Loading...

Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Newfield House, 1 New Street, Musselburgh EH21 6HY
Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten Logo
Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten logo
The staff are all so friendly, kind and professional and really care about the children.Claire C(Mother of Child)
Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten, Musselburgh
Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten, Musselburgh
Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten, Musselburgh

Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten provides quality childcare for children aged from 12 weeks to 5 years and is open from 8am to 6pm.

Delighted to have been awarded NMT Nursery Group Award 2018.

Early years development is encouraged within a stimulating atmosphere, consisting of spacious playrooms, extensive resources and planned activities to help children grow and learn in confidence.

A combination of indoor and outdoor learning opportunities makes for healthy self-development.

The...  

Funding & Fees

Contact us to learn more about our competitive fee structure. Funded spaces available.

Contact Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten 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

  • Louise Smith (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 37

Total Places for Children

  • 100

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

  • 2 weeks over Christmas & New Year

Parking

  • There is plenty of on street parking outside the nursery making drop offs, pick ups and visiting easy for your family.

Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten Reviews (57)

9.4

Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten has a Review Score of 9.4 (9.437) out of 10, based on 14 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten has 57 reviews.

Filter Reviews
Overall Experience
Date Published
Reviewer Connection to Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten
Loading...
Showing 57 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from Ivana C (Mother of Child) published on 9 June 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

We placed my oldest son into MNK at 18 months old hoping it would help with his speech delay. We later found out he had glue ear, issues with his tonsils and adenoids. Which caused him to have hearing loss. The nursery were and continue to be so understanding of my sons struggles and needs. Working alongside him to make him feel comfortable. Both my sons enjoy going to nursery. Their eyes light up when they see familiar faces every week and are always greeted with a smile. Thank you MNK for taking care of my boys!

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you for your wonderful review. We are delighted to hear that both of your sons enjoy their time at MNK and feel so happy and welcomed by our team.

We are especially pleased that we have been able to support your eldest son and work alongside your family to meet his individual needs....  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from J C (Father of Child) published on 1 June 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Cannot praise staff enough, positive nurturing environment ran by genuine passionate staff. Child has been there over a year now: communication, level of professional and engagement with our little ones development has been refreshing and proactive.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for your kind words. Were delighted to hear that your child has had such a positive experience with us over the past year. Creating a nurturing environment with passionate and caring staff is at the heart of everything we do, so its wonderful to know this has come through in our...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Susan H (Mother of Child) published on 1 June 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Can't fault the staff in the Tweenies room, nothing but excellent care for my child. They meet all his needs of him no issues, always have the best days smiling and laughing. They are great at updating the app throughout the day, so when I'm at work, I can have a look at what he's been up to. Thank you

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback. Were delighted to hear how happy your child is in the Tweenies room and that the team provide such excellent care and support for his needs. Its wonderful to know the app updates help you feel connected to his day while youre at work. Seeing the children smiling and laughing is what its all about! Thank you again for your kind words and support.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from V U (Mother of Child) published on 1 June 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Since 2021, we have had both our kids through the nursery from 10 months old with our youngest now 3. I have witnessed the transformation this nursery has undergone and I think it must rate amongst the best in East Lothian now. All credit goes to an amazing local team. They are fantastic.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for your kind words and continued support since 2021. It has been a pleasure to care for both of your children over the years, and were so proud to hear how positively you feel about the nurserys journey and transformation. Our amazing team work incredibly hard to create the best...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from D W (Father of Child) published on 1 June 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My wife and I are self-employed. We made the difficult decision to put our wee boy into nursery, three days a week, from six months old. Happily, it has worked out very well. The team are great, the location and facilities are fantastic, our son is very happy, and we get regular updates throughout the day with the app. I'd have no hesitation recommending it to a friend.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We know what a big decision it is to place your child into nursery, especially from such a young age, so were delighted to hear how happy youve all been with your experience. Its wonderful to know your little boy is thriving, enjoying his time with us, and...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Taylor P (Mother of Child) published on 21 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Our toddler started in the baby room at 9 months old and has moved through to the toddler room and is now 2.5 years old. He has thrived at nursery, and has loved it. He has been very well taken care of and we can tell how loved he is by the nursery staff. He runs in every morning and goes straight in for cuddles and is excited to see his friends and the staff! When he struggled with the transition from Tweenies to toddlers the staff took it at his pace and we were 100% confident leaving him in their care.

