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The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

St John's Room, 19 St Johns Road, Hedge End, Southampton, Hampshire SO30 4AF
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The Mulberry Bush Hedge End, Southampton
The Mulberry Bush Hedge End, Southampton
The Mulberry Bush Hedge End, Southampton

Hedge End is one of two new additions to The Mulberry Bush family. Previously known as Little Acorns, the Hedge End setting is now part of a growing story. It’s a warm, welcoming space where children feel safe, loved, and ready to explore.

Type of Service

  • Day Nursery

Opening Schedule

Open all year

Full days available

Yes

Half day sessions offered

Yes

Group / Owner

Person in charge

  • Chloe Brown(Manager)

Admission Information

  • We also offer playgroup session which are free for 3-5 year olds

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 16

Total Places for Children

  • 60

Age Range

  • from 0 years 3 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Opening Times

  • Monday07:30-18:00
  • Tuesday07:30-18:00
  • Wednesday07:30-18:00
  • Thursday07:30-18:00
  • Friday07:30-18:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & Christmas

Funding & Fees

The following fixed fees apply across all our rooms — Strawberries, Raspberries and Elderberries (3 months – 4 years).

For eligible families, we’re able to accept government funding.

Non-funded Full Day £78
Non-funded Half Day £54.50 (AM) and £49.50 (PM)
Fully Funded Full Day £16.40 (food, consumables, and 30-minute charge)
Fully Funded Half Day £8.20 (food and consumables only)

Partially Funded Full Day (e.g., 2 hours of funding used) £51 (8.5 hours x £6 hourly rate) + £10 (food and consumables) = £61

Contact The Mulberry Bush Hedge End to get a personalised quote:

The Mulberry Bush Hedge End Reviews (29)

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9.9

The Mulberry Bush Hedge End has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.902) out of 10, based on 29 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time The Mulberry Bush Hedge End has 29 reviews.

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Review from L W (Mother of Child) published on 21 July 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

My little boy started at the Mulberry Bush in June and and i am so pleased we chose this nursery. He seems to be thriving there. The renovation has made a massive difference, it is a lovely space for little ones to grow and the staff are all wonderful.

↩Reply from Somer Miles, Executive Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Thank you so much for your lovely review.

We are delighted to hear that your little boy has settled in so well since joining us in June and is thriving at nursery. It's wonderful to know that you are pleased with your choice and that both our recent renovations and dedicated team have made such...  

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Review from Lizzy S (Mother of Child) published on 2 July 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience
Our Son has been going to this preschool for a while and he *and we* love it!

The staff are fantastic and he always comes out happy. The app is updated through the day so we can see what hes up to and there's always lots going on. Luckily for us he is there until he goes to school in 2027!

↩Reply from Somer Miles, Head of Early Years at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End
Thank you so much for your lovely review!

We're delighted to hear that both you and your son are enjoying your experience with us. Knowing that he comes home happy each day is exactly what we hope for, and it's wonderful to hear that you find our updates through the app helpful in keeping you...  

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Review from Natasha T (Mother of Child) published on 2 July 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

Mulberry Bush have done a fantastic job in transforming the nursery into a nurturing and safe environment. We were a little apprehensive when they bought out the previous owners, as we loved the family run environment that they welcomed us into originally, but that caring and inclusive environment has not changed at all! You can feel that each member of staff know and care about your child as an individual, and go out of their way to make each and every child part of their family. They have fresh activities and themes every month, so it doesn't feel like they are repeating things on a rota. The refurbishment to the building was long over due, but they have also managed to retain the "village" feel to the building and have increased security. My child is thriving and growing in the care of mulberry bush, it will genuinely be heartbreaking for her when she has to go to school next year.

↩Reply from Somer Miles, Head of Early Years at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Thank you so much for your lovely review and for taking the time to share your experience. We truly appreciate your honesty about your initial apprehension when the nursery changed ownership, and we're so pleased we've been able to retain the warm, caring, family atmosphere that meant so much to...  

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Review from G T (Father of Child) published on 2 July 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience
We're so happy with Mulberry Bush. I think it's for to say that we were nervous when the previous nursery was changing ownership. We absolutely didn't need to be. The new management is slick, well run, they've hugely upgraded the building to make it feel like a much more modern, clean and well regulated place.
Our 3 year old absolutely loves it there, the staff are incredibly warm and welcoming, but firm when they need to be, which she really responds well to.
The management are also really helpful with the form filling and completion that's required!

