Northwick Park Hospital

Northwick Park Hospital Visiting Hours, Visitor Information, and Practical Guide (London)

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Northwick Park Hospital, located on Watford Road in the London Borough of Brent, is a leading healthcare institution and a site of notable historical and cultural interest in northwest London. Since opening in 1970 as part of the post-war expansion of the National Health Service, the hospital has grown into one of London’s busiest district general hospitals, providing a full spectrum of medical services, including A&E, maternity, surgery, and specialist rehabilitation. Managed by the London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, Northwick Park Hospital is also a hub for pioneering clinical research and education, housing both the Griffin Institute and a cutting-edge Clinical Research Facility.

Visitors benefit from a well-designed campus with accessibility features, convenient transport connections, and a range of on-site amenities. The hospital’s distinctive modular architecture—including a rare paternoster lift—attracts those interested in 20th-century design, with guided tours available by appointment. Northwick Park Hospital also plays a crucial role in the local community, supporting regeneration projects such as Northwick Parkside, which integrates healthcare, housing, and community facilities. The hospital is easily reached via Northwick Park tube station (Metropolitan Line) and numerous bus routes, with limited on-site parking. Nearby attractions include Northwick Park estate, Wembley Stadium, and Harrow’s historic sites.

This guide provides essential information for visitors: details on visiting hours and access, historical context, healthcare services, transport, community engagement, and practical tips. For up-to-date visitor guidance, refer to the official NHS hospital page (NHS UK) and the London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust website (LNWH NHS).

Introduction
History and Cultural Significance
Visiting Northwick Park Hospital
Getting There: Transport and Parking
Specialist Services and Medical Research
Community Engagement and Regeneration
Nearby Attractions and Accommodation
Practical Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

History and Cultural Significance

Founded in 1970, Northwick Park Hospital was designed to provide modern, centralized healthcare to northwest London’s growing population. The hospital is renowned for its innovative modular architecture by John Weeks, and for its role in advancing clinical research and education. The adjacent Griffin Institute (formerly Northwick Park Institute for Medical Research) continues to drive medical innovation, while the hospital’s architecture—including a rare paternoster lift—remains a subject of interest for design enthusiasts.

Northwick Park Hospital has hosted royal visits and been the site of significant medical milestones, such as the UK’s first artificial heart trial in 1986. Its integration with St Mark’s Hospital has established it as a national center for gastrointestinal care and research, further enhancing its reputation for excellence.

Visiting Northwick Park Hospital

Visiting Hours and Policies

General Visiting Hours: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily. These can vary by department or during public health emergencies. Always check the official visiting guide or with the relevant ward.
Special Circumstances: Carers and parents may be permitted outside standard hours by arrangement. Maternity and neonatal units have tailored policies for partners and parents.
Entry: No tickets are required for general hospital visits. For special events or guided tours (by appointment), information is available via the hospital’s events page or community outreach office.

Accessibility and Support Services

Northwick Park Hospital is committed to accessibility, providing:

Step-free entrances, lifts, and accessible toilets throughout.
Designated disabled parking spaces.
Free care bags for patients with learning disabilities or autism.
Interpretation and translation services.
Staff trained to support patients with additional needs.
AccessAble guide for detailed accessibility information.

On-site Facilities

Food and Refreshments: Main cafeteria, coffee shops, vending machines, and pleasant outdoor park space.
Shops and Essentials: Small shop near the main entrance (newspapers, toiletries), ATMs available.
Wi-Fi: Free throughout the hospital.

Getting There: Transport and Parking

By Tube: Northwick Park Station (Metropolitan Line) is a five-minute walk. Kenton Station (Bakerloo Line and Overground) is about 15 minutes away (Imperial College London).
By Bus: Routes H9, H10, H14, 186, 223, and others stop outside the hospital (Transport for London).
By Car: Located at Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 3UJ. On-site parking is available but limited; ongoing roadworks may cause delays (LNWH NHS).
Electric Vehicle Charging: Available in the hospital car park.
Directions: Clear signage from main roads; reception staff can assist with directions inside.

Specialist Services and Medical Research

Clinical Research Facility (CRF): Opened in 2021, supporting over 150 research studies annually (LNWH Research).
Griffin Institute: Renowned for surgical training and innovation (Griffin Institute).
Specialist Units: Rehabilitation (neurology, stroke, brain injury), musculoskeletal therapy, speech and language therapy, and psychological support (LNWH Charity).
Mental Health Services: Enhanced Observations Team, psychiatric liaison, and wards for older adults (CNWL NHS).

Community Engagement and Regeneration

Northwick Park Hospital is central to the Northwick Park Regeneration Project, which will deliver over 1,600 new homes, commercial spaces, and community facilities. The development emphasizes affordable housing, infrastructure, and greater integration between the hospital and the local community (Harrow Times). The hospital’s charity funds patient support programs and supports local outreach (LNWH Charity).

Nearby Attractions and Accommodation

Northwick Park: Large public park with lakes, gardens, golf, and cricket (Londontopia).
Wembley Stadium: Major events and sports.
Harrow Arts Centre: Theatre, exhibitions, and cinema.
Headstone Manor Museum: Local history in a medieval manor house.
University of Westminster Harrow Campus: Nearby for academic visitors.
Accommodation: Hotels and guesthouses in Harrow and Wembley; book ahead during busy periods.

Practical Visitor Tips

Confirm ward location and visiting hours before arrival (hospital website).
Allow extra travel time, especially during roadworks or peak hours.
Bring water, snacks, and reading material for longer visits.
Respect privacy: photography and recording are prohibited in patient areas.
Utilize public transport if possible due to limited parking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours at Northwick Park Hospital?
A: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily; always check ward-specific times (LNWH NHS Visiting Guidance).

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, but spaces are limited. Allow extra time for parking and check for roadworks (LNWH NHS).

Q: Are the hospital and its facilities accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free access, lifts, and support services; see the AccessAble guide.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Occasionally, by appointment for educational or architectural interest. Contact hospital administration for details.

Q: Can I visit as a tourist?
A: The hospital is not a tourist attraction, but architectural tours are sometimes available. The adjacent park and local sites are open to all.

Q: How can I learn about clinical trials?
A: Visit the hospital’s research website or speak to the Clinical Research Facility (LNWH NHS).

Conclusion

Northwick Park Hospital stands as a cornerstone of healthcare and a vibrant community institution in northwest London. Its legacy in clinical innovation, education, and regeneration, coupled with thoughtful visitor amenities and strong transport links, ensures a positive experience for patients and visitors alike. For the latest updates, visiting guidance, or to explore more about the hospital’s services and history, visit the LNWH NHS website and the official NHS UK hospital page.