Waterfront Nursery

Edinburgh College Granton Campus, 350 West Granton Road, Edinburgh EH5 1QE
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Top 20 award
9.9 29 Reviews
  • Waterfront Nursery, Edinburgh
As the Waterfront Nursery name suggests, the nursery is situated near Granton’s waterfront, overlooking the Firth of Forth. The diverse staff team has been providing quality childcare for over ten years and can communicate in more than 20 languages.

The nursery houses three learning environments that support children’s development from three months to five years, with a particular focus on child-led learning. Fun and engaging activities help support the key learning experiences which are part of the national curriculums. Children take part in dance, sports, performance, and cookery experiences within the nursery.

The Waterfront Nursery aims to offer the best value childcare for families. Fees include a two-course, nutritious hot lunch, along with morning and afternoon snacks for children attending a full day. Children attending morning sessions receive a morning snack and lunch, while those attending afternoon sessions receive an afternoon snack. The nursery is open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, for 50 weeks of the year.

Parents at the Waterfront Nursery have access to an individual online learning journal for their child. Children under two receive daily sheets detailing sleep, food, and nappies. Older children receive this information as part of a verbal handover, and lunch details for pre-schoolers are displayed on the lunch board.
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Funding & Fees

Full day session for children age 6 month to 3 years, 25/26 £78.80.AM half day £42.00, PM half day £39.00
Full day session for children age 3 Years to school age 25/26 £73.60 AM have day £41.00 PM half day £38.00

We are a partner provider nursery and can accept Terrific Twos funded placements and 1140 hours funded placements
We are part of the affordable childcare scheme working in partnership with CEC and families may be offered additional funding towards the cost of childcare.

Contact Waterfront Nursery to get a personalised quote.

Contact Waterfront Nursery to get a personalised quote.

Type of Service

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

Owner

  • Edinburgh College
  • Privately Owned

Person in Charge

  • Catherine Buchanan (Manager)

Admission Information

  • children between 6 months and school age

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 36

Total Places for Children

  • 136

Age Range

  • from 0 years 6 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

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 & some bank holidays

Parking

  • The nursery has an accessible drop off area outside.

Waterfront Nursery Reviews (29)

9.9

Waterfront Nursery has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.902) out of 10, based on 29 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Waterfront Nursery has 29 reviews.

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Reviewer Connection to Waterfront Nursery
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Total of 29, showing 1-20
Review from Armando D (Father of Child) published on 13 April 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have been going to this nursery since 2020 when my first daughter was 10months old. My second daughter also goes to this nursery so, by August 2028, I will have been coming to this place everyday for 8 years straight! Safe to say we love Waterfront Nursery. The facility is well catered for all children
with lots of outdoor space nearby. Staff are also wonderful. 110% recommend.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, your kind words are very much appreciated.
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Review from O B (Father of Child) published on 26 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Every single thing is good at water front nursery but the staff the environment and all the activities giving to the children was goods the playground the toys and even when they we out of the nursery premises
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, your kind words are really appreciated.
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Review from Cristian I (Father of Child) published on 26 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
It is the best place for my child. I made the best choice for him. The staff is very attentive to them, offering them a lot of activities, including walks and outdoor activities. My little one started in the baby room. My child loves the nursery.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, your kind words are very much appreciated.
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Review from Sooraj K (Father of Child) published on 24 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The best nursery. My son is attending this nursery before 1st birthday. Everyone at nursery is amazing. My son enjoy being there. From learning perspective its an amazing place too - my son has learned new activities which were even shock to see that as we did not teach those.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, your kind words are appreciated greatly.
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Review from Anwen L (Mother of Child) published on 24 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Since our daughter started in April 2025 we have had nothing but positive experiences with the nursery. The warmth and kindness of the staff has helped our daughter thrive in the 0-2 room and she loves going into nursery. There has been a great variety of activities throughout the day and we are frequently
updated with photos. We would highly recommend the nursery to anyone looking in the area.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, we really appreciate your support and kind words.
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Review from A M (Mother of Child) published on 24 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 3.0 out of 5
This is a fantastic nursery, the kids get the opportunity to go out on trips and to explore the nearby surroundings like the beach and parks. There is a real emphasis on going out doors which is great. The only issue is that parents wishes and choices get questioned and are not always respected which
lets down the nursery.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, all feedback is appreciated as it helps us to improve you and your child's experience at Waterfront.
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Review from C L (Mother of Child) published on 24 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter is non-verbal, autistic and has high support needs so starting nursery wasn't easy for her but the consistency, patience and understanding from the staff made such a difference.


