Committed to Caring for Children and Families

Tortoise & Hare Childcare is a family-run, OFSTED registered, home-based childcare setting in the heart of Guildford, Surrey. We offer a warm, welcoming and secure environment where children can feel at home, learn through play and develop at their own pace.

Our setting is run by long-term partners Martyn and Francesca, who bring a wealth of real-life childcare experience. Between us, we have spent a lifetime caring for and supporting children – from raising our own, to looking after children within our extended families, as well as caring for looked-after children. Our professional backgrounds in the public sector have further strengthened our understanding of safeguarding, child development and the importance of nurturing, consistent care.

Tortoise & Hare Childcare is based in our own home, creating a cosy, familiar atmosphere that helps children feel relaxed and secure. Our much-loved six-year-old labradoodle, Barney, is very much part of our family and our setting. Having grown up around children, Barney is gentle, calm and a wonderful companion to the children in our care. He particularly enjoys running and playing in the park and often adds an extra sense of fun and comfort to the day, always under close supervision and with appropriate hygiene measures in place.

The home nursery has been thoughtfully adapted for childcare. Safety is our highest priority, and we have clear measures in place to ensure children are protected at all times. The home is carpeted throughout, providing a softer, quieter and more comfortable environment for play and rest. We offer a wide variety of age-appropriate toys, books and puzzles to encourage curiosity, creativity and learning, whether your child enjoys imaginative play, problem solving or quiet reading.

Our fully stocked kitchen allows us to provide a range of nutritious snacks, supporting healthy eating habits from an early age. We are happy to work with parents and carers to accommodate dietary needs and preferences wherever possible.

We also have access to our own vehicle, enabling us to organise safe and enjoyable days out. Trips to local parks, libraries and community activities help children to explore the world around them, build confidence and develop social skills beyond the home environment.

At Tortoise & Hare Childcare, our aim is to provide a caring, homely and stimulating setting where children are valued as individuals, and where parents can feel confident that their child is happy, safe and well looked after. We look forward to welcoming you and your child into our extended family.