He has tried a wide variety of foods and the socialising he's recieved has been brilliant. The staff send us updates regularly (including really lovely pictures) and we can see he gets a wide variety of activities inside and outside. We chose this nursery for the outside activities and it has really delivered. He has done lots of crafts for different events and has come on so much at nursery. We love the staff that work in Musselburgh at have had great experiences with everyone

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are delighted to hear how happy and settled your little one has been with us and that he enjoys coming into nursery each day.

Its wonderful to know you felt supported through each transition and that youve enjoyed the updates, activities, and outdoor...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from J B (Mother of Child) published on 7 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My daughter started with the nursery when she was 12 months old, and she is now almost 5, starting school this August. We have been reflecting on her time at the nursery; all the friends she has made, how she has grown and developed in so many ways. A massive thanks to all the staff at MNK, as throughout they have been supportive, encouraging and created an environment where our daughter has blossomed. She has particularly loved the emphasis on being outdoors, learning and exploring through nature. In recent weeks, they are back to walks on the beach and river right next to the nursery, 'finding treasure' and learning about the environment around them.

Last year was a really difficult year for us as a family, but the nursery went above and beyond. They were able to add additional sessions when needed and provided a caring, supportive and settled environment for our daughter, which helped us all during this challenging period.

Thank you! We appreciate all you do!

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for your lovely review.

Its been a privilege to be part of your daughters journey from 12 months old to almost starting school. Were so pleased to hear how much she has grown, the friendships she has made, and how much she has enjoyed learning outdoors and exploring...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Madeline S (Mother of Child) published on 7 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Our two daughters have been attending MSK since October 2025. They settled in very easily and all the staff have been very welcoming. What was important for us was that our children could have plenty of time outdoors and in an environment that nurtures creativity, independence and confidence. The outdoor space at the nursery is fab, and they go on plenty of outings to see the ducks and swans in the river, and along the coast to play areas. My preschooler is getting more confident with recognising and writing letters and numbers in preparation for P1, and my toddler is getting more independent week by week. They have themes month by month which the children get to learn about (seasons, animals, space, etc.). We are really fond of all the staff, who clearly work there because they love children. The fact our kids go to nursery and come home happy says it all.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for your lovely review.

Were so pleased your daughters have settled in well and are enjoying their time with us. Its wonderful to hear theyre growing in confidence and independence, and that the outdoor play, outings, and monthly themes have been such a positive part of their...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Chrystel C (Mother of Child) published on 29 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
I genuinely cannot speak highly enough of the experience we've had for our two sons. Both of them absolutely love going to nursery, always excited in the mornings and most importantly, happy at the end of the day. Every member of the team is warm, friendly, and approachable even Robert, the chef, takes the time each morning to greet families, which really reflects the caring and inclusive atmosphere throughout the nursery.

The staff put so much time and energy into supporting my sons, and they are incredibly in tune with their individual personalities, interests, and needs. My son's previous key worker in the Toddler room still takes the time to check in on him to see how he is getting on. He has now developed particularly close bonds with two members of staff in his room. Seeing the trust and affection he has for them is incredibly reassuring as a parent, and it's clear that they have played a huge role in his confidence and happiness. Staff like them are a real credit to the nursery

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you ever so much for your brilliant review, we are so glad to have you part of the Thrive family.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from S Y (Mother of Child) published on 24 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My daughter started at MNK when she was 10 months old, she is now 2. We were very nervous about her starting nursery and weren't sure how she would react. The staff very quickly put our minds at ease and we knew we were leaving her in the best possible hands. All staff members are kind and caring and know our daughter so well by now. She loves them all and talks about them at home often, showing how much they mean to her.

