Play Away Day Nursery - West End

1-5 Chapel Road, West End, Southampton SO30 3FE
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9.8 28 Reviews
  • Play Away Day Nursery - West End, Southampton
Play Away Day Nursery is located in West End, Southampton, and offers day care for up to 100 children from 3 months to 5 years old. They are open year round, from Monday-Friday between 7.30am and 6.30pm, closing only for bank holidays.

The nursery is made up of three separate buildings, all designed to provide children an array of opportunities to suit their development stage and likes and dislikes. The nursery also boasts a beautiful outside space including sensory gardens, playground equipment and dens. It also leads on to Hatch Grange Nature Reserve, allowing children to explore the natural world right from their front door.

The team are friendly and experienced, dedicating each day to providing a safe and engaging environment for each child.

Play Away takes every measure to maintain safety, including fingerprint identification to enter the setting, to give you peace of mind that your child is in the very best care during their time at the nursery.
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Funding & Fees

Contact Play Away Day Nursery - West End to get a personalised quote.

Contact Play Away Day Nursery - West End to get a personalised quote.

Type of Service

  • Day Nursery
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Simon Evans (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 31

Total Places for Children

  • 100

Age Range

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

Opening Times

  • Monday 07:30-18:30
    Tuesday 07:30-18:30
    Wednesday 07:30-18:30
    Thursday 07:30-18:30
    Friday 07:30-18:30

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & 1 week at Christmas week

Play Away Day Nursery - West End Reviews (28)

9.8

Play Away Day Nursery - West End has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.825) out of 10, based on 24 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Play Away Day Nursery - West End has 28 reviews.

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Review from Kelly A (Mother of Child) published on 16 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
This nursery is second to none. The setting itself is superbly clean and welcoming. Offering an array of activities to keep any child amused. The staff are so hands on and committed to the children. You can truly see they all love their work. The manager here is fantastic and really hands on. He knows
all the children by name and is caring for any additional circumstances that may be going on at home with families.
Reply from Angie Russell, Customer Care Partner at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We are delighted to hear that you have had such a positive experience with our nursery. Creating a clean, welcoming environment where children feel happy, engaged, and supported is extremely important to us, so its lovely to know this has been noticed.

Our team is truly passionate about what they do, and your kind words about their commitment and care mean a great deal to all of us. Were especially pleased to hear your feedback about our manager building strong relationships with children and families is at the heart of everything we do.
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Review from Grace F (Mother of Child) published on 18 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our little boy started in babies last month and it has been a smooth start. The staff are all so caring and welcoming and he smiles as he is being handed over at drop off. The nursery have taken time to listen to any concerns we have, and demonstrate the policies they have to keep the children safe.
Reply from Angie Russell, Customer Care Partner at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndWere so pleased to hear that your little boy has had such a smooth start with us in the baby room. Settling in can be a big milestone for families, so its wonderful to know hes smiling at drop-off and feeling happy and secure.

Were also grateful for your kind words about our team. Being caring, welcoming, and attentive to parents concerns is incredibly important to us. Were glad you feel reassured by the time we take to listen and to share the policies and procedures we have in place to keep all children safe.
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Review from Adrian L (Father of Child) published on 18 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
After a few months at the nursery, I saw a great improvement in my son's development. He has become more confident and he is engaging with everyone. His enthusiasm and energy are very positive,
When I take him to nursery he is always smiling when he sees the staff there, they are amazing and by seeing
my son smiling and happy to go in their arms, for me that says it all.
I highly recommend this nursery and I want to say thanks to all involved in my son's journey so far.
The nursery is very clean and has loads of great features. Always updating us with the latest information and always happy to answer any questions.
Reply from Angie Russell, Customer Care Partner at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndWe are absolutely delighted to hear about the positive progress your son has made during his time with us. Seeing children grow in confidence, build relationships, and develop such enthusiasm for learning is exactly what we strive for every day.

It means so much to us that he arrives smiling and happy to see the team that truly is the best reassurance for any parent, and for us as well. Our staff work incredibly hard to create a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to explore.

