Nurseries in Canterbury
Canterbury is a historic cathedral city with a large student population, strong tourism economy and highly regarded schools, making it a popular choice for families. Covering postcode districts CT1–CT4, the area includes Canterbury City Centre, St Dunstan’s, Sturry, Thanington and nearby villages such as Bridge. Families benefit from good rail connections including HS1 services to London St Pancras, as well as access to the A2 for travel across Kent. The area offers extensive green space, excellent cultural attractions, museums, playgrounds and riverside walks. Childcare demand is strong, especially in neighbourhoods close to primary schools, universities and central transport routes.
Parents in Canterbury typically pay £75 per day for childcare, which is lower than the UK average of £75 per day.
- Average Daily Cost
- £75
- Comparison
- Same as UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 4,360 places
Nurseries near you in Canterbury
Frequently Asked Questions
In Canterbury, private nurseries typically accept children from around 3 months old depending on availability. School and council nurseries usually begin places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education starts the term after a child turns 3, with earlier eligibility for some 2-year-olds or children of working parents.
Children aged 3 and 4 in England receive 15 hours of funded early education per week, and many working families can receive up to 30 hours. Some 2-year-olds are also eligible, and working parents with children from 9 months old can access funded hours. Families can also use the Tax-Free Childcare scheme to reduce costs.
Nursery fees in Canterbury generally range from £70–£125 per day, with areas near the city centre and university often being more expensive due to high demand.
All nurseries in Canterbury are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding overseen by Kent County Council.
Ask about learning approaches, outdoor space, proximity to green areas, how funded hours are structured and whether additional fees apply for meals or extra sessions.
Applying for funding
Canterbury is covered by Kent County Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Kent County Council website
