Nurseries in West Dorset
West Dorset includes Dorchester, Bridport, Lyme Regis and surrounding villages. Known for its market towns, countryside scenery and strong community networks, the area is very popular with families. Demand for nursery places is stable across both rural and town locations, with good links to Weymouth, Yeovil and Exeter.
Parents in West Dorset typically pay £77 per day for childcare, which is slightly 2% higher than the UK average of £75 per day. This pricing reflects local market conditions, including operational costs, demand levels, and regional economic factors that influence childcare provision. With 982 childcare places available across West Dorset, families have a range of options to consider. Understanding these market insights helps parents make informed decisions about childcare costs and availability in West Dorset.
- Average Daily Cost
- £77
- Comparison
- +2% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 982 places
Nurseries near you in West Dorset
Frequently Asked Questions
Nurseries in West Dorset typically take children from around 3 months, with school nurseries offering places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education starts the term after a child turns 3, with earlier eligibility for some 2 year olds depending on household or work circumstances.
All 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to 15 funded hours a week, with many working families eligible for 30 hours. Some 2 year olds qualify earlier, and eligible working parents of children from 9 months may access funded childcare. Tax Free Childcare adds a 20 percent top up to help with childcare costs.
Nursery fees in West Dorset generally range from £60–£120 per day, with slightly higher costs in Dorchester and Bridport.
All nurseries in West Dorset are regulated by Ofsted, with funding overseen by Dorset Council.
Ask about outdoor facilities, forest school options, funded hour delivery, meal costs and wraparound care.
Applying for funding
West Dorset is covered by Dorset Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Dorset Council website
