Kelvinside Manor Officially Opens with a Star-Studded Welcome

In true Meallmore fashion, the sun was shining down as Kelvinside Manor, our brand-new, state-of-the-art care home in Glasgow’s vibrant West End, officially opened its doors with a day full of joy, music and community spirit. The celebration was headlined by none other than Scotland’s favourite weather presenter, Sean Batty, whose presence brought smiles and a good dose of sunshine.

Guests joined the celebrations, including residents and their families, Meallmore colleagues, those involved in the home’s development, and members of the wider Kelvinside community. Children from Kelvinside Academy Nursery added even more charm to the occasion, dancing along to the music and enjoying a day of connection across generations.

A Star-Studded Opening

To mark the official opening, Sean Batty unveiled a commemorative plaque, symbolising a new chapter for our fully refurbished care home in Glasgow. A long-standing part of the local landscape, Kelvinside Manor has been thoughtfully transformed into a warm, luxurious and person-centred care home for up to 48 residents.

Sean took time to chat with residents and guests, pose for plenty of photos, and, of course, share a few weather-related jokes. He was warmly received by all, with residents delighted to see a familiar face from the television visiting their home.

Music, Food and a Proper Scottish Welcome

The day’s entertainment began with a moving welcome from 14-year-old bagpiper Christopher Denny, whose stirring performance captured the hearts of everyone present. Following this, harpist and singer Pauline Vallance treated the crowd to a medley of Scottish folk favourites that had toes tapping and voices humming.

Guests were also treated to a beautifully curated Scottish tapas menu created by Head Chef Maureen McCourt and our in-house catering team. Smoked salmon, pulled pork, sweet canapés, fizz and mocktails filled the courtyard as everyone shared in the spirit of celebration.

Rounding off the day was a whisky tasting experience, featuring Meallmore’s limited-edition Father’s Day blend – a thoughtful nod to the traditions we celebrate across our homes and a toast to new beginnings.

What the Residents Say

One of our first residents, 89-year-old Laura McAlonan, said:

“It was a marvellous day. My son and daughter came along, and it was a great turnout. I spent a lot of time organising charity events and I know a lot of planning went into making it special. Everyone looked like they were enjoying themselves and it was a chance for everyone to see how comfortable the home is and that we are settled here.”

For Laura and others, the event wasn’t just about fanfare – it was a chance to truly feel part of something. It was a glimpse of life at Kelvinside Manor: full of warmth, care, and connection.

A Home Built on Compassion and Excellence

Kelvinside Manor opened its doors to residents in February, quickly becoming a proud addition to the Meallmore family. The home offers 24-hour nursing care, dementia care, and short-term and respite care – all delivered with Meallmore’s signature focus on person-centred, relationship-based care.

Residents enjoy private en-suite rooms, with the option of executive suites for those looking for an extra touch of luxury. Communal spaces include a vibrant café area, landscaped courtyard garden, and a hair and beauty salon – all designed to create a true home-from-home experience.

Leading with Vision and Heart

CEO Cillian Hennessey reflected on the day and the journey so far:

“We’re very proud of what we’ve achieved here in Kelvinside. This building has always been a part of the local community and a real part of this area of Glasgow’s West End, so we’re thrilled to be able to give it a new chapter.”

He added, “We’d like to thank everyone who has played a role in the development of Kelvinside Manor; and a special thanks to Veronica and the incredible team who really make the home what it is, while providing the highest standards of personalised care. It’s great to see our first residents looking so happy and settled and enjoying all the fantastic spaces that the home has to offer.”

Home Manager Veronica Dormer echoed this sentiment:

“We had such a wonderful afternoon. It really was the perfect way to officially open our lovely new home; both the residents and our team were proud to show it off to our guests. We were blown away by the fantastic turnout and it was a joy to have Sean with us too, chatting to residents and posing for photos – especially as he was good enough to bring us the sunshine!”

Community at the Core

The opening of Kelvinside Manor is about more than a building. It’s about creating a thriving community where residents feel empowered, supported and truly at home. Events like this, full of life and laughter, help us connect not just with our residents, but with families, neighbours, and local organisations.

Meallmore has always believed in being part of the places we call home. From employing local talent to opening our doors during Care Home Open Week and beyond, we’re proud to be contributing to the community of Glasgow’s West End.

Welcome Home

With its doors now officially open and its first chapter already rich with stories, Kelvinside Manor is more than ready to welcome new residents, friends and families.

For anyone looking for a care home in Glasgow that blends clinical excellence with warmth, luxury with comfort, and individuality with community, Kelvinside Manor is a place to call home.

To learn more or arrange a visit, contact the team at Meallmore today. We’d love to welcome you in.