Queen Elizabeth Hospital Visiting Times – Hours & Rules 2025

Planning a visit to a loved one in hospital? Queen Elizabeth Hospital visiting times are essential to know in advance to avoid inconvenience and ensure a smooth experience.

Visiting policies can vary depending on the hospital location, ward type, and patient condition, making it crucial to check the latest updates before heading to the hospital.

Understanding the correct timings and restrictions helps visitors provide emotional support while respecting patient recovery needs.

Whether visiting for a routine check-in or an urgent situation, being aware of Queen Elizabeth Hospital visiting times ensures a well-prepared and hassle-free visit.

Queen Elizabeth Hospital Visiting Times

Visiting hours at Queen Elizabeth Hospital vary depending on the hospital location, ward type, and patient condition. Understanding these guidelines ensures that visitors can provide support while respecting patient recovery needs.

Below is a detailed breakdown of general visiting times, special considerations for specific wards, and evening or emergency visit policies.

General Visiting Times and Restrictions

Queen Elizabeth Hospital visiting times typically follow a structured schedule to balance patient care with family support. These hours are set by hospital administration and may vary based on general wards, patient visitation rules, and public health concerns.

• Standard visiting hours in most Queen Elizabeth Hospitals across the UK range from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
• General wards often allow two visitors per patient at a time to prevent overcrowding.
• Weekend visiting follows the same timing as weekdays, although it is advisable to check with the hospital for any adjustments.
• Some hospitals enforce protected mealtimes, during which visitors may be asked to step out so patients can eat without interruptions.
• Visitors may need to adhere to infection control measures, including wearing face masks in certain wards.

Source: qehkl.nhs.uk

It is always best to check with the specific hospital location before planning a visit, as restrictions may change due to seasonal flu outbreaks or other public health concerns.

Special Visiting Times for Specific Wards

Some areas within Queen Elizabeth Hospital have stricter visiting regulations due to the nature of patient care, particularly in maternity wards, children’s wards, and intensive care units (ICU).

• Maternity Ward:
  • Birth partners are usually allowed 24-hour access.
  • General visitors are often limited to 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with restrictions on young children.
  • Siblings may be allowed to visit under supervision.
• Children’s Ward:
  • Parents or guardians can stay overnight where facilities allow.
  • Visiting hours for extended family members are usually 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM, but may vary.
• ICU and High Dependency Units (HDU):
  • Visits are more restricted to prevent patient exhaustion.
  • Typically, visitors are allowed between 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM in most ICU settings.
  • Only one or two visitors are permitted at a time, and visits should be brief.

Specialist wards have specific rules, so checking directly with the ward before visiting is highly recommended.

Evening and Emergency Visits

Certain situations require flexibility in visiting hours, especially for emergency visits or end-of-life care.

• Evening visits beyond standard hours may be granted for close family members, subject to ward approval.
• Emergency visits for critically ill patients are allowed at any time, but visitors must inform the ward in advance.
• End-of-life care patients often have unlimited visitor access, ensuring loved ones can be present during critical moments.

For those needing to visit outside of regular hours, it is best to contact the hospital reception or specific ward to arrange access.

Continue: Barnsley Hospital Visiting Times

Hospital Visitor Policies at Queen Elizabeth

Each Queen Elizabeth Hospital follows specific hospital visitor rules designed to ensure patient safety, infection control, and a comfortable hospital environment. These hospital policies outline who can visit, visiting restrictions, and safety measures that must be followed.

Understanding these guidelines helps visitors comply with patient safety guidelines and maintain a positive experience for everyone.

General Hospital Visitor Rules

Visitors must adhere to the hospital policy to maintain a safe and respectful environment for patients and staff. The following rules apply across most Queen Elizabeth Hospitals in the UK:

• Visitors must be in good health. Anyone experiencing symptoms of flu, cough, cold, diarrhoea, or other infectious illnesses should avoid visiting.
• Hand hygiene is mandatory. Visitors must wash their hands or use hand sanitiser upon entering and leaving the hospital.
• Limit on the number of visitors. Most wards allow a maximum of two visitors per patient at a time to reduce overcrowding.
• Children visitors may be restricted. Some hospitals have age restrictions for young visitors, particularly in high-risk wards such as ICU or maternity.
• Noise levels must be kept low. Loud conversations or the use of mobile phones in patient areas should be minimised.
• Photography and video recording are prohibited. Taking pictures or videos inside the hospital is not allowed to protect patient privacy.

These general rules apply to all visitors unless specific arrangements have been made with the ward staff.

COVID-19 and Infection Control Policies

Due to ongoing infection control measures, some Queen Elizabeth Hospitals may have additional visitor restrictions to protect vulnerable patients.

• Face masks may be required in certain high-risk areas, such as ICU, cancer wards, and respiratory units.
• Hand sanitising stations are placed at entrances, and all visitors must use them before and after visits.
• COVID-19 testing may be required for visitors to some wards, depending on current NHS guidelines.
• Social distancing measures may still be in effect in waiting areas or crowded wards.

It is always advisable to check hospital visitor rules before visiting, as policies may change based on public health updates.

Exceptional Circumstances and Special Permissions

Some patients require special visiting arrangements, particularly in cases of critical illness, end-of-life care, or long-term hospital stays.

• End-of-life patients can receive unrestricted visits, allowing families to spend meaningful time together.
• Paediatric patients may have both parents or guardians present at any time.
• Maternity ward visitors are often limited to the birth partner plus one additional visitor at a time.
• Patients with disabilities or special needs may have a designated caregiver or support person permitted at all times.

Visitors needing special access permissions should contact the hospital’s patient liaison team or ward staff to arrange visits.

