Nurseries in Lewes
Lewes is a historic market town surrounded by the South Downs, offering a mix of traditional residential neighbourhoods, scenic countryside and strong community connections. Covering postcode districts BN7 and parts of BN8, it includes Lewes Town, Southover, Malling, Ringmer and nearby villages. Families benefit from rail links to Brighton, London Victoria and London Bridge, along with access to the A27 and A26. The area offers independent shops, cafés, parks, riverside walks, playgrounds and National Park landscapes. With popular schools and a growing family population, nursery and preschool demand is steady, particularly in central Lewes and surrounding villages such as Ringmer.
Parents in Lewes typically pay £76 per day for childcare, which is slightly 1% higher than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £76
- Comparison
- +1% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 319 places
Nurseries near you in Lewes
Frequently Asked Questions
In Lewes, private nurseries usually accept children from around 3 months old, while school or council nurseries typically offer places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education begins the term after a child turns 3, with earlier eligibility possible for some 2 year olds depending on circumstances.
All 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to 15 funded hours per week, with many working families eligible for up to 30 hours. Some 2 year olds may also qualify, and eligible working parents of children from 9 months old can receive funded childcare. Tax Free Childcare can further reduce costs with a government top up.
Nursery fees in Lewes typically range from £65–£125 per day, with higher rates in central Lewes and popular village settings.
All nurseries in Lewes are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding overseen by East Sussex County Council.
Ask about outdoor areas, access to the South Downs for nature-based learning, how funded hours are delivered and any additional charges for meals or extended care.
Applying for funding
Lewes is covered by East Sussex County Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the East Sussex County Council website
