Nurseries in Tonbridge and Malling
Tonbridge and Malling is a popular Kent district combining historic market towns, excellent schools and strong commuter connections. Covering postcode districts TN9–TN12 and ME18–ME20, it includes Tonbridge, West Malling, Kings Hill, East Malling, Larkfield and Hildenborough. Families benefit from fast trains to London Bridge and Charing Cross, as well as convenient access to the A21, M20 and M26. The district offers extensive parks, leisure centres, countryside walks and family attractions such as Haysden Country Park and Tonbridge Castle. Childcare demand is high across Tonbridge and Kings Hill due to strong school catchments and ongoing housing development.
Parents in Tonbridge and Malling typically pay £78 per day for childcare, which is slightly 3% higher than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £78
- Comparison
- +3% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 1,664 places
Nurseries near you in Tonbridge and Malling
Frequently Asked Questions
In Tonbridge and Malling, private nurseries generally accept children from around 3 months old. School and council nurseries typically start places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education begins the term after a child turns 3, with earlier eligibility in some cases for 2-year-olds or working families.
All children aged 3 and 4 are entitled to 15 funded hours per week in England, with many working families eligible for 30 hours. Some 2-year-olds qualify based on family circumstances, and eligible working parents of children from 9 months old can also access funded childcare. Tax-Free Childcare can offer a further 20 percent saving.
Nursery fees in Tonbridge and Malling generally range from £70–£130 per day, with Tonbridge and Kings Hill often at the higher end due to demand and commuter access.
All nurseries in Tonbridge and Malling are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding overseen by Kent County Council.
Ask about outdoor space, how the nursery uses local parks, the structure of funded hours and any additional fees for extra sessions, meals or consumables.
Applying for funding
Tonbridge and Malling is covered by Kent County Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Kent County Council website