Were also pleased that you value our communication and the care we take in maintaining a clean, well-equipped setting. Keeping families informed and being available to answer questions is very important to us.
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Review from Clare N (Mother of Child) published on 8 October 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our baby is in the baby room and the whole team have been incredibly kind and caring with getting him settled in and happy being at nursery and away from us. He regularly gets excited, shouting the baby room team members' names in the morning to go and play and learn with them.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're delighted to hear that your little one has settled so happily into the baby room. It's lovely to know he's excited to come in each day and enjoys spending time with the team while learning and playing.
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Review from Lauren B (Mother of Child) published on 8 October 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
When starting nursery I was nervous as she was only 4 months old but the staff were so reassuring and have grown a great relationship.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you so much for your kind words! We completely understand how big a step it is to start nursery at such a young age, and we're so pleased that you've felt reassured and supported throughout the process. It's wonderful to hear that a strong relationship has grown between your little one and our team.
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Review from L A (Mother of Child) published on 8 October 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our little by started in October '24 in 'waddlers' and after an emotional start, he settled in beautifully! The staff have all been fantastic and he is thriving under their care. We have always been really happy with the care he's received and looking forward to the same when our little girl starts
next year.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you so much for sharing your lovely feedback! We're so pleased to hear that your little one has settled in so well and is thriving in the Waddlers room. It's wonderful to know you've felt supported by our team, and we're delighted that you've been happy with the care we provide.
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Review from S C (Mother of Child) published on 8 October 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We love it here. My son is thriving and has learnt so much.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you so much for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that your son is thriving and learning so much with us.
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Review from Rebecca W (Mother of Child) published on 22 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I never feel a shred of mum guilt dropping my daughter off here - she absolutely loves it! From day one, she's felt so happy and settled. She adores the staff, who are always incredibly friendly, caring, and helpful. There's always a wide variety of fun and engaging activities planned, and it's been
amazing to see how much she's learned and grown over the past year. It's such a warm, nurturing environment, and I genuinely couldn't ask for a better start to her early years.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you so much for your kind words! We're delighted to hear how happy and settled your daughter feels with us. It means the world to know that she enjoys her time here and is thriving through the activities and care we provide. Our team truly values building those nurturing, supportive relationships, and it's wonderful to see that reflected in your experience.
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Review from Diana D (Mother of Child) published on 7 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We couldn't be happier with this nursery.
The staff are warm, caring, and truly dedicated to the children's happiness and development.


Our boy has grown so much in confidence and always comes home excited about the day's fun and learning. It's a safe, nurturing, and joyful environment - highly