We have been delighted to see our daughter flourish and develop new skills with the gentle encouragement of the nursery practitioners. They truly celebrate every new milestone and we love receiving regular photos and updates about her learning and development.

We particularly like the outdoor spaces at MNK and the emphasis on learning and playing outdoors. The nursery also makes good use of local outdoor spaces such as the local park and beach.

Our daughter looks forward to nursery every day and we would thoroughly recommend MNK!

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you ever so much for your lovely review and recommendation, the team really appreciate it, and thank you for being part of our Thrive family.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from E J (Mother of Child) published on 10 March 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

The staff have been brilliant and meeting the needs of the child. Child really seems to enjoy themselves once they are settled in. However, one area which could really be improved is the updates. Some days we don't get key updates (i.e. what food, nappies and naps) all which are needed to know for the child's care. Otherwise there are absolutely no complaints, the team are brilliant and caring and the child really enjoys themselves!

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

The staff have been brilliant and meeting the needs of the child. Child really seems to enjoy themselves once they are settled in. However, one area which could really be improved is the updates. Some days we don't get key updates (i.e. what food, nappies and naps) all which are needed to know for...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from K M (Mother of Child) published on 17 February 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Our child loves going to nursery and is always excited in the mornings to arrive to breakfast with her friends. The staff in the Tweenies room were amazing and the ones in Toddlers are as well. We often see Louise, the manager, in with the kids reading when we arrive to collect our child. Our child can usually listen off who they spent time with that day and what activity was their favourite. We always get a report from staff on toileting (potty training) and meals and general day activities. Our child loves their teachers and it's clear that's reciprocated which is such an amazing feeling knowing they are in caring hands when we can't be with them. The facility is open and welcoming. The road outside is a bit chaotic during busy times but that's not a private road. Within the gates it is clear our child is secure. The main doors could do with upgrading (don't close without tugging) but there are more internal doors before toddler room. We can't wait for preschool later this year

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for your lovely review.

We're delighted to hear how excited your child is to come to MNK and that she has enjoyed both Tweenies and Toddlers. It's wonderful to know she feels happy, secure, and can share details about her day with you.

We're pleased the daily updates give...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from J F (Father of Child) published on 3 February 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Our son started at MNK around four months ago and we've been thrilled with his experience to date.

Due to work commitments, we had to send him to nursery far sooner than we would have liked, as he seemed so tiny and young. But MNK has been wonderful: he is almost always happy when we drop him off and pick him up, tired out from a day of playing and eating and discovering. We couldn't ask for more from the Baby Room staff, especially his assigned worker, who he adores. We always get information about food, naps and activities. The staff are switched on, caring and attentive. Being around other babies and in such a positive environment has really helped with weaning, too; the menu is varied and we're pleased he gets to discover such a range of foods. We are so appreciative of them helping our son thrive. Management have also been friendly and engaging. Fees feel high but are standard for quality childcare in 2026 and in the area - and if our son is happy, then that's enough.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review. Were absolutely delighted to hear how happy your son has been at MNK and how supported youve felt during what we know can be a very emotional transition back to work.

It means a great deal to us that he settles so well each...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from J C (Father of Child) published on 23 September 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My daughter recently joined Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten and has settled in so well. She absolutely loves being outdoors and this nursery really nurtures that passion with so many opportunities for outdoor learning and play. She comes home happy and full of stories about her day, which is such a joy to see.
The staff are warm, caring, and communicate really well with parents, keeping us updated and making sure we feel involved. It's clear they genuinely care about the children and their development.