Just absolutely top notch.

↩Reply from Somer Miles, Head of Early Years at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for sharing your experience.

We completely understand that a change in ownership can feel uncertain, so it means a great deal to hear that we've been able to put your minds at ease. We're delighted that you've noticed the improvements to the nursery...  

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Review from James H (Father of Child) published on 2 July 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience
I have been bringing my daughters to this nursery for 6 years, and while my elder daughter (now at school) had an absolutely fantastic experience here in the old nursery setting, myself and my wife are thoroughly overwhelmed by the amazing transformation that has taken place and are fully confident her younger sister will blossom and thrive in her early years being cared for in the beautiful refurbished rooms and outdoor space; excellently supported by a wonderful team of staff.
The only one thing I can fault with the development, was the assurance of painted car parking spaces which doesn't seem to have materialised. This has always been the biggest issue when attending the setting, despite numerous requests from the management team for parents to use all available space (there is room for 6 cars if parked with consideration for others). I had hoped that with marked bays, it might encourage less selfish positioning of vehicles.

Other than that one gripe, it's amazing!

↩Reply from Somer Miles, Head of Early Years at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End
Thank you so much for your continued support over the past six years and for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review.

It means the world to us that you've trusted us with both of your daughters' early years, and we're delighted to hear how much you and your wife have appreciated the...  

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Review from Victoria B (Mother of Child) published on 2 July 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience
Our daughter currently attends The Mulberry Bush in Hedge End. Since the recent revamp, the venue has become incredibly light, airy, and welcoming-an environment where we know our child is in safe hands. The staff truly care about the wellbeing and safeguarding of every child, becoming more like friends than just educators.

Since the takeover, our daughter's speech has come on leaps and bounds, and the upgraded outdoor space is a massive improvement. The nursery is excellent at communication, immediately informing parents of any minor bumps or temperature changes, and they are always readily available for updates if you have concerns during the day. With a vast menu and brand-new, relevant resources, it has understandably become a highly sought-after, premium nursery in the area. In fact, places fill up so quickly that we've already enrolled our second daughter-and she has just been born!

↩Reply from Somer Miles, Head of Early Years at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for taking the time to share your experience with us.

We're delighted to hear how happy you are with the changes at The Mulberry Bush and that you've noticed such positive progress in your daughter's speech and development. Creating a safe,...  

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Review from A G (Mother of Child) published on 23 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

My son is attending The Mulberry Bush Hedge End, Since October 2025 and I have seen a significant change in him. He used to cry and afraid going to the previous nursery. In The Mulberry Bush Hedge End, they look after him, I can see less accidents happening in this nursery, he is happy, staff is really nice & knowledgeable. Pickup time they explain what my child did & eat in the whole day. They have a app where I can message them anytime and that is a ease for me and I can see what exactly he eat and if he slept or not and his progress. I will Highly Recommend this Nursery.

↩Reply from Somer Miles, Head of Early Years at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Thank you for taking the time to share such a wonderful, positive review. We are so pleased to hear that your child is doing so well at our setting! We look forward to continuing supporting your child to thrive at The Mulberry Bush :)

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Review from C N (Mother of Child) published on 16 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

Switched my son over to mulberry bush hedge end in April and I can honestly they have all round been great, my son comes out so so happy and runs in to see everyone. The communication is great, I always get updated and they always respond to questions quickly.

↩Reply from Somer Miles, Executive Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your lovely feedback.

We are so pleased to hear that your son has settled in so well since joining Mulberry Bush Hedge End. It is wonderful to know that he comes into nursery so happily and is excited to see the team each day - seeing children feel...  

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Review from Olivia M (Mother of Child) published on 16 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

Our daughter absolutely loves attending Mulberry Bush Nursery. Since the renovations, the space feels even more welcoming and engaging for the children. The staff are always so kind, caring, and supportive, and it's clear how much effort they put into creating a happy environment. We've seen such a positive difference in our daughter's confidence and excitement every day she goes in. Highly recommend!

↩Reply from Somer Miles, Executive Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End
Thank you so much for your lovely review and recommendation. We really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with us.