recommended to any family!
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you for your wonderful feedback. We're so pleased to hear that your experience with the nursery has been such a positive one. It's always encouraging to know that our efforts to create a warm, nurturing, and engaging environment are making a meaningful difference.
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Review from A C (Mother of Child) published on 1 July 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Thank you for everything you do to stimulate learning and genuinely care for my son. The staff are hardworking and friendly, my son always looks forward to going to nursery.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you for your feedback. We're pleased to hear that the environment is supporting your child's learning and that they enjoy attending nursery.
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Review from Difon P (Mother of Child) published on 1 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has thrived at this Nursery, starting in the Family First group in Brentford, London and successfully continuing in West End.
The staff have always been pleasant and caring. I would definitely recommend this nursery to new parents.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you for your kind words and recommendation! Were thrilled to hear that your daughter has thrived with us, from the Family First group in Brentford to West End. Our team is committed to providing a caring and pleasant environment, and its wonderful to know that this has made a positive difference for your family.
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Review from J S (Mother of Child) published on 5 June 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Staff are fantastic including the manager. Nothing is ever too much, so accommodating and understanding of both child and parent needs. My child seems really happy in the environment and is growing in confidence and development. I would recommend the nursery to others glad my child has them. Thank you
and keep up the good work.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you for your lovely feedback. We're so pleased to hear that both you and your child feel supported and that your child is happy and growing in confidence with us.
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Review from L M (Mother of Child) published on 9 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter is thriving at Play Away Day Nursery. She is always so happy at drop off and pick up. The team are fantastic, despite a hard day looking after kiddies, they are all so enthusiastic and engaging. They all clearly love what they do. The developmental activities and the care they give are
outstanding and we have really seen a difference in our daughter since she has joined Play Away West End. A huge thank you to the whole team.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your daughter is thriving at Play Away Day Nursery and that she's happy at both drop-off and pick-up. It's great to know that you've noticed the positive impact of the developmental activities and care provided by our team.
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Review from B C (Father of Child) published on 8 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Very good and my child could not be happier. Like things like shoes off when I pick her up.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you for your positive feedback! We're so happy to hear that your child is thriving and enjoying their time at the nursery. We appreciate you noticing the little details, like the shoes-off policy, as we strive to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for the children.
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Review from R P (Father of Child) published on 8 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both our boys thoroughly enjoyed their time at Play Away. The staff have great care and a genuine connection to the kids.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you for your lovely review! We're so happy to hear both your boys had such a fantastic experience at Play Away. Building those genuine connections with the children is at the heart of what we do, and it's wonderful to know that care shone through. We'll cherish the memories and wish your boys all the best in their next adventures!
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Review from E G (Mother of Child) published on 8 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Really supported us with his transition to start. He loves Nursey - started crying when being left but now stays more than happy. When I collect he is playing and very content. They have catered to his milk as he still has a few bottles. Always reports his day back to me. Every day they do different
activities. My older children attended this nursery too, even with SEN they were supported well and cared for.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you so much for your kind words! We're so happy to hear that your little one has settled in well and is enjoying his time at nursery. It's wonderful to know that the team has been able to support his needs and provide engaging activities every day.
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Review from M P (Mother of Child) published on 21 August 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery have been incredible and have played a massive part in my child's development! He's attended Play Away since he was 13 months old and is about to leave to start school! All the staff are so lovely and create a real connection with each child and their parents! We have loved our time with
Play Away and I know he'll really miss everyone there!
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndWhat an incredible journey your little one has had with us. Thank you for sharing it with such warmth! Starting at 13 months and now heading off to school - it's been a joy to watch him grow and thrive. Knowing that he (and you!) formed such strong connections with our team is the highest compliment. We'll miss him dearly but are so excited to see him spread his wings. Thank you for being part of the Play Away family!
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Review from L C (Father of Child) published on 26 June 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All daughter seems very happy and content at nursery. She has formed bonds with both the staff and children. We love the daily update and photos, regularly, keeping us updated with how she gets on each day. The activities are varied and we appreciate every opportunity is taken to spend time outdoors
whenever possible. Everyone at the nursery has been friendly, welcoming and approachable. It's great to see so many people who know our daughter's name. It really puts us both at ease when we drop her off.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you for your lovely feedback! We're thrilled to know your daughter is happy and content, forming bonds with both staff and children. Our daily updates and photos are designed to keep you connected to her day, and it's wonderful to hear they bring you joy. We believe in the power of outdoor activities and are glad you appreciate this. Your kind words about our friendly and approachable team mean a lot to us!
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Review from E N (Mother of Child) published on 12 June 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I couldn't be more happy with the nursery. Since the very beginning my little one loved going there.
Staff is always friendly and happy to help.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndThank you for your enthusiastic review! It's fantastic to hear that your little one loved coming to our nursery right from the start. Our friendly and helpful staff are dedicated to creating a joyful environment, and we're thrilled to know you're so happy with the care we provide. Here's to many more fun-filled days ahead!
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Review from Molly R (Mother of Child) published on 5 June 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Very good, my child always comes home very happy and well-fed! Always tells me what exciting activity they have done that day! My child always says how much she loves her nursery practitioner, they are always so lovely and polite to us and everyone!
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - West EndWe're so pleased to hear your child comes home happy and well-fed! Our team works hard to create exciting activities and it's heartening to know they've made such a positive impact. It's wonderful to hear how much your child loves their nursery practitioner - we believe in building strong, loving relationships. Thank you for your kind words!
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Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.825)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.825) out of 10 for Play Away Day Nursery - West End is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.8 out of 5 from 24 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 24 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Day Nursery is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 4.825 for Play Away Day Nursery - West End is calculated as follows: ( (248 Excellents x 5) + (27 Goods x 4) + (7 Satisfactorys x 3) + (3 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 285 Ratings = 4.825
  2. 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5'). The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Play Away Day Nursery - West End is based on 24 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    1. 4 points are available for the first 20 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews, 0.05 Points for the next five Positive Reviews, and finally 0.025 Points for the next ten Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.050, 7th = 0.050, 8th = 0.050, 9th = 0.050, 10th = 0.050, 11th = 0.025, 12th = 0.025, 13th = 0.025, 14th = 0.025, 15th = 0.025, 16th = 0.025, 17th = 0.025, 18th = 0.025, 19th = 0.025, 20th = 0.025) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.05 + 0.05 + 0.05 + 0.05 + 0.05 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 = 4
    2. 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the number of registered child places in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Day Nursery registered for a maximum of 50 child places has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 100 number of registered child places is 20, which has been reached with 24 Positive reviews. Points = 1
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. If a Day Nursery does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Play Away Day Nursery - West End

What is the Age Range of Children that Play Away Day Nursery - West End accepts?

Play Away Day Nursery - West End accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Play Away Day Nursery - West End Open?

Play Away Day Nursery - West End is open: Monday 07:30-18:30, Tuesday 07:30-18:30, Wednesday 07:30-18:30, Thursday 07:30-18:30, Friday 07:30-18:30.

How many Children does Play Away Day Nursery - West End have capacity for?

Play Away Day Nursery - West End has capacity for a total of 100 Children.

How far is Play Away Day Nursery - West End to the centre of Southampton?

3.3 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 Play Away Day Nursery - West End to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Play Away Day Nursery - West End has an Enhanced Service - more info.