Top 10 Nurseries in Lancashire | Little Mowgli Nursery

Choosing the right nursery is a crucial step in a child’s early development. Lancashire, known for its welcoming communities and high educational standards, is home to many exceptional nurseries offering high-quality early years provision. This guide explores the top 10 nurseries in Lancashire, based on factors such as Ofsted ratings, parent reviews, staff qualifications, learning environments, and overall child development support.

1. Little Mowgli Nursery – Leyland, Lancashire

Ofsted Rating: Good

Overview:
Little Mowgli Nursery in Leyland stands out for its dedication to nurturing the unique potential of each child in a friendly, secure environment. This nursery takes a holistic approach to early years learning, placing strong emphasis on exploration, imagination, and emotional wellbeing.

Key Features:

• Warm, experienced team of caregivers and educators.
  
  
• Focus on child-led play and curiosity-driven learning.
  
  
• Rich outdoor space for nature play and physical activity.
  
  
• Parent partnerships through regular updates and events.
  
  
• Emphasis on language, communication, and confidence building.
  

At Little Mowgli, children are encouraged to thrive at their own pace, supported by caring staff and enriching experiences. Families in and around Leyland value the close-knit, community feel and the focus on preparing children for their next learning adventure with love and understanding.

2. Highfield Priory Nursery – Fulwood, Preston

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

Overview:
Highfield Priory Nursery is part of the award-winning Highfield Priory School. The nursery is well known for its structured yet nurturing environment.

Key Features:

• Full-time and part-time places available.
  
  
• Emphasis on pre-literacy and numeracy skills.
  
  
• Outdoor play area with forest school elements.
  
  
• Qualified and experienced early years educators.
  
  
• Strong transition programme into Reception.
  

Why Parents Love It:
Parents appreciate the school's academic rigour combined with caring staff who help build children’s confidence and communication skills.

3. Kids Planet – Preston

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

Overview:
Kids Planet Preston offers a dynamic and child-centred approach to early education. Located close to the city centre, it serves a diverse community.

Key Features:

• Modern, purpose-built facilities.
  
  
• Age-appropriate rooms for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
  
  
• Highly trained staff using the EYFS framework.
  
  
• Freshly prepared meals onsite.
  
  
• Emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
  

Why Parents Love It:
The vibrant curriculum and open communication with parents are key strengths frequently highlighted in parent reviews.

4. Little Blossoms Nursery – Clitheroe

Ofsted Rating: Good

Overview:
Little Blossoms is a smaller, family-run nursery located in the Ribble Valley. Its personalised care and rural setting make it a firm favourite.

Key Features:

• Outdoor exploration opportunities in countryside surroundings.
  
  
• Focus on social-emotional development.
  
  
• Safe, homely environment for early learning.
  
  
• Flexible hours for working parents.
  
  
• SEN support and inclusion strategies.
  

Why Parents Love It:
Parents speak highly of the nurturing staff and the safe, calm environment that promotes both learning and emotional well-being.

5. Ashbridge Nursery – Hutton, Preston

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

Overview:
Ashbridge is a prestigious nursery and school offering top-tier early years education. It is set on beautiful grounds and blends tradition with innovation.

Key Features:

• Woodland learning and outdoor classrooms.
  
  
• Language-rich environment with early phonics.
  
  
• Meals cooked using locally sourced ingredients.
  
  
• Onsite sports and music programmes.
  
  
• Specialist teachers in PE, music, and languages.
  

Why Parents Love It:
The curriculum is broad and stimulating, preparing children exceptionally well for school and beyond.

6. Footprints Day Nursery – Chorley

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

Overview:
Footprints Day Nursery is a vibrant, purpose-built setting providing excellent care and learning for children from six weeks to five years old.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive daily routine fostering independence.
  
  
• STEM activities incorporated into play.
  
  
• Parent workshops and daily updates.
  
  
• Spacious indoor and outdoor areas.
  
  
• Strong safeguarding policies.
  

Why Parents Love It:
Parents admire the structured routine, friendly staff, and clean, spacious environment. The focus on learning through play is another big plus.

7. Noah’s Ark Nursery – Blackburn

Ofsted Rating: Good

Overview:
Noah’s Ark Nursery offers affordable, high-quality childcare. The nursery welcomes children from all cultural and religious backgrounds.