I'm really pleased we chose Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten - it's a lovely, supportive environment where children can thrive.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and heartfelt review. Were absolutely delighted to hear that your daughter has settled in so well and is enjoying her time with usespecially outdoors! Nurturing a love for nature and learning through play is at the heart of what we do, so its wonderful to know...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Stephanie B (Mother of Child) published on 4 March 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
I would highly recommend this nursery to anyone, the staff are fantastic with my son, he really loves his nursery days and is starting to build friendships. Activities offered are varied so the children get to experience a variety of fun games and learning activities.
My first son also attended this nursery 3 years ago and it is nice to see some of the same staff still there.
The reason I have given a ‘good’ overall rating instead of ‘excellent’ is due to a couple of services I think should be in place. One is dinner being provided. This used to be included however now it is only a late snack. As the day is long, until 6 pm, I feel it is far too late to feed toddlers when they get home. Because of this I and other parents pick up at 5 pm or before so they can get their children home for dinner (you are still paying until 6 pm).

Secondly, it is a shame that the term time option is no longer an option.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you for your glowing recommendation, Stephanie. I have passed your feedback over to the regional manager and nursery manager as feedback is extremely important to us, thank you again for taking the time to write the review it is much appreciated.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Jessica S (Mother of Child) published on 14 February 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
We joined the nursery in September 2023 and our daughter has settled very well. She fondly talks about her friends and the lovely team that look after her.
Our daughter enjoys a wide range of play and learning activities when at nursery. As a result, her imagination, interests and speech have flourished.

We are very pleased with the food options, outdoor space and staff.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you for taking the time to write such a lovely review, the team will be delighted to read it, thanks again from the team at Thrive.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from S S (Mother of Child) published on 9 February 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I couldn’t recommend Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten enough. My son loves the nursery. He runs in, in the morning. He loves all the staff in the baby room. He has come on so much from attending nursery and is a little social butterfly, he loves exploring the outdoor space and going on nature walks with his teachers. He is very comfortable and secure at nursery and I couldn’t be happier with how great the staff are with him, and how happy he is in the setting.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

Thank you for taking the time to write a lovely review of our service, the team are always so proud to read reviews from our happy families, thank you, The Thrive team.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Michelle M (Mother of Child) published on 24 January 2024 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Both my children attend the nursery and I cannot praise the nursery enough.
Both children love coming here. My son runs into the nursery each morning and my 1 year old daughter puts her hands out to her key worker every morning. It’s so lovely that I know they both enjoy coming here.
They both love and trust the staff that take great care in getting to know them.
My son has made friends I think he will love being friends with for a long time.

I would recommend the nursery to anyone.

Reply from Jenni McDougall, Operations Project Manager at Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

A glowing review thank you so much, it was a pleasure to read how happy your children are at Musselburgh NK, thank you again, The Thrive team.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from O H (Father of Child) published on 5 December 2022 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Fantastic staff in the baby room although they are under a lot of pressure because of the lack of staff.

The higher management seems to be disconnected from the day-to-day challenges met by the nursery. Invoices received are sometimes wrong. It could improve if investments could be made in staffing.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from A B (Mother of Child) published on 8 September 2022 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I would seriously reconsider sending your child here. Just read their latest inspectorate report and you will understand. I have removed my 3-year-old daughter from this nursery after reading the report due to the fact she was not settling in for months. After having read the report it makes sense why she wasn't. We are very upset and disappointed at what we have had to experience, more so for our daughter.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
No Rating
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money

Child Vacancies

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

News (0) & Events (0)

News

There are no news items for Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten.

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events for Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten.

Awards / Recognitions (5)

Meet the Team (2)

Louise Smith Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2025
Louise Smith

Louise has a wealth of experience in early years and in business, Louise and Amy work together to ensure the smooth operation of the nursery.

Amy Simpson Job Title: Deputy Manager Joined: 2021
Amy Simpson

Amy supports the team in the smooth running of the nursery.

Frequently Asked Questions about Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten

What is the Age Range of Children that Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten accepts?

Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten Open?

Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten 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 Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten have capacity for?

Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten has capacity for a total of 100 Children.

How far is Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten to the centre of Musselburgh?

0.3 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 Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Musselburgh Nature Kindergarten has an Enhanced Service - more info.