Taylor started his career as captain of the football academy at Accrington and Rossendale College, also representing the England College side.[3][4] He also spent some time on trial with Bury and Scunthorpe United.[3] In the summer of 2011, Taylor spent time on trial at Football League Two side Accrington Stanley for pre-season after being recommended by former Stanley coach Paul Lodge.[3] In August 2011 after a successful trial, Taylor joined Stanley permanently initially on non-contract terms.[5] He made his professional debut for the club in the same month, coming on as a substitute for Kurtis Guthrie in the 2–0 defeat to Scunthorpe United in the Football League Cup.[3][6] Later in August, Taylor signed a six-month professional contract with the club, opting to turn down the chance to attend university to study a sports degree.[3] His league debut came in a 2–1 defeat to Southend United. His first start and final appearance for Stanley came in a 1–0 win over Bradford City. In January 2012, Taylor was released from his contract by mutual consent.[7] In February 2012, Taylor joined Northern Premier League Division One North side Clitheroe, making his debut in a 2–0 defeat to Ossett Town.[8] He made a total of ten appearances for Clitheroe with his final appearance coming in a defeat to AFC Fylde in April 2012.[9] His spell at Clitheroe was short and Taylor joined North West Counties Football League First Division side Nelson in November 2012.[10] Taylor impressed in his first season with the club as Nelson finished in mid-table. He signed a new one-year contract in July 2013, turning down a number of clubs higher up the football pyramid.[11] In August 2013, after a bright start to the season he suffered a fractured fibula and was out of action for five months.[12] In January 2014, after making a full recovery, he returned to first team training.[13] He finished the season with seven appearances and one goal as Nelson were crowned champions and gained promotion to the NWCFL Premier Division.[14] In May 2014, Taylor committed himself to Nelson for another season.[15]