We are delighted to hear that your daughter loves coming to Mulberry Bush Nursery and that you've noticed such a positive difference in her confidence and...  

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Review from Chioma S (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

My experience had been wondering. My child absolutely loves the experience at Mulberry bush. So glad to have been part of this experience. The support I have received has been exceptional for my Child's development.

↩Reply from Rachael Thomson, Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Thank you for your kind words Chioma, we are really glad that your little one is enjoying their time at the Mulberry Bush!

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Review from Lauren B (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

The transformation of the nursery has been wonderful, and my daughter has progressed amazingly! Everything is smooth running and all staff are so kind and caring :) I feel my daughter is safe there and her development is supported.

↩Reply from Rachael Thomson, Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Thank you Lauren for your lovely review. We are so pleased to hear that you daughter is enjoying her time at the Mulberry Bush and doing so well. We are really excited to see all the children thriving in the new environment and especially glad that you feel confident in the care that she receives.

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Review from Stephanie C (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

A newly refurbished nursery to the highest standards. We've been using the same setting for 6+ years for both of our children and what stands out for us is the amazing staff. Genuinely interested in the wellbeing of our kids, always accommodating and just a wonderful place for kids to thrive.

↩Reply from Rachael Thomson, Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Thank you so much for your feedback Stephanie and thank you for bearing with us while we renovated the nursery! The staff team will be really touched by your words, as you know they work incredibly hard and it is lovely to hear when that is recognised.

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Review from Heather D (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

The Mulberry Bush has been a lovely environment to send my little one, she and myself were very anxious after deciding to leave nursery till she was 2 years old but the staff have been amazing at catering to her needs and makong myself and her dad feel more at ease with the starts of her education. Amazing

↩Reply from Rachael Thomson, Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Thank you for your lovely feedback. Sending you precious child into a nursery is a difficult decision for any family and we are always honoured when we are chosen. I am really pleased to hear that we have been able to provide you with the reassurance that she is being well cared for and that she is progressing well. I will make sure that the staff team receive your feedback.

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Review from Stephanie M (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

This nursery has been the best nursery that my child has been to, they have supported my toddler with their development, and the staff are friendly. You are kept up to date through there app with everything that has happened (ie what they have ate, how much they have eaten, sun cream and more) There has been a lot of change but the change has been good. I recommend this nursery to everyone, you won't be let down. I will be sending my unborn child there aswell when they are old enough to go.

↩Reply from Rachael Thomson, Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Dear Stephanie, thank you for your kind words. We are so glad that you feel confident in the care that we provide and, most importantly, that your little one is thriving! Thank you too for bearing with us through the changes, we agree that it has absolutely been worth the upheaval. We are looking forward to baby joining us soon.

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Review from Andrew S (Father of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience
Since the re-structure and re-development of Little Acorns (Mulberry Bush), the space has instantly become lighter, more welcoming and top notch. It is evident on the kids and the members of staff there that it is an enjoyable place to be - even in 30+ temperatures.
The staff are always welcoming when you bring your little one into the setting (shouting their names and good morning as you enter the premises), which doesn't seem a lot but makes a huge difference for the child and the parents.
We feel comfortable and happy knowing our child will have a great day at Little Acorns - and that is all a parent can ask for.

Thank you to the whole team.

↩Reply from Rachael Thomson, Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Thank you very much for your lovely feedback Andrew, we really proud of the beautiful new environment and so glad to hear that families are enjoying it. Your kind words will mean the world to the team, as you say, small things really matter and reflect the care and consideration that they have for every child.

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Review from Rachel L (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience

Highly recommend to any parent who is looking for a supportive and nurturing environment. Couldn't be happier with the care our little boy receives. He has grown in confidence and in his social skills since starting here. He is always so excited to go in. It's clear the staff and well trained and work in a led well environment.

↩Reply from Rachael Thomson, Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback Rachel. I am thrilled to hear that your son is enjoying nursery so much. The team love having him!

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Review from Daniella C (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience
I was fortunate enough to be able to stay off work for my son's first year, so naturally I felt very nervous about sending him to nursery - as I'm sure most parents do. However, from the very beginning, the whole team made me feel completely at ease and gave me so much confidence that he was in the best hands.
The staff have always been so warm, caring and easy to trust, and I really appreciate the regular updates and little photos on the app throughout the day. It's so reassuring to see what he's been up to and how happy he is.
My son settled in so well and quickly built such a lovely bond with his key person, which made the transition so much easier for both of us. Every member of the team has been amazing, supportive and genuinely caring, and I couldn't be more grateful for everything they do.

