects drawing plans. We created cosy lounges, beautiful bedrooms, accessible facilities, and peaceful garden areas – all with the comfort and dignity of our residents at heart.
Personal milestones celebrated together
As High Brake House has grown and evolved, so have our families – and our residents have been part of every milestone. Hannah got married and was waved off from High Brake House by all our residents, who gathered at the front door to send her off with love and best wishes.
In 2013, residents had the joy of welcoming Hannah’s new baby girl, and later, they celebrated when Mark married Liz and their two beautiful boys joined the extended High Brake family. Our residents absolutely love seeing the children when they drop in – there’s always excitement and smiles when the little ones visit.
What started as a business venture has become something much more meaningful. Our residents, staff, and families have created a genuine community where everyone looks out for each other. Birthdays are celebrated, achievements are shared, and support is given during difficult times.
Our values and mission
We know every resident personally. We remember their preferences, their family stories, their good days and challenging days. This personal attention isn’t possible when you’re managing hundreds of residents across multiple sites – it’s only possible because we’re here, involved, and genuinely invested in each person’s wellbeing.
We’ve always believed that smaller care home facilities should feel individual and unique. That’s why we’ve preserved the character of our original building whilst adding modern comforts. That’s why we have multiple small lounges rather than one large communal area. That’s why we encourage residents to bring their own furniture and belongings.
We believe that great care starts with great people. We invest in our staff with ongoing training opportunities, and the kind of supportive environment where people can build long-term careers in care. This is transformative for the quality of care we’re able to provide. When staff feel valued and supported, that care and commitment naturally flows through to their interactions with residents.
The advantages of staying family-run
When you call High Brake House, you’re likely to speak directly to Mark, Hannah, or Liz. We don’t have layers of corporate management or lengthy approval processes. If something needs to be done or a decision needs to be made, it can be achieved quickly
We’ve been here for over 20 years and are still passionate about what we do. Residents and families know they can count on us for consistent, reliable care and genuine relationships.
We’re part of the Clitheroe community. We know local healthcare providers, support local charities, and maintain relationships that benefit our residents. When you need a GP, district nurse, or specialist service, we know who to call.
We focus on people. Every resident has a story, personality, and individual needs that deserve attention and respect. We have the time and inclination to provide that personal touch.
More than just business success
Our greatest achievement isn’t financial – it’s the trust that families place in us, often for many years. We have cared for both parents, helping to keep married couples together. We’ve maintained friendships with families long after their loved ones have passed away.
We’re incredibly proud that so many of our team members have chosen to build their careers with us. Watching care assistants develop into senior roles, supporting staff through personal milestones, and maintaining a team that genuinely enjoys working together – these are the achievements that matter most to us.
Over the years, we’ve built a reputation in Clitheroe and the wider Ribble Valley as a care home that families can trust. Word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied families remain our best form of advertising.
We’ve celebrated countless birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions. We’ve supported families through difficult times and shared in their joyful moments. We’ve helped people create new friendships and maintain important relationships.
The next chapter of our story
After more than 20 years, our commitment remains the same – to provide exceptional care in a genuine family environment. We’re not interested in expanding into multiple sites or becoming a corporate chain. Our focus is on continuing to perfect what we do at High Brake House.
While our core values remain unchanged, we continuously improve our facilities, update our training, and adapt to changing needs. We have invested since an early stage in award-winning care management software and continue to enhance our facilities and services.
As our own children grow up around High Brake House, they’re learning the values of caring for others and treating everyone with dignity and respect. The spirit of High Brake House will continue in the future.
Every new resident who joins us becomes part of our extended family. Every new staff member who shares our values strengthens our team. Our story continues to grow with every person who becomes part of the High Brake House community.
Managers, listened carefully to what I thought my needs were following a leg operation. I felt that I was treated as an individual, not just another resident. It was great to be encouraged to personalise my room. The carers helped me with my mobility. very soon, I was able to get in and out of bed on my own. The carers often made time for a general chat which helped to make me feel at home. I was greatly encouraged to increase my mobility. The carers shared my joy with each small success. The food was varied and delicious. I was glad to be able to choose small portions. The activities co-ordinator, kept me informed daily of available activities. There was a good variety of activities and he was willing to accommodate interests. I felt very safe and well-cared for throughout my 6-week stay. ALL the staff - management, carers, kitchen staff, cleaners, were very friendly. compassionate and helpful. I would certainly return there should the need arise.
Grace F My mum had been in the care home for just short of three years until she sadly passed away in January. Throughout her time in High Brake I could not fault the level of care shown by all the staff towards her. When my mum first went into the home they supported her independence, even charging up her mobility scooter to allow her to visit the local cricket club! As her balance deteriorated the level of care and support given increased proportionately so that mum was always kept safe. The staff are always friendly and cheerful, nothing is too much trouble for them. We were able to personalise her room with family photos etc. Mum became one of the 'High Brake family' and I know she was cared for and loved by all who worked there. When we were unable to visit, the home facilitated a FaceTime meet, which was gratefully appreciated. I couldn't have asked for better care and would not hesitate to recommend High Brake House.
