Riverside Nursery interior

Welcome to our Nursery, where exceptional care and outstanding early years education come together in a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment.

State-of-the-art nursery in Darwen providing high-quality care and early education for children aged 3 months to 5 years.

Riverside Nursery, Branch Road, Lower Darwen BB3 0PR
Cozy reading corner at Riverside Nursery
Since 2007
Purpose-built nursery
About Us

Where Every Child Thrives

Riverside Nursery was purpose-built in 2007 to provide leading care and early education in a secure and stimulating environment. We combine structured learning with play-based development to help children build confidence, independence and essential social skills.

Our warm, welcoming setting gives children the freedom to explore, create and grow at their own pace, supported by a dedicated team who genuinely care about every child's wellbeing and development.

Safe & Secure
Nurturing Care
Early Learning
Social Skills

A Place for Every Age

From tiny babies to confident pre-schoolers, we have dedicated spaces and tailored care for every stage of your child's early years.

Baby Suite

3 months to 2 years

A calm, nurturing space where babies feel safe and secure. Gentle routines, sensory exploration and lots of cuddles.

Lower Riverside

2 to 3 years

Toddlers build confidence through play, developing language, social skills and independence in a vibrant, engaging environment.

Upper Riverside

3 to 5 years

Preparing children for school with creative activities, structured learning and the freedom to explore their interests.

Our Approach

Learning Through Play

Our curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence and support every child's unique development journey.

EYFS Framework

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, ensuring every child reaches key developmental milestones.

Individual Planning

Every child has a personalised learning journey, tailored to their unique interests, strengths and pace.

"In the Moment" Learning

We follow children's natural curiosity, turning everyday moments into meaningful learning experiences.

Famly Updates

Stay connected with your child's day through photos, videos and progress updates via our Famly app.

Birth to Five Matters

We use this guidance alongside EYFS for comprehensive development tracking across all areas of learning.

Play-Based Discovery

Children learn best through play. Our approach blends structured activities with free exploration and creativity.

Our Team

Qualified, Caring Professionals

Our team are qualified from Level 3 to Level 6 in early years education. Every member of staff is passionate about providing the highest standard of care and creating a warm, supportive environment where children feel safe and valued.

Training is regularly updated to ensure we maintain the highest standards of care, safety and professional development.

DBS checked and verified
Ongoing professional development
Dedicated key person for every child
Warm, consistent and reliable care

Paediatric First Aid

All staff trained and certified

Safeguarding

Comprehensive child protection

Food Hygiene

Safe food preparation standards

Level 3 to Level 6

Qualified early years professionals

Every member of our team is committed to creating a nurturing, stimulating and safe environment for your child.

Ready to Give Your Child the Best Start?

Book a visit to see our nursery in action and meet the team who'll care for your little one.

Our Spaces

A Space Designed for Growing Minds

From cosy indoor rooms to expansive outdoor adventures, every space at Riverside is thoughtfully designed to inspire learning and play.

Fun & Exploration

Where Learning Feels Like Play

Children learn through exploration: messy play, sensory activities, role play, outdoor adventure and creative expression. Every day brings new discoveries and opportunities to grow.

Messy Play & Art
Outdoor Adventure
Sensory Activities
Creative Expression

"Dirty clothes are just a sign of a wonderful day."

Children enjoying messy play and creative activities
Parent Voices

What Parents Say

Don't just take our word for it, hear from the families who trust us with their most precious little ones.

"From the very first visit, we knew Riverside was the right place for Olivia. The staff are incredibly warm and attentive, and she comes home every day full of stories about what she's been doing."

Sarah M.
Mum of Olivia, age 3

"We were nervous about leaving Noah for the first time, but the team at Riverside made the transition so smooth. The Famly updates give us real peace of mind throughout the day."

James & Rachel T.
Parents of Noah, age 2

"Aisha has absolutely flourished at Riverside. Her confidence has grown so much, and she loves the outdoor areas, especially the mud kitchen! We couldn't be happier."

Priya K.
Mum of Aisha, age 4

"The Baby Suite is wonderful. Freddie settled in quickly and the staff really take the time to understand his routine and needs. It feels like a second home for him."

Tom & Laura B.
Parents of Freddie, age 1
Visit Us

Come and See Us

We welcome families to visit and experience the nursery first-hand. We recommend visiting mid-morning or mid-afternoon to see our environment in action.

Call us
01254 695777
Best visit times
Mid-morning or mid-afternoon

Enquire Today

Fill in the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Riverside Nursery

Riverside Industrial Estate
Branch Road
Lower Darwen
BB3 0PR