Thank you all for making such a positive difference to our experience.

↩Reply from Rachael Thomson, Director at The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

Dear Daniella, thank you so much for your lovely feedback. We are glad to hear that your little boy is thriving and that you are happy and have confidence in the care he is receiving. The Hedge End team are incredibly dedicated and will be very touched by your review.

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Review from Elsa I (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience
We couldn't be happier with The Mulberry Bush! From the moment we walked through the doors, it was clear how child-focused and caring the whole nursery is. The staff are warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate about helping every child grow and thrive.
The recently refurbished setting is absolutely amazing - bright, modern, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed for little learners. The garden area is fantastic and gives the children so much space to explore, play, and enjoy the outdoors safely.
The learning resources are also outstanding, with so many creative and engaging activities that support development while making learning fun. Our son has grown so much in confidence and happiness since attending.

We're so grateful to have found such a nurturing, supportive, and inspiring nursery. Highly recommend The Mulberry Bush to any parent looking for a caring and high-quality nursery / pre school environment!

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Review from Danielle G (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience
I have brought both my children to this nursery and they have always took great care with both of them. My 8 year old is autistic and the care and compassion was absolutely amazing. Supporting her even in school year R helping them to understand her.
The latest renovation has been truely remarkable. It's a lovely big room for pre schooler lots of new toys and equipment and very modern. Security door at the enterence for our children's safety is great.

I highly recommend this nursery.

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Review from J H (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2026 Submitted via Website•
Overall Experience
Our little girl has been attending nursery since she was 11 months old and she's now 2 and a half, we couldn't imagine her being anywhere else!
Although she can still get upset at drop off sometimes, it says everything about the staff that she settles so quickly and always comes home happy, smiling and full of stories about her day. Her confidence has grown so much and she has learned an incredible amount during her time there.
The care, love and attention she receives from all the staff is amazing, and the support they've given us through every stage has been incredible - especially with potty training. Their patience, encouragement and consistency made such a huge difference and really helped make the whole process so much easier for both us and our daughter.

As parents, there's no better feeling than knowing your child is happy, safe and genuinely cared for. Thank you for everything you do - you've played such a huge part in her early years and we're so grateful for you all!

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Meet the Team (2)

Chloe Brown
Chloe BrownJob Title:Nursery ManagerJoined: 2024

Chloe has worked in childcare for nearly six years, progressing from a Level 3 Apprentice to Nursery Manager at our Hedge End setting. She holds qualifications in Childcare, Makaton, and Understanding Children’s Mental Health. Previously working as an SENCO, Chloe continues to maintain strong links with the SEN team and enjoys supporting children through their individual milestones. She also played a key role in the Hedge End nursery renovation.

Chloe began her Mulberry Bush journey in 2024 before transferring over to Hedge End in 2025 to assist in the beginnings of the renovation.

Alex Callahan
Alex CallahanJob Title:Nursery Deputy ManagerJoined: 2024

Alex joined The Mulberry Bush in 2024 as Deputy Room Lead in the toddler room at Hedge End. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and natural connection with children quickly led her to progress into the Preschool Room Leader role before becoming Nursery Deputy Manager.

Having supported children, families, and staff throughout the nursery’s transition, Alex has played an important role in helping shape the setting into the welcoming environment it is today.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Mulberry Bush Hedge End

What is the Age Range of Children that The Mulberry Bush Hedge End accepts?

The Mulberry Bush Hedge End accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is The Mulberry Bush Hedge End Open?

The Mulberry Bush Hedge End is open: Monday 07:30-18:00, Tuesday 07:30-18:00, Wednesday 07:30-18:00, Thursday 07:30-18:00, Friday 07:30-18:00.

How many Children does The Mulberry Bush Hedge End have capacity for?

The Mulberry Bush Hedge End has capacity for a total of 60 Children.

How far is The Mulberry Bush Hedge End to the centre of Southampton?

4.3 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact The Mulberry Bush Hedge End to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. The Mulberry Bush Hedge End has an Enhanced Service -more info.