Andrew K My husband had been at home for nearly two and half years being cared for full time by myself. He had suffered sepsis with complications of 2 strokes, leaving him registered blind with reduced mobility. As a family we took a view that both my husband and I needed that little bit of respite. Having visited other homes the idea was put on ice because we felt their environment was not suitable. In January 2025 High Brake was recommended and the Managers visited us in our home and advised us correctly for the length of respite and assessed my husband's requirements, this proved invaluable. Whilst in their care my husband wanted nothing, all the staff were a credit to the High Brake brand and could not help us enough. The family have discussed my husband's next visit, as and when this is required it will be the only home that will be considered.
Lynn S I was very happy how well my husband was looked after in High Brake House while I had surgery. Was peace of mind for me. He enjoyed the activities and had a lovely room. There was choice at meal times. The outside garden is very pleasant. Would definitely recommend.
Shirley S Mum went to High Brake House for respite after a fall. It's such a bright, clean and friendly house with a family atmosphere. The staff are so helpful and caring, resulting in mum making excellent progress and regaining both her mobility and independence. We couldn't have asked for better care.
A W
We needed rest and care which we got in abundance. The staff looked after us and helped us to settle in with the other residents. Overall we came out feeling much better.
B D My brothers and I have been very pleased with the care my mother has received at High Brake. The owners are lovely and are very involved in the care of the residents. All the staff are friendly and cheerful and want the best for the residents. The food is tasty and well received. It is very clean and well-kept. I go in 3 or 4 times a week and feel that my mother is in a safe place and is well cared for. I also feel that I always receive a warm welcome from the staff and am able to discuss my mother's care with members of the care team when I visit.
K R The staff and facilities at High Brake House are very good. There is a warm and welcoming environment as soon as you walk in and all the staff are very helpful and friendly. As it is a relatively small home, compared to some we viewed, it has a more homely atmosphere and a family feel to it. There are activities organised in which the residents can participate or they can sit quietly in the lounge or their rooms. When the weather is nice, there is a lovely little garden to sit out in. Families are encouraged to visit and can do so at almost any time. We take Mum out a couple of times a week and this is never a problem. On a couple of occasions, we have been a little late getting back and the staff have either saved Mum a meal or have arranged for her to have one made. Mum has been at High Brake House for 5 months and as a family, we are very happy with the help, support and friendship she has received. We would not hesitate to recommend High Brake House.
D J We cannot praise High Brake House highly enough. The long-term care my Mum has received over several years has been outstanding and I am always confident that she is well cared for and living in a wonderful environment. Even during some of the most challenging times with Mum, they have always been willing to work through the issues in partnership. The management team and all the staff are wonderful and, even through the challenges of Covid, were exceptional. Mum's accommodation is modern, clean, and spacious with great en-suite facilities and feels very homely. The house in general is meticulously clean and inviting. There is always a warm welcome for visitors too. I would have no hesitation in recommending High Brake to anyone.
Ian H From the very top and throughout all the staff everybody is very friendly/helpful/considerate and understanding. Nothing is too much trouble and everything is done with a smile on the face. It's a tough job but they all do it brilliantly. Thank you.
Peter I Dad has been at High Brake House for just over two years and settled in extremely well. All staff are kind and courteous, and the management team really are lovely. From the initial viewing of the home to Dad's first day everything was undertaken in a professional yet caring manner. The home is clean and inviting, rooms are a good size, the garden is a lovely sun trap, and the food is great. There are activities to join in if inclined, and there is a regular hairdresser and chiropractor. Each room has a direct dial phone so I am able to speak with Dad at any time which really is a bonus. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend High Brake House to anyone.
L P I’ve thought long and hard before writing this review because, let’s face it, nobody will ever care for your loved one as well as you would if you were able to do so. That said the management team at High Brake House will do their very best to do just that! The first time I visited it immediately felt like “home” and not “a home”. Visitors are free to come and go just as they would were the person in their own home. Rooms can be personalised with décor, bedding and small furniture, nothing was too much trouble to help Mum feel settled very quickly. All the staff are friendly and know all the residents by name. Management takes onboard suggestions and any concerns and are very hands-on in delivering care. Mum deserves the best and I made the right choice.
Lisa PCommon questions about residential care
No, every resident has their own private ensuite bedroom. You can personalise it with your own furniture and belongings to make it feel like home.
Whilst we generally can’t accommodate resident pets, family pets are very welcome to visit. We’re a pet-friendly home and residents love seeing visiting dogs. Depending on the type of pet, we may be able to accommodate some smaller pets such as birds – please discuss this with us during your assessment.
If you’re able to go out safely on your own, you’re free to do so. Many residents enjoy walks around Clitheroe, shopping trips, or visiting family. We just ask that you let staff know when you’re going out.
Family and friends can visit anytime between 10am-7pm. For visits outside these hours, just give us a call first. We have comfortable family areas and can provide refreshments for your guests.
All residents need to register with Sabden and Whalley Surgery, which provides excellent care to our residents. If you’re currently with a different GP, we’ll help you with the registration process.
My mum initially was at High Brake House for respite care. From the moment we walked in we were made to feel welcome and treated with dignity and respect which continued throughout her stay. The staff were all caring kind and professional. Each visit we were pleasantly greeted by a team member and they always were able to advise where to find mum. Staff were always available to discuss mums care and needs and were very good at contacting us to keep us updated. The management team were always available to discuss anything or answer any questions. The food was good and available in small portions. The home was always clean and tidy. They initially told us the care was individualised to the resident and they did just that.
Trudy H Daughter of Resident