Nurseries in St Albans
St Albans is one of Hertfordshire’s most desirable family locations, known for its outstanding schools, historic city centre and excellent transport links. Covering postcode districts AL1, AL2, AL3 and AL4, it includes St Albans City Centre, Fleetville, Marshalswick, Chiswell Green and London Colney. Families benefit from fast rail services to London St Pancras, along with easy access to the M1, M25 and A414. The city offers parks, playgrounds, leisure centres, museums and a vibrant community atmosphere. Childcare demand is extremely high due to competitive school catchments and strong commuter appeal.
Parents in St Albans typically pay £86 per day for childcare, which is slightly 14% higher than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £86
- Comparison
- +14% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 2,671 places
Nurseries near you in St Albans
Frequently Asked Questions
In St Albans, private nurseries typically accept children from around 3 months old. School and council nurseries usually offer places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education begins the term after your child’s 3rd birthday, with earlier access possible for some 2-year-olds or working families.
All 3 and 4-year-olds receive 15 funded hours weekly, with many working families eligible for 30 hours. Some 2-year-olds qualify for funded childcare, and eligible working parents of children from 9 months old can access funded hours. Tax-Free Childcare reduces fees through a 20 percent government top-up.
Nursery fees in St Albans typically range from £85–£160 per day, among the highest in Hertfordshire due to strong commuter demand and sought-after school areas.
All nurseries in St Albans are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding overseen by Hertfordshire County Council.
Ask about outdoor space, waiting list length, how funded hours are applied, links to local parks and any additional costs for meals, consumables or extended sessions.
Applying for funding
St Albans is covered by Hertfordshire County Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Hertfordshire County Council website