Every member of staff, from the office team to the room staff, to the kitchen, have been incredibly supportive

and committed to her wellbeing. They've always been flexible and open minded when navigating her needs and have been willing to work closely with me to make sure she feels safe, supported and settled.


Even with her limited communication I can see how happy she is to be there and the bonds she's built with the staff around her.


Watching her go from struggling with her peers to forming connections has been one of the most heartwarming things I've seen and it wouldn't have been possible without the amazing staff.


I'm honestly sad she'll be leaving for school this year but so grateful Waterfront could be part of her journey and I couldn't recommend this nursery enough!

Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, your kind words are very much appreciated.
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Review from V J (Mother of Child) published on 24 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I feel very lucky my child attends this nursery. One of the things I appreciate much is the full day outdoor option, it's amazing that the children spend time outside exploring and learning in nature.


The menu is fantastic, very varied, nutritious and clearly well thought through. It's very reassuring

knowing my child is eating healthy meals every day.


I also love the approach to learning. When staff notice a child is interested in something, they immediately support and develop that interest. It feels very natural and child led. I also love how they follow the seasons and different celebrations, decorating and planning activities so children learn in a fun way.


The diversity of cultures and languages is wonderful. My child has already picked up plenty words in different languages.


And the best part really is the staff, always welcoming and smiling. Communication is excellent with both - office and rooms and the handovers and online updates help me stay connected to my child's day.

Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, your kind words are very much appreciated.
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Review from Kirsten S (Mother of Child) published on 24 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have been using Waterfront nursery since 2019 and have always found the staff to be friendly and helpful, and they clearly really care about the children in their care. There has been very little staff turn over in the last 7 years, many of the staff are the same ones that were there when my eldest
started in the baby room. Facilities are modern and they have a proper sleep room for babies which some other nurseries don't. Food is of good quality and my daughters eat really well. We will be sad to leave for good later this year when my youngest starts school.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, your kind words are very much appreciated.
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Review from B G (Mother of Child) published on 24 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The Waterfront nursery is absolutely great! Passionate and dedicated practitioners, friendly staff and amazing facilities. The children have access to a big outdoor area and preschoolers have the option to join the forest school. Overall great!
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, we appreciate your kind words.
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Review from W B (Father of Child) published on 24 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our child has been through all 3 age rooms at Waterfront and we all have been very happy with their time there. The staff have been wonderful, any issues raised have been taken seriously and communication had been good, improving noticeably during our time there.


The facilities are excellent, good

indoor space, the playground, garden and gym hall cater to all weather, and frequent trips to the local park and beach are great. Food is great, and improving still due to the nursery's initiatives.


Though nursery is inevitably expensive, the cost is relatively cheap for Edinburgh, and we feel that there is value for money here.

Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, we appreciate your kind words.
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Review from Shanna B (Mother of Child) published on 24 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff are wonderful, approachable and friendly. My child enjoys going into nursery, and loves all the fun activities, games and learning. She also enjoys the food and loves all the nursery staff. She always looks forward to going in.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your review, we appreciate your kind words
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Review from K M (Mother of Child) published on 23 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff here are fantastic! Always caring and compassionate towards the children and parents alike. My daughter has been here since she was 10 months old (she's going to start school this year) When she first started COVID was very rife in the community so to safeguard the children and staff we were
not allowed into the nursery yet brilliant communication was in place so I knew exactly what my child had been doing/eating etc, which still continues now through parentapp and verbal communication with the friendly staff. I have had my son at waterfront for just over 2 years as well now. He was a very shy boy but has come on leaps and bounds, his confidence has improved as has his vocabulary and has learnt fantastic social skills. The practitioners really listen to what the kids like to do and what their strengths are, focus on things the kids need a bit more help with in a very positive and patient manner. They also celebrate every culture and religion with respect and food reflects thi
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you, we really appreciate your feedback. It's so nice to read everything you have experienced over the years.
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Review from Oliwia K (Mother of Child) published on 23 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
So so happy with the nursery and all the staff! My daughter adores each and every one of them (which isn't like her at all) so it's so amazing to see how comfortable and happy she is when in the care of the nursery staff, as a parent that's the most important thing to me! She is consistently learning
new things thanks to you guys and is clearly very content being at nursery and I cannot thank you enough! Highly highly recommend!
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for taking the time to review the nursery, we all love reading the lovely words that have been written about the team.
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Review from Elizabeth I (Mother of Child) published on 22 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery is perfect for my kids, I want to congratulate all the staff and thank you for all the support that our children is receiving. You are the best like Filippo says.
Thank you very much for all your involvement and dedication.
Kindly Regard
Elizabeth
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryYour words are so kind, the whole team at waterfront appreciate your review, thank you
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Review from Sandra M (Mother of Child) published on 14 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A huge thank you to everyone for their commitment and hard work. My daughter's knowledge and understanding is fantastic. She has a lot fun when she is in, even when she leave the nursery she seems to be happy, jumping, and singing all the way home which it is a good sign. I could have not done as great
job as the staff are doing all on my own. I am very greatful to have the opportunity to put my daugther at Waterfront Nursery because it is absolutely amazing nursery with wonderful caring staff. Even her nutrition it has been great since the new chef started, and sometimes eat extra. I can not be more happy.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you for your kind words, he whole team appreciated them.
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Review from M O (Mother of Child) published on 9 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All staff are very supportive. As a mother of a child who didnt know any English, the staff went out of their way to make him feel welcomed and supported hes needs along the way. Staff are very caring and nourishing, they take care of them equally. We are so lucky to have this nursery. We always feel
heard. Thank you so much for becoming family.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryYour very kind words mean so much to us, thank you.
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Review from Susie H (Mother of Child) published on 9 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son is so well looked after at Waterfront. He's grown in confidence and knowledge AND gets a full day outside. All the staff are approachable and helpful and professional to us. I'm so grateful our son goes here, I can relax whilst at work knowing he's in safe hands.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you so much for your kind words we really appreciate all feedback
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Review from Paula C (Mother of Child) published on 21 January 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son has attended Waterfront Nursery since he was 1 year old, and we've had a really positive experience. It's a great nursery with friendly, caring staff and a lovely atmosphere. The children do a wide range of engaging activities, and we really value the amount of time they spend outside. The food
prepared in the kitchen is another highlight - it always smells amazing when we arrive in the morning. We've felt confident and happy leaving our son here and would happily recommend the nursery to others.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you, we all really appreciate your kind words
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Review from L M (Mother of Child) published on 19 January 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I can't rate Waterfront highly enough, my daughter moved here at 2 when the nursery she went to closed down unexpectedly and Waterfront could not have been more accomodating or helpful. My daughter settled really quickly thanks to the dedication and warmth of the staff and she is absolutely thriving
here. They do so much engaging and stimulating activities with the children, and really care for them.
Reply from Catherine Buchanan, Manager at Waterfront NurseryThank you, your kind words mean so much to everyone in the Waterfront team.
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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.902)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.902) out of 10 for Waterfront Nursery is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.9 out of 5 from 29 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 28 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 4.902 for Waterfront Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (315 Excellents x 5) + (28 Goods x 4) + (3 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 346 Ratings = 4.902
  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 Waterfront Nursery is based on 28 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 136 number of registered child places is 27.2, which has been reached with 28 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.

Child Vacancies

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

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Awards / Recognitions (2)

Meet the Team (0)

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Frequently Asked Questions about Waterfront Nursery

What is the Age Range of Children that Waterfront Nursery accepts?

Waterfront Nursery accepts Children aged from 0 years 6 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Waterfront Nursery Open?

Waterfront Nursery 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 Waterfront Nursery have capacity for?

Waterfront Nursery has capacity for a total of 136 Children.

How far is Waterfront Nursery to the centre of Edinburgh?

3.0 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 Waterfront Nursery to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Waterfront Nursery has an Enhanced Service - more info.