Nurseries in Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a major coastal city on the south coast, known for its maritime heritage, regenerated waterfront, naval community and family-friendly neighbourhoods. Covering Southsea, Fratton, Cosham, North End and Hilsea, it offers busy high streets, parks, museums, libraries and good public transport. Nursery demand is high across the city, especially in Southsea and areas close to employment hubs and transport links.
Parents in Portsmouth typically pay £62 per day for childcare, which is slightly 17% lower than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £62
- Comparison
- -17% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 8,981 places
Nurseries near you in Portsmouth
nuuri registered
130 places
Ages 1 months to 5 years
3 / 4 inspection score
2 August 2023
Frequently Asked Questions
Private nurseries in Portsmouth typically accept babies from around 3 months old. School and council-managed nurseries usually offer early education places from age 2 or 3. All children can access funded hours from the term after they turn 3.
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 qualify earlier, and eligible working parents of babies from 9 months old may also access funded childcare. Tax-Free Childcare provides a 20 percent government top-up toward nursery fees.
Nursery fees in Portsmouth usually range from £60–£125 per day, with higher rates in Southsea and modern purpose-built settings offering extended opening hours.
All nurseries in Portsmouth are inspected by Ofsted, with early years funding overseen by Portsmouth City Council.
Ask about outdoor space, curriculum, staff turnover, funding models, food charges and how the nursery supports transitions into local primary schools.
Applying for funding
Portsmouth is covered by Portsmouth City Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Portsmouth City Council website
