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Thrive Gillsland Manor House

2 South Gillsland Road, Merchiston, Edinburgh EH10 5DE
Thrive Gillsland Manor House Logo
Thrive Gillsland Manor House logo
Thrive Gillsland Manor House, Edinburgh
Thrive Gillsland Manor House, Edinburgh
Thrive Gillsland Manor House, Edinburgh

Thrive Gillsland Manor House consists of fun, large and open plan playrooms, that a skilled team of staff are able to tailor to suit the learning objectives of each pre-school age group.

A Winnie-the-Pooh theme helps children to exercise their imagination and love of storytelling, while there are many sensory activities, a wooden playhouse and large array of outdoor equipment also.

As well as professional care and positive learning there is a...  

Funding & Fees

Prices per morning sessions, afternoon sessions and for a full day or a full week. Funded sessions available.

Contact Thrive Gillsland Manor House to get a personalised quote:

Type of Service

  • Day Nursery

Opening Schedule

Open all year

Full days available

Yes

Half day sessions offered

Yes

Group/Owner

Person in charge

  • Stephanie Craig (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 18

Total Places for Children

  • 58

Age Range

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

Meals Provided

No

Consumables provided

No

Opening Times

  • Monday 08:00-18:00
  • Tuesday 08:00-18:00
  • Wednesday 08:00-18:00
  • Thursday 08:00-18:00
  • Friday 08:00-18:00

When Closed

  • Christmas & New Year

Thrive Gillsland Manor House Reviews (58)

9.8

Thrive Gillsland Manor House has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.789) out of 10, based on 27 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Thrive Gillsland Manor House has 58 reviews.

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Review from C K (Mother of Child) published on 31 March 2026 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience

We have sent our son to Corner House for over 2 years, from when he was a baby and now in pre-school. We are particularly impressed with the staff - they have all been exceptionally caring and attentive. The toddler and pre-school rooms have a lot of activities and educational elements which has enabled our son to thrive. It is very rewarding seeing the close connections he has made with the staff and his peers.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback! Were delighted to have been part of your sons journey from baby room through to pre-school. Its wonderful to hear how much he has thrived and built such strong bonds with both our team and his peers. Your kind words about our caring staff and engaging activities mean a great deal to us.

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Review from Rachel M (Mother of Child) published on 23 March 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I was hesitant to put my three year old into a nursery setting following two years at home being cared for by a nanny but the staff at cornerhouse immediately put those worries to rest. They are absolutely fantastic with our daughter and the setting is great. They have such a huge outdoor area which our daughter adores and it means she's always doing something different and exciting. Danielle leads the pre school team wonderfully which makes for a very engaging environment. The staff are all so creative with the fun activities and lessons that they teach. Our daughter eats well and is always full of stories when she comes home which just shows how much she loves her days at the nursery. Steph really has made such wonderful changes since we first viewed the nursery and we look forward to sending our second child to the nursery when she's older.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. Were so pleased to hear that we were able to put your mind at ease during what can be a big transition, and that your daughter has settled in so happily with us.

Its wonderful to know how much she is enjoying her time hereespecially...  

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Review from Emily S (Mother of Child) published on 7 January 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My son H has been with Corner House Gillsland for nearly 1.5 years starting in the baby room and moving up to the toddler room. The permanent staff are really fantastic, going above and beyond to make my son feel happy, engaged and looked after. They do so many fun activities (shout out to the Christmas snow tray [made of sensory flour]) and he comes back full of excitement to tell us what he's been up to. The staff clearly care about their work and the chef is great. H eats so well at nursery and has picked up a love of curries (which sound delicious!). This is a great nursery.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a lovely review. Were absolutely delighted to hear how happy H has been during his time with us, from the baby room through to the toddler room. Our team will be thrilled to know their care, enthusiasm, and dedication have made such a positive...  

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Review from Mireia R (Mother of Child) published on 17 September 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
The nursery has an exceptional team led by the Director and the Deputy Director, who have significantly improved the quality in every aspect. My son loves them and always attends happy and motivated, which speaks volumes about the positive and caring environment.
In recent months, new teachers have joined, and my son adores them. All the staff are kind, attentive and know each child very well, adapting to their individual needs and encouraging their learning with dedication.
A particularly valuable aspect is the focus on emotional development and building children's self-esteem, which I consider essential. In addition, the meals provided are varied, there are vegan and vegetarian options always nutritious and generally low in refined sugars, something I greatly appreciate as a dentist.

I am truly grateful for the care and commitment the team shows every day. Without doubt, this is the best nursery in Edinburgh.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We're thrilled to hear how happy and motivated your son is at nurseryit means a lot to know he feels supported and cared for.We truly appreciate your kind words about our leadership team and staff. Its great to hear the newer team members have made such...  

