Bristol Royal Infirmary Hospital Visiting Times are essential for anyone planning to visit a loved one in care. Visiting is generally allowed at any time on most adult inpatient wards, with a limit of two visitors per bedside.
However, specialist units like ICU, Cardiology, or Hepatology have more defined time slots and access restrictions that visitors must follow.
Planning a hospital visit can feel overwhelming especially with differing rules across wards. Are children allowed? Can you stay late? Do hours change on weekends? In this complete guide, we answer those questions and more, with the most up-to-date visiting times and policies at Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI).
Whether you’re seeing a cardiac patient or attending the ICU, we’ll help you feel confident, prepared, and respectful of the hospital’s guidelines.
Let’s explore the BRI visitor schedule and key dos and don’ts to ensure your visit is smooth and stress-free.
Bristol Royal Infirmary Hospital Visiting Times
Visitors are welcome at Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI) at any time of day on most adult inpatient wards. This open visiting policy reflects the hospital’s commitment to patient wellbeing and family-centred care.
However, a maximum of two visitors per patient is typically allowed at the bedside, and ward staff may ask visitors to step away briefly during clinical procedures or sensitive moments.
This flexible visiting arrangement aims to reduce stress for both patients and relatives. By allowing extended hours, BRI helps families stay closely connected to their loved ones without needing to adhere to restrictive schedules.
Visitors are encouraged to check with the specific ward before arrival to confirm any temporary limitations, especially during periods of infection control or medical emergencies.
If you’re visiting during late hours, consider other patients maintain quiet, avoid large groups, and refrain from using mobile phones loudly. Staff discretion applies at all times, especially in multi-bed bays.
Specialist Wards Visiting