Nurseries in West Berkshire
West Berkshire is a largely rural and suburban unitary authority known for its countryside, villages and thriving market town of Newbury. Covering postcode districts RG14, RG18, RG19, RG20 and parts of RG7 and RG8, it includes Newbury, Thatcham, Hungerford, Theale, Pangbourne and surrounding villages. Families benefit from Great Western Railway services to London Paddington, as well as good road access via the M4, A34 and A4. The area offers countryside walks, canals, playgrounds, country parks, stables and family friendly amenities. With attractive villages, good schools and expanding new housing, childcare demand is steady across Newbury, Thatcham and key commuter villages.
Parents in West Berkshire typically pay £82 per day for childcare, which is slightly 9% higher than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £82
- Comparison
- +9% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 2,138 places
Nurseries near you in West Berkshire
Frequently Asked Questions
In West Berkshire, private nurseries typically accept children from around 3 months old, depending on staffing and places. School nurseries usually start from age 2 or 3. Funded early education normally begins the term after your child turns 3, with some 2 year olds eligible earlier depending on family circumstances or working patterns.
All 3 and 4 year olds in England receive 15 funded hours per week, with many working families able to claim up to 30 hours. Some 2 year olds also qualify for funded childcare, and eligible working parents of children from 9 months old may access funded hours. Tax Free Childcare can add a 20 percent government top up to help with remaining nursery costs.
Nursery fees in West Berkshire typically range from £70–£130 per day, with Newbury and popular commuter villages such as Thatcham, Theale and Pangbourne often at the higher end.
All nurseries in West Berkshire are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding administered by West Berkshire Council.
Ask about outdoor play areas, access to countryside or canal walks, opening hours, how funded hours are stretched across the year and any extra charges for meals, nappies, trips or late collection.
Applying for funding
West Berkshire is covered by West Berkshire Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the West Berkshire Council website