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Review from A G (Mother of Child) published on 16 September 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

The staff are wonderful at the nursery and are so warm and kind with my child. They have amazing outdoor spaces where the children can play and learn outside more than they do inside, which is great. Food is always varied and diverse and I know that they care and look after my child when they are there, which is comforting.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you so much for your kind words. We're delighted to hear that youve had such a positive experience with our nursery and that your child is thriving in our care. Our team works hard to create a nurturing, engaging environment, and its wonderful to know that the outdoor learning spaces, diverse...  

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Review from Alex D (Mother of Child) published on 8 September 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

We are really happy with this nursery! The menu is great, offering a wide variety of healthy and tasty meals for the children. Management are very approachable and always listen to parents, which makes a big difference. The rooms are clean, tidy, and well looked after, creating a safe and welcoming environment. The staff are excellent with the children - caring, patient, and always engaging them in fun and educational activities. Highly recommend!

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for taking the time to write your review, the team will be delighted to read your kind comments, thank you.

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Review from Kerri R (Mother of Child) published on 13 March 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My son has been attending here for nearly 2 years, and our 2nd is due to start next year - we couldn't be happier with the nursery we chose!
The new management team have been fantastic, but all staff across the board are great with the kids - there's a community feel to the place which we love, excellent gardens for each age group, and opportunities for extra curricular classes my son loves.
Staff know all the kids, regardless of which room they're in, which I think is especially lovely, & are great at giving interesting and detailed hand overs come the end of the day.
Food always sounds delicious, and the menus are varied and healthy.

100% would recommend!

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you so much for your glowing recommendation of our nursery, our team will be so delighted to read it and similarly new families searching for quality childcare will also find your words invaluable. Thank you again from all of us here at Thrive childcare and education.

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Review from Philippa M (Mother of Child) published on 7 March 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
We're very happy with our daughter's nursery experience.
She receives a great variety of food and I think eats better than at home sometimes(!) as she's surrounded and encouraged by other little ones eating. The nursery encourages learning, development and independence like drinking from a cup (rather than a sippy cup), washing hands before meals and taking off her own shoes. We get regular posts on the app including pictures of her learning e.g. being given flash cards of animals or fruits and encouraged to name them. She's made great relationships at nursery with the staff and other children and regularly talks about them.

A big Thanks to all the staff!

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your glowing recommendation of our nursery, we really appreciate your valuable feedback.

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Review from Cat P (Mother of Child) published on 6 March 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
The staff are amazing, cannot fault them. They are very experienced and really engage with my kids. Very encouraging towards my kids development and have a different theme each week.
The meals/snacks are healthy and there's a lot of variety.

Would highly recommend this nursery.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your glowing recommendation of our nursery, we really appreciate your valuable feedback.

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Review from S C (Mother of Child) published on 6 March 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I can't say enough good things about this nursery! The staff are absolutely wonderful - so caring, attentive, and always go above and beyond to make sure the girls are happy and well taken care of. It's clear that they truly love what they do, and it shows in how they interact with the children. My girls have loved being there every single day, and I feel completely confident that they're in great hands. The team is not only helpful but also super supportive, always ready to answer any questions and provide updates. I highly recommend this nursery to anyone looking for a nurturing and safe environment for their little ones.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your glowing recommendation of our nursery, we really appreciate your valuable feedback.

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Review from K F (Mother of Child) published on 6 March 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Corner house Gillsland is a great nursery. All the staff are fantastic with the children. I love that the staff across all rooms know all the children's names, there is a feeling that all staff are very invested in the children and their learning. It's a very friendly and welcoming environment. My daughter loves her nursery days and is always very content with going in to nursery and talks about nursery a lot when at home.

The management team are great, very hands on, continually looking at and improving areas of the nursery and great at keeping parents informed with what's going on.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your glowing recommendation of our nursery, we really appreciate your valuable feedback.

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Review from R G (Mother of Child) published on 6 March 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My daughter is very happy and settled at Corner House Nursery Gillsland. She is currently in the preschool room and has attended since she was 1 year old. All staff are extremely friendly and all know my daughter by name (even those who don't work directly with her). The well-being of the children is a top priority. Communication is overall very good. The staff create engaging learning experiences for the children and provides opportunities to go on regular outings. External agencies come in for optional sessions (football, music class). Recent upgrades to the gardens have been extremely positive. The preschool garden in particular is a lovely place to play. Highly recommend this nursery.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your glowing recommendation of our nursery, its great to hear the garden investment has been impactful. We really appreciate your valuable feedback.

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Review from R T (Mother of Child) published on 4 March 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My child has been attending Corner House Nursery Gillsland for 5 months and I am very pleased with our experience so far. Staff were very caring and kind as they helped my baby settle in and they have developed good bonds with him as a result. Activities offered are varied, fun and educational. I love that my baby gets to try so many new things there. The management team is also working hard to keep improving the nursery and it shows. It's such a friendly and welcoming place. Efforts to involve parents are really welcomed.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for taking the time to write your review it is most appreciated by ourselves and the team at the nursery.