Key Features:

• Inclusive learning space with multicultural resources.
  
  
• Bilingual staff to support home languages.
  
  
• Focus on building early communication and motor skills.
  
  
• Nutritious halal food options available.
  
  
• Secure indoor and outdoor environments.
  

Why Parents Love It:
Its warm, inclusive ethos and respectful approach towards cultural diversity make it popular among local families.

8. Tiny Rockers Nursery – Burnley

Ofsted Rating: Good

Overview:
Tiny Rockers is a lively and energetic nursery with a reputation for creativity and enthusiasm in early years care.

Key Features:

• Regular music and movement sessions.
  
  
• Sensory rooms and soft play areas.
  
  
• Weekly themed activities.
  
  
• Excellent key worker support system.
  
  
• Community partnerships with libraries and parks.
  

Why Parents Love It:
Parents love the creative approach and active daily routines that keep children engaged and happy.

9. Daisy Chains Nursery – Lancaster

Ofsted Rating: Good

Overview:
Situated in the heart of Lancaster, Daisy Chains Nursery provides a calm, respectful learning environment rooted in Montessori principles.

Key Features:

• Montessori materials and techniques.
  
  
• Mindfulness and emotional regulation strategies.
  
  
• Low child-to-adult ratio.
  
  
• Natural play resources and recycled materials.
  
  
• Partnership with local schools for smooth transitions.
  

Why Parents Love It:
Parents praise the independence their children gain and the caring relationships built with educators.

10. Red Robin Private Day Nursery – Leyland

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

Overview:
Red Robin is an established and well-regarded nursery offering flexible and responsive childcare for busy parents in Leyland.

Key Features:

• Strong focus on personal, social and emotional development.
  
  
• Secure garden for physical play.
  
  
• Encouragement of curiosity and critical thinking.
  
  
• Close links with local primary schools.
  
  
• Forest school opportunities.
  

Why Parents Love It:
Its nurturing environment and high-quality educational practices are frequently highlighted in testimonials.

11. Little Explorers Nursery – Ormskirk

Ofsted Rating: Good

Overview:
Little Explorers Nursery provides a fun and stimulating space for children to learn through play and discovery.

Key Features:

• Outdoor mud kitchen and sensory trails.
  
  
• In-house chef preparing seasonal menus.
  
  
• Focus on physical development and early literacy.
  
  
• Regular parent-teacher communication.
  
  
• Visits from community helpers like fire fighters and librarians.
  

Why Parents Love It:
Families enjoy the balance of play and learning, along with a focus on outdoor exploration and life skills.

What Makes a Nursery 'Top-Rated' in Lancashire?

When evaluating top nurseries in Lancashire, the following factors are consistently taken into account:

1. Ofsted Ratings

• Nurseries rated ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Good’ consistently demonstrate excellence in early years education and care.
  

2. Staff Qualifications and Training

• Settings with highly trained staff and ongoing professional development opportunities tend to offer higher-quality experiences for children.
  

3. Learning Environments

• A mix of indoor and outdoor learning spaces, natural materials, and child-led activities enhance learning outcomes.
  

4. Parental Engagement

• Nurseries that involve parents through apps, workshops, and feedback sessions create stronger partnerships.
  

5. Inclusion and SEN Support

• Inclusive nurseries that cater to all children, including those with additional needs, are highly valued by families.
  

Tips for Parents Choosing a Nursery in Lancashire

1. Visit Multiple Nurseries

• Nothing beats seeing a nursery in action. Look out for happy, engaged children and confident staff.
  

2. Ask About the Curriculum

• Ensure the nursery follows the EYFS framework and has a clear plan for development across all areas.
  

3. Check Health and Safety Standards

• Look for cleanliness, secure entry points, and good hygiene practices.
  

4. Speak to Other Parents

• Real-life experiences provide invaluable insights into day-to-day nursery operations.
  

5. Consider Location and Hours

• Proximity to home or work and flexible timings are essential for many working families.

Also Read: - Benefits of nursery for children

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Nursery for Your Child

Every child is different, and the right nursery will offer tailored care that supports their individual development. Whether you value academic preparation, outdoor learning, emotional support, or creative play, Lancashire has a variety of excellent nurseries to choose from.