A Week in Spain with the Lynwood Explorer

15th July, 2026
Smiling resident holding a colourful fan at Lynwood Explorer

The Lynwood Explorer officially left port, and our first stop has been an incredible week exploring the sights, sounds and culture of Spain.

From colourful art inspired by Antoni Gaudí to Flamenco dancing and ‘A taste of Spain’ with a variety of Tapas dishes, our wonderful residents have been embracing everything Spain has to offer. It has been lovely to see everyone getting involved, learning something new and sharing plenty of lovely moments with each other throughout the week.

Here’s a look back at some of our favourite moments from our first destination.

Art Inspired by Antoni Gaudí 🎨

One of the highlights of the week was learning about the life and work of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí, whose colourful mosaics and unique designs inspired our very own art session.

After learning a little more about Gaudí’s life and art style, we set to create beautiful mosaic-inspired artwork with mosaics and painting sessions available. It was wonderful to see everyone putting their own individual touch on their designs while learning about one of Spain’s most famous artists.

Lynwood Explorer residents enjoy creative crafts in Spain

Learning a Little Español 🗣️

We know that every traveller needs to know a few local phrases, so before exploring Spain further, we embraced the Spanish language by hosting our very own language lesson, where our wonderful residents had the opportunity to learn some everyday Spanish words and greetings.

Picking up a few simple phrases is a fun way to experience another culture while also supporting cognitive stimulation, encouraging conversation and giving everyone the confidence to try something new.

Traditional Fan Making 🪭

No visit to Spain would be complete without embracing one of the country’s most recognisable traditions, so our residents enjoyed creating their very own Spanish-inspired fans.

With plenty of colourful pens, feathers, glitter and decorations to choose from, each fan quickly became as unique as the person making it. From bright, bold designs to more delicate patterns, there was no shortage of creativity around the table.

It was wonderful to see our lovely residents proudly showing off their finished creations. One thing’s for sure… when it comes to arts and crafts at Lynwood Care Centre, there’s no such thing as too many feathers or too much glitter!

Residents enjoying creative fan making and parties in Spain

Time for Flamenco! 💃

To round off our week in Spain, we welcomed a live Flamenco dancer to The Pantry, bringing the passion, music and energy of one of Spain’s most iconic traditions straight to our residents.

Everyone gathered together in a circle to enjoy the performance, creating a lovely atmosphere as they watched the graceful routines unfold. Before long, our residents were joining in too, learning some of the traditional hand movements and following along with the rhythm of the music, making it the perfect way to celebrate the final stop on our Spanish adventure.

Here are just a few of the moments captured from the live performance:

Lively entertainment in Spain as residents enjoy dancing and music

Next Stop… Italy! 🟢⚪🔴

With Spain now behind us, the Lynwood Explorer has set sail once again and this week, we have officially arrived in Italy. Our wonderful residents have another exciting week ahead, filled with Italian-inspired activities, delicious food and plenty of opportunities to discover more about another beautiful part of the world.

Testimonials

My late wife stayed in the Acton Care Home from the end of April 2018 until 21 September 2018 on which day she died there. In that time my wife was looked after in an excellent manner. All the nurses who cared for my wife were excellent, very professional and also very warm and friendly. My wife’s dignity was totally respected. I cannot thank enough all the staff at Acton Care Home. They deserve a 5-star recommendation.

Dennis S

(Husband of Resident)

Acton Care Centre

My Uncle received excellent care at Alan Morkill House. The staff were always helpful and friendly and he was made to feel happy, secure and comfortable as he spent the last two years of his life there. I would recommend the home to friends and family.

Christine B

(Niece of Resident)

Alan Morkill House

This placement proved a successful one giving my friend the best quality of life. The environment is peaceful and caring. I was most impressed by the kindness and professional skills of the staff in the home. Always going the extra mile.

Kathie M (Friend of a Gold Care Home Resident)

Autumn Vale Care Centre

Since my mum-in-law moved into Baugh House in April they have been nothing but fantastic. She has settled so well. The home itself is spotlessly clean and the staff go over and above to make residents feel at home. And I mean everyone domestic staff, care staff and admin. Ten out of ten to you all.  Can’t thank you all enough for all you do.