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Review from Joana F (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Both my children have attended Corner House Gillsland in all 3 rooms - Investigators room (babies), Explorers room (toddlers) and Innovators room (pre-schoolers). I can only say great things about them, from the range of activities they have going on with the children which is impressive, to the kindness of every single person of staff and the amazing facilities including an immense garden with separate areas for the younger and older children. We are absolutely delighted with the nursery and would not change it for nothing. My children have created special bonds with the teachers and with other children and are so happy there. Thank you Corner House Gillsland Team for making my babies so happy.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for a really lovely and heartfelt review, it really does mean the world to us and the team at the nursery to hear such a positive review.

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Review from P U (Father of Child) published on 27 February 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Our daughter loves to attend and she keeps surprising us with all the exciting things that she has learned at nursery.
The staff are very responsive and take great care of the little ones.

The current management had brought in substantial improvements. Communication is now much clearer, events are organised on a regular basis etc.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

It's wonderful to hear from you. Clear and effective communication is paramount, and it's brilliant to hear the nursery team is really getting this right. Thanks again from all of us at Thrive Childcare and Education.

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Review from Benjamin S (Father of Child) published on 19 February 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

This is a very reliable and well-run nursery. They communicate well with the parents, keeping us in the loop about everything that's going on. They're very invested in my daughter's development and she responds really well to all the staff there and the activities they put on.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your wonderful review of our nursery, its super to hear how happy you are with the communication at the nursery as that really is as important to us as it is to you as a parent.

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Review from Sarah W (Mother of Child) published on 19 February 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

We love Corner House Nursery Gillsland. Our son is in a happy, safe and caring environment. Highly recommend. The staff are all highly engaged with the children, and provide a positive learning environment at all times.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your wonderful review of our nursery, it's always a pleasure to read kind words and thoughts from families.

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Review from K W (Mother of Child) published on 19 February 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My son has attended this nursery for just over a year and has recently moved into the toddler room. He loves nursery, loves the staff and talks about nursery a lot when we're home. Despite only attending one day a week, he settled so quickly into the baby room and now the toddler room - which is a real testament to the staff and the environment they provide. The management team are very friendly and the communication from them about the nursery is brilliant. The staff on the nursery floor are very nurturing and clearly have a wealth of experience and knowledge - they know my son well and really look to support his development and his interests. The handover is thorough and I'm always impressed by the range of experiences and play opportunities. The nursery is clean, the resources are good quality and there's a great range of food provided.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your wonderful review of our nursery, its always a pleasure to read kind words and thoughts from families and your detailed review will really help other families in their search for great childcare, thank you again.

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Review from P T (Mother of Child) published on 19 February 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

We've used this nursery for both our children and couldn't be happier with the current management and team. Great communication, plenty of outdoor play and excursions to the local area, and staff who are engaged and care for our kids.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your wonderful review of our nursery, it's always a pleasure to read kind words and thoughts from families.

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Review from F M (Mother of Child) published on 19 February 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

The staff are lovely, my child is always getting cuddles, hugs and attention. I would highly recommend this nursery. My child has been there in all 3 levels, baby room, toddler room and preschool and has thoroughly enjoyed and thrived in all of them.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Thrive Gillsland Manor House

Thank you for your wonderful review of our nursery, its wonderful to hear your son is thriving in our setting.

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Child Vacancies

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

News (0) & Events (0)

News

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Awards / Recognitions (4)

Meet the Team (2)

Stephanie Craig Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2023
Stephanie Craig

I have worked in childcare for the last 20 years and it is truly my passion in life. My focus in early years is to improve the outcomes for all children and families in the nursery. I love to see the joy on a child’s face when exploring all that nursery life can bring. Looking forward to Gillsland, I am excited as to what the future holds.

Rebecca Weir Job Title: Deputy Manager Joined: 2020
Rebecca Weir

I have worked at Gillsland for the last 5 years and have a strong passion and love for this nursery. I have a strong focus on and take joy in improving and developing provocations and areas for children to explore. I feel strongly about getting our families involved at any opportunity and enjoy arranging or organising open/family days for our team to build on these strong relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions about Thrive Gillsland Manor House

What is the Age Range of Children that Thrive Gillsland Manor House accepts?

Thrive Gillsland Manor House accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Thrive Gillsland Manor House Open?

Thrive Gillsland Manor House is open: Monday 08:00-18:00, Tuesday 08:00-18:00, Wednesday 08:00-18:00, Thursday 08:00-18:00, Friday 08:00-18:00.

How many Children does Thrive Gillsland Manor House have capacity for?

Thrive Gillsland Manor House has capacity for a total of 58 Children.

How far is Thrive Gillsland Manor House to the centre of Edinburgh?

1.7 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 Thrive Gillsland Manor House to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Thrive Gillsland Manor House has an Enhanced Service - more info.