See More: Halton Hospital Visiting Times

Directions and Parking at Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Finding the right route and parking options when visiting Queen Elizabeth Hospital is essential for a smooth and stress-free experience. Whether travelling by public transport, private vehicle, or taxi, knowing the available hospital visitor parking and transport services will help in planning your visit efficiently.

How to Get to Queen Elizabeth Hospital by Public Transport

For visitors using public transport, various services provide easy access to Queen Elizabeth Hospital locations across the UK.

• By Bus: Several bus routes serve the hospital, with stops directly outside or within walking distance. Check local bus timetables for the most convenient route.
• By Train: The nearest train station will vary depending on the hospital location. Many Queen Elizabeth Hospitals are accessible by rail, with bus or taxi connections available from the station.
• By Underground (London Only): For Queen Elizabeth Hospital in London, the closest DLR station is Woolwich Arsenal, with buses available from the station to the hospital entrance.
• By Taxi: Taxis are available at designated pick-up/drop-off points outside hospital entrances. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt also provide convenient transport options.

Checking the hospital website or Transport for London (TfL) journey planner before your visit is recommended to confirm real-time schedules and route changes.

Hospital Visitor Parking Options

For visitors arriving by car, hospital visitor parking is available at most Queen Elizabeth Hospitals, but spaces may be limited during peak hours.

• On-Site Parking: Some locations offer short-stay and long-stay car parks, with charges applicable based on duration.
• Blue Badge Parking: Dedicated disabled parking bays are available near main entrances for Blue Badge holders.
• Drop-Off Points: Designated drop-off areas allow quick patient drop-offs before parking elsewhere.
• Motorcycle and Bicycle Parking: Secure bike racks and motorcycle bays are available for visitors arriving on two wheels.

Transport Services for Patients and Visitors

For those requiring assistance with transport, various hospital transport services are available:

• Patient Transport Service (PTS): Available for eligible patients with mobility issues who require non-emergency transport.
• Hospital Shuttle Services: Some Queen Elizabeth Hospitals provide shuttle buses between hospital departments, car parks, and nearby transport hubs.
• Community Transport Options: Local charities or NHS-supported transport services may offer free or low-cost travel for patients with medical needs.

Since parking charges and transport services may vary by hospital location, checking the hospital website or contacting visitor services before travelling is highly recommended.

Try Reading: Scunthorpe Hospital Visiting Times

Contact Information for Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Having the correct hospital contact details is essential for visitors needing assistance with visitor enquiries, appointment confirmations, or general hospital information. Each Queen Elizabeth Hospital in the UK has its own visitor support team to handle inquiries related to visiting hours, ward access, and special requests.

Main Hospital Contact Details

Each Queen Elizabeth Hospital operates under a different NHS trust, meaning contact numbers may vary by location. Below are the main contact numbers for key hospital locations:

For up-to-date hospital contact details, visitors are encouraged to check the official NHS website or the hospital’s patient services page.

Visitor Enquiries and Assistance

For those requiring assistance during their visit, the following services are available:

• Ward Contact Information: Each ward has a direct line for relatives to check on patient well-being and visiting schedules.
• Reception and Information Desk: Located at main hospital entrances, these desks provide directions and general visitor support.
• Interpreter Services: Available for visitors who require language assistance or British Sign Language (BSL) support.
• Lost and Found Office: For retrieving lost belongings during hospital visits.

Emergency and Out-of-Hours Support

For urgent assistance outside of standard visiting hours, the hospital emergency contact lines can provide support:

• Emergency Admissions & A&E: Directs visitors to the appropriate department in case of a medical emergency.
• Security Desk: Available 24/7 for lost property, visitor access issues, and general safety concerns.
• On-Call Visitor Liaison Officers: Some hospitals provide after-hours visitor support for critical care or emergency visits.

If in doubt, calling the main hospital reception number will help direct inquiries to the correct department.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Visitors often have common concerns regarding Queen Elizabeth Hospital visiting times, hospital visitor rules, and accessibility. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help ensure a smooth and hassle-free visit.

1. What are the standard visiting hours at Queen Elizabeth Hospital?

Most Queen Elizabeth Hospitals allow visitors between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM, but times may vary by ward. Intensive care, maternity, and children’s wards often have different schedules. It is recommended to check with the hospital directly before visiting.

2. Are children allowed to visit patients at Queen Elizabeth Hospital?

Yes, but some wards may have age restrictions for young visitors. Paediatric wards and maternity wards may allow siblings, but ICU and high-risk wards may restrict children under 12 years old. Always check hospital policies before bringing children along.

3. Is there a limit on the number of visitors per patient?

Most hospitals allow a maximum of two visitors per patient at a time to maintain a calm and comfortable environment for recovery. Special exceptions may be made for end-of-life care or critical patients.

4. Can I visit outside of standard hours in an emergency?

Yes, in certain cases. If a patient is in critical condition or receiving palliative care, family members may be granted extended or unrestricted visiting access. Contact the ward staff or visitor liaison office for special permissions.

For any additional questions, visitors should contact the hospital reception or check the official NHS website for location-specific guidelines.

Please Read: Aintree hospital Visiting Times

Being aware of Queen Elizabeth Hospital visiting times helps ensure a seamless visit while respecting hospital policies and patient care needs. Checking the latest visiting hours, ward-specific guidelines, and visitor policies beforehand can prevent unnecessary delays or restrictions.

If this information has been helpful, feel free to share it with others who may need it. For more updates on hospital access, visitor guidelines, and healthcare services, explore other articles on www.hospitalvisittimes.com or leave a comment with any questions or experiences you’d like to share.