Whipps Cross University Hospital

Whipps Cross University Hospital Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information in London

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Whipps Cross University Hospital, located in Leytonstone, East London, stands as a crucial healthcare provider and a significant historical landmark. Established in 1903 as the West Ham Union Infirmary, it has evolved over more than a century into a modern medical centre while preserving its heritage and deep community ties. This guide presents comprehensive visitor information, explores the hospital’s history and architecture, and highlights nearby attractions, ensuring a meaningful visit whether you are a patient, local resident, or history enthusiast (Barts Charity; National Archives).

Introduction to Whipps Cross University Hospital
Historical Overview
Visiting Whipps Cross: Practical Information
Architectural Highlights and Art Collection
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Special Events and Community Engagement
FAQs
Conclusion
References

Whipps Cross University Hospital: A Historic and Modern Institution

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development (1903–1930s)

Founded in 1903 as the West Ham Union Infirmary, Whipps Cross was built to serve East London’s growing population, offering essential care to the area’s most vulnerable residents. Early expansion included the establishment of a nurse training school, reflecting a commitment to professional healthcare from the outset (Barts Charity).

Throughout both World Wars, Whipps Cross served as a military hospital. Notably, soldiers left graffiti on the hospital walls, details of which have been preserved through the “Whipps Cross Voices” project, providing a unique glimpse into its wartime legacy (Barts Charity).

Postwar Expansion and NHS Integration

With the formation of the NHS in 1948, Whipps Cross became part of the national healthcare system and underwent extensive development, adding new wards, modern operating theatres, and specialist departments to meet the needs of the local community (National Archives).

Medical Education and Research

The hospital is a renowned centre for medical education. The Whipps Cross Medical Education Centre supports training for doctors and allied health professionals, furthering the hospital’s reputation for clinical excellence (Whipps Cross Medical Education Centre).

Visiting Whipps Cross University Hospital: Practical Information

Visiting Hours and Tours

General Wards: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily
Maternity and Paediatric Wards: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
Intensive Care and Other Restricted Wards: Limited visiting times for patient safety; check with the ward in advance.

Note: Always confirm visiting arrangements on the hospital’s website or by phone, as policies may change due to health and safety requirements.

Tours and Archives: While public tours are not routinely available, special visits to the hospital’s archives or art collection can be arranged by appointment (Art UK).

Accessibility

Whipps Cross University Hospital is fully accessible:

Wheelchair-accessible entrances and adapted toilets
Low-floor buses serving all routes
Blue Badge parking bays onsite
Volunteer buggy service for mobility support
Cycle parking and dockless bike share options (AccessAble)

Directions and Transport

By Public Transport

Tube: Leytonstone station (Central Line) – 15-minute walk or direct W15 bus
Train: Wood Street station (Liverpool Street to Chingford line) – half a mile away, with W16 and W15 buses available
Bus: Routes 20, 56, 230, 257, 357, W12, W15, W19, and N55 night bus

By Car

Four pay-and-display car parks with approx. 400 spaces for visitors and 48 Blue Badge bays
New multi-storey car park featuring electric vehicle charging
Drop-off zones and motorcycle parking available

By Bicycle

Ample cycle parking and inclusion on local cycle routes

(Travel Info PDF)

Architectural Highlights and Art Collection

Whipps Cross blends Edwardian architecture—including a Renaissance-inspired main entrance and symmetrical ward blocks—with state-of-the-art medical facilities. The hospital is home to a notable art collection curated by Vital Arts, accessible by appointment, which adds vibrancy to the clinical environment (Art UK).

Community, Culture, and Notable Features

Whipps Cross serves a diverse population of approximately 350,000, reflecting the multicultural character of Waltham Forest (Waltham Forest Echo). The hospital’s workforce represents a broad range of nationalities, and community events foster ongoing engagement.

Educational Excellence

Since 1921, Whipps Cross has pioneered medical training, including one of the UK’s first schools for male nurses. The Medical Education Centre offers library services and study spaces (Hospital Visiting Times).

Medical Achievements

First Hyperbaric Unit in the UK (1968): Specialized in treating decompression sickness (Resp.NET)
Margaret Centre: Palliative care hub since 1987
Plane Tree Centre: Day surgery and outpatient services

Amenities

Shops and cafes in main outpatient areas
Restaurant open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Volunteer-run library trolley and buggy service for mobility support
Cash points and post boxes onsite (Barts Health Private Care)

Nearby Attractions

Whipps Cross is adjacent to Epping Forest, offering scenic walks and outdoor activities. Leytonstone and Walthamstow feature lively markets, eateries, and historic sites. The hospital’s vision of “a hospital in a garden and a garden in a hospital” is reflected in its green spaces and connection to the local environment (Waltham Forest Borough).

Special Events and Community Engagement

The hospital regularly hosts health fairs, educational open days, and community outreach programs. For updates on upcoming events, check the hospital’s and council’s official websites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours at Whipps Cross University Hospital?
A: General visiting is from 2:00 PM–8:00 PM. Some wards have different or restricted hours; always check in advance.

Q: Do I need a ticket to visit?
A: No, admission is free and no ticket is required for general visits.

Q: Is the hospital wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the site is fully accessible and offers additional support services.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography is restricted to protect privacy; permission is required for any recording.

Q: Are special tours or archive visits available?
A: Yes, by appointment—contact the hospital or Barts Charity for details.

Future Developments

Whipps Cross is set for major redevelopment between 2032 and 2038, including a new hospital building, new homes, and expanded green spaces, strengthening its role in the community (Barts Health NHS Trust; Waltham Forest Echo).

Call to Action

For the latest visitor information, historical content, and updates on redevelopment, download the Audiala app and follow Whipps Cross University Hospital, Barts Charity, and the London Borough of Waltham Forest on social media. Explore the “Whipps Cross Voices” project online to discover remarkable oral histories and digital archives.