Nurseries in Dover
Dover is a coastal Kent district known for its port, historic landmarks and family-friendly seaside communities. Covering postcode districts CT15–CT17, it includes Dover Town, Deal, Walmer, St Margaret’s-at-Cliffe and surrounding villages. Families benefit from train links to London via HS1 from nearby Folkestone, as well as the A20 and A2 for road travel. The area offers beaches, coastal paths, nature reserves, playgrounds and cultural sites such as Dover Castle and the White Cliffs. Childcare demand is steady across the district, particularly in Deal and Walmer where many families relocate for lifestyle and affordability.
Parents in Dover typically pay £75 per day for childcare, which is slightly 1% lower than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £75
- Comparison
- -1% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 854 places
Nurseries near you in Dover
Frequently Asked Questions
In Dover, private nurseries typically accept children from around 3 months old depending on staffing levels and space. School and council nurseries generally offer places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education begins the term after a child turns 3, with earlier eligibility for some 2-year-olds or working parents.
Children aged 3 and 4 in England can access 15 funded hours per week during term time, with many working families eligible for 30 hours. Some 2-year-olds may qualify based on household income, and eligible working parents with children from 9 months old can access funded hours. Families can also reduce nursery costs using Tax-Free Childcare.
Nursery fees in Dover typically range from £55–£100 per day, with Deal and Walmer often slightly higher due to demand and proximity to the coast.
All nurseries in Dover are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding overseen by Kent County Council.
Ask about outdoor space, coastal outings, staff retention, funded hours availability and any extra fees for meals or consumables. It may also be helpful to ask how nurseries support transitions to local primary schools.
Applying for funding
Dover 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