Georgina C

(Daughter-in-law of Resident)

Baugh House Care Centre

It’s hard to describe the happiness you feel in this building. The staff really care. I called Dad the other day and could hear music, when I asked him what it was he laughed and said they sing and dance, it makes us laugh. Sums it up really. If you want a home that goes the extra mile in every area then I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Bletchley House. Improvements have been made to the home and continue to be ongoing. The last 6 months have seen many positive changes. Thanks for all you do.

Barry C

(Son of Resident)

Bletchley House

Dad has settled in well. He is very complimentary of the care he receives and says he feels safe and comfortable. I have great peace of mind and am confident he is being cared for. He loves the activities and the company of the other residents.

Lucy S

(Daughter of Gold Care Home Resident)

Brackenbridge House

I visit my Aunt on average three to four times a year and I always notify the staff at Burrows House of my forthcoming visit. Each time I visit I am constantly impressed by the care and kindness towards my Aunt by the staff, all staff. Her physical care is excellent. She is well presented. She is treated with dignity. The staff understand her needs and appear to know her well. Her room is cosy and clean.

Claire R

(Niece of Resident)

Burrows house

Staff have been very supportive to Mum, who has struggled to settle in. Mum has now made new friends and her health and wellbeing have greatly improved. The facilities are fantastic and Mum reports the food is lovely. The staff communicates well and always keeps me informed and updated.
Would highly recommend the home.

Rosalie T

(Daughter of a Gold Care Home Resident)

Drayton Village Care Centre

I would like to say that the personal care provided by the staff who looked after mum on a day to day and long term basis was excellent.

Paul F

(Son of Resident)

Halcyon Days

The staff are friendly and caring. They listen and are very welcoming and attentive.
They looked after my friend well and could not have done any better.

Kylie A

(Friend of Resident)

Hillside Nursing Home

We cannot speak highly enough about Kent House. The staff are excellent, much of the reason for this is the example set by the managers, they are excellent. We are very grateful for the kindness and care they show to all of the residents, it’s a joy to see.

Christine K

(Daughter of Resident)

Kent House

When we visit my aunt she is contented and is well looked after and well cared for. We are very grateful for the way the home gave her such a happy day for her 101st birthday. Staff were very kind to her.

John W

(Son of Resident)

Manor House

The care the staff at Martin’s House give my dad is outstanding. The staff have been exemplary through the COVID crisis and have steadfastly given an excellent level of care during the most difficult of circumstances. Their professionalism and excellent people skills have helped clients and families alike, up to and during the COVID crisis. The staff have all taken the time to get to know me as well as my father. I am so grateful for everything they do for him. My dad is so happy with the care he receives, he is treated with respect and dignity.

Jane S

(Daughter of Resident)

Martins House

The team at Peregrine House are caring and responsive. In this difficult time, they have been meticulous in protecting the residents, keeping them safe and keeping daily life as normal as possible. This is remarkable, given the challenges – every single member of staff has clearly worked tirelessly to maintain safety and wellbeing.

Eleanor K

(Daughter of Resident)

Peregrine House

We are both very happy with the care she gets. Pre covid, I would visit every day, and I have always enjoyed the staff’s company and pleasant manner. I really do appreciate the care the staff give to my wife.

Brian S

Queensway House

We got in touch with St Katherine’s for respite care for Mum when she was extremely unwell with dehydration. They were extremely compassionate and helpful to us when we were in a situation that we were finding difficult to deal with. Every one of the staff has been so kind and caring toward Mum and ourselves. We could not fault the care she is receiving and she is very happy there.

Janis G

(Daughter of Resident)

St Katherine’s Care Home

I can’t say how fantastic the team are at The Tudors in looking after their residents. They are brilliant, always caring, always have time to discuss your relative’s needs with you, and it is clear how much they care about the people they are looking after. Mum is happy and safe; what more can you ask for.

Karen W

(Daughter of Resident)

The Tudors Care Home

Extremely helpful, very friendly, cannot fault the staff. Cleanliness is excellent.

Gillian S

(Wife of Resident)

Willowmead Care Home

Very pleased with Mom’s care. Staff are excellent and provide a first-class service. The home is well managed and maintained., always clean and friendly. We now know Mom is being well cared for and the staff knows exactly how to deal with her needs. Cannot fault St Stephens.

S R

(Daughter of Resident)

St Stephens Care Home

Very welcoming, all staff and management embrace you an make you feel at ease and are very caring to all. As a visitor, they are so friendly and will do anything to help.

Janet W

(Wife of Resident)

Lucton House

Award winning care

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