Nurseries in Leicester
Leicester is a major East Midlands city known for its cultural diversity, excellent transport links, universities, strong family communities and a wide range of early years provision. With many young families and a large working population, nursery demand is consistently high across the city.
Market insights for Leicester
Parents in Leicester typically pay £68 per day for childcare, which is slightly 10% lower than the UK average of £75 per day. This pricing reflects local market conditions, including operational costs, demand levels, and regional economic factors that influence childcare provision. With 11,029 childcare places available across Leicester, families have a range of options to consider. Understanding these market insights helps parents make informed decisions about childcare costs and availability in Leicester.
- Average daily cost
- £68
- Comparison
- -10% vs UK average
- Total capacity
- 11,029 places
Nurseries near you in Leicester
Frequently asked questions
In Leicester, most private nurseries accept children from around 3 months old, depending on availability. Government-funded early education starts the term after your child's 3rd birthday, with earlier places for some 2-year-olds or eligible working parents under national childcare schemes.
In England, all 3 and 4-year-olds are eligible for 15 hours of funded early education per week during term time, with up to 30 hours for many working families. Some 2-year-olds may also receive funding, and working parents of younger children from 9 months old can qualify for 30 hours. Eligible families can also use Tax-Free Childcare to reduce childcare costs.
Nursery fees in Leicester typically range from £55–£115 per day depending on the setting, location and services provided.
All nurseries in Leicester are regulated by Ofsted, with funding overseen by Leicester City Council.
Ask about waiting lists, outdoor play access, learning approach, funded hours, flexibility of sessions and additional fees.
Applying for funding
Leicester is covered by Leicester City Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Leicester City Council websiteThe UK's nursery search platform, built for modern parents
Find nurseries near you
Search by location, filter by age group, hours, and (Ofsted, Care Inspectorate Scotland, and Care Inspectorate Wales). Get a clearer picture before you commit to a visit.
Work out what you'll pay
Childcare costs and government funding can be confusing. Our calculator cuts through it and shows you what to expect each month.
Get guidance from childcare experts
Our advice hub walks you through every stage of the process, so you know when to start looking and exactly what to ask when you visit.