St James'S University Hospital

St James’s University Hospital Leeds: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

St James’s University Hospital in Leeds, often affectionately called “Jimmy’s,” stands as a testament to both medical innovation and the rich heritage of the city. Established in the 19th century during Leeds’ industrial expansion, the hospital has grown from a modest infirmary to one of the UK’s largest and most advanced teaching hospitals. Affiliated with the University of Leeds, it is renowned for pioneering medical achievements, such as the UK’s first kidney transplant in 1967, and for hosting one of Europe’s largest colorectal surgery units. The hospital today blends clinical excellence, architectural history, and a vital community role.

This comprehensive guide provides essential information for anyone planning a visit—whether you are supporting a patient, exploring local history, or simply curious. We cover the hospital’s historical background, practical visiting details, accessibility provisions, visitor amenities, and nearby cultural highlights. For further details, always refer to the hospital’s official website and trusted local resources (Thackray Museum of Medicine).

The Wellcome Trust Brenner Building at St James's University Hospital in Leeds

St James's University Hospital Chancellors Wing Leeds exterior view

St James's University Hospital Clinical Sciences Building in Leeds

Main entrance of St James's University Hospital in Leeds during daytime

St James's University Hospital Gledhow Wing Leeds exterior view

St James's University Hospital Lincoln Wing in Leeds exterior view

St James's University Hospital Leeds Institute of Oncology building exterior

St James's University Hospital, Leeds, historic former workhouse building

St James Hospital Block Northwest of Chapel in black and white

Hospital Overview: History and Heritage
Visiting Hours and Entry Information
Accessibility and Parking
Campus Layout and Key Facilities
Visitor Amenities and Services
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical Tips for Visitors
Useful Links and Resources
Conclusion

Hospital Overview: History and Heritage

St James’s University Hospital traces its origins to the late 19th century, established to meet the healthcare needs of Leeds’ rapidly growing population. Initially focused on treating infectious diseases and industrial accidents, it became part of the NHS in 1948 and soon emerged as a center of medical leadership.

Key milestones include:

1967: First kidney transplant performed at the hospital.
Colorectal Surgery: Home to the John Goligher Colorectal Surgery Unit, one of Europe’s largest.
Research and Teaching: Major teaching hospital, closely linked with the University of Leeds, supporting advanced research and specialist clinics.

St James’s is also notable for its blend of historic and modern architecture, reflecting its evolution and ongoing investment in patient care and innovation.

Visiting Hours and Entry Information

Visiting Hours

General Wards: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily.
Exceptions: Some departments, such as critical care, maternity, and pediatrics, may have different policies. Always check with the relevant ward or consult the official visiting times page.

Entry and Tickets

Admission: There is no entry fee or ticket required—St James’s is an operational NHS hospital. Public access is primarily for patients, staff, and approved visitors.
Exhibitions: For those interested in medical history, the adjacent Thackray Museum of Medicine offers ticketed public access.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Hospital Tours: Regular public guided tours are not available. Occasionally, heritage open days or special educational events are organized.
Nearby Museums: For guided tours and interactive exhibits on medical history, the Thackray Museum of Medicine is highly recommended.

Accessibility and Parking

Accessibility

St James’s is committed to providing a fully accessible environment:

Entrances: Step-free access at all main entrances.
Facilities: Accessible toilets, lifts on every floor, and adapted changing facilities.
Assistance: Staff are trained to support visitors with additional needs (AccessAble Guide).

Parking

Main Car Park: A large multi-storey car park opposite the Bexley Wing (624 spaces).
Disabled Parking: Spaces on level 0, with a drop-off zone at the main entrance for those with limited mobility (Patient Hotel Parking Info).
Payment: ‘Pay as you Leave’ (cash only); credit cards are not accepted.
Public Transport: Multiple bus routes serve the hospital, with real-time information at stops. The hospital is well connected to Leeds city centre (Campus Map PDF).

Campus Layout and Key Facilities

Location

Located on Beckett Street in Harehills (postcode LS9 7TF), the campus is managed by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Building Overview

Gledhow Wing: Respiratory care, ante-natal, breast screening, renal services.
Chancellor’s Wing: Surgical and acute medical assessment, outpatients.
Bexley Wing: Leeds Cancer Centre, radiotherapy, imaging, patient hotel, art gallery.
Lincoln Wing: Maternity and delivery services.
Beckett Wing: Immunology, diabetes, outpatient services.
Robert Ogden Building: Cancer support.
Fielding House: Clinical psychology.

All buildings are interconnected with clear signage, color-coded directions, and staff assistance available (Campus Map PDF).

Visitor Amenities and Services

Food and Beverage

On-Site Cafes: Dining rooms, Costa Coffee, Union House Coffee, Amigo’s, and multiple retail outlets (including Boots Pharmacy and Marks & Spencer).
Seating: Available throughout public spaces and corridors.

Patient Hotel

Located on Bexley Wing Level 8, the patient hotel provides 20 rooms with city views for self-caring patients attending long-distance treatments. Nursing care is not provided; bookings are made via clinical teams (Patient Hotel Info).

Toilets and Changing Facilities

Accessible and adapted toilets are located in main receptions and near outpatient departments (AccessAble Guide).

Spiritual and Quiet Spaces

The hospital offers a chapel, multi-faith center, and chapel of rest, all open to visitors and clearly signposted.

Wi-Fi and Technology

Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Highlights

Thackray Museum of Medicine: Adjacent to the hospital, offering immersive exhibits on the history of medicine (Thackray Museum of Medicine).
Leeds City Centre: Museums, shopping, and heritage sites are a short bus or taxi ride away.
Neighborhoods: Burmantofts and Harehills provide a glimpse into local community life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours at St James’s University Hospital?
A: General hours are 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Some wards have exceptions—check with the department or online.

Q: Is there an entry fee to visit?
A: No, the hospital is an NHS facility with free entry for patients and authorized visitors.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not routinely, but special events may occur. Visit the Thackray Museum of Medicine for guided tours.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Numerous bus routes serve the hospital from Leeds city centre.

Q: Is the hospital accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes—there are step-free entrances, lifts, accessible toilets, and assistance available (AccessAble Guide).

Q: Can I bring someone to an outpatient appointment?
A: One accompanying person is permitted per outpatient.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Use the multi-storey car park near Bexley Wing; payment is cash only.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Plan Ahead: Check your ward/building location before arrival.
Arrive Early: Parking can be limited; bring change for the car park.
Use Public Transport: To avoid parking issues.
Accessibility: Contact reception for assistance if you have special needs.
Refreshments: Food and drink options are available on-site.
Quiet Spaces: Utilize the chapel or multi-faith room for reflection.
Stay Updated: Download the Audiala app for navigation and visitor info.

Useful Links and Resources

Conclusion

St James’s University Hospital is much more than a healthcare provider—it is a living symbol of Leeds’ rich medical heritage and ongoing commitment to innovation. With comprehensive visitor facilities, strong accessibility provisions, and proximity to fascinating cultural sites like the Thackray Museum of Medicine, your visit can be both smooth and enriching.

Plan ahead, explore local attractions, and use digital resources such as the Audiala app to make the most of your experience. Whether you are visiting for medical reasons or to learn about the city’s historic institutions, St James’s University Hospital welcomes you.