Nurseries in Lancaster
Lancaster is a historic city with a growing family population, strong university presence and excellent access to Morecambe Bay and the Lune Valley. Covering LA1–LA2, it includes Bowerham, Skerton, Hala and city-centre areas. Families benefit from parks, museums, cultural venues, the University of Lancaster campus and strong cycle routes. Nursery demand is high in both student and commuter areas.
Parents in Lancaster typically pay £69 per day for childcare, which is slightly 8% lower than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £69
- Comparison
- -8% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 2,328 places
Nurseries near you in Lancaster
Frequently Asked Questions
In Lancaster, private nurseries usually accept children from around 3 months old. School-based and council nurseries typically offer places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education begins the term after age 3, with earlier access for eligible 2 year olds.
Across England all 3 and 4 year olds receive 15 funded hours per week, with many working families eligible for up to 30 hours. Some 2 year olds also qualify based on household circumstances, and eligible working parents of children from 9 months old may access funded childcare. Tax-Free Childcare provides a 20 percent government top-up to help with nursery costs.
Nursery fees in Lancaster typically range from £50–£95 per day, with some higher-end settings around the university and commuter areas.
All nurseries in Lancaster are regulated by Ofsted, with funding overseen by Lancashire County Council.
Ask about outdoor access, staff qualifications, support for early learning, funded hours arrangements, and any extra charges for meals or extended care.
Applying for funding
Lancaster is covered by Lancashire County Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Lancashire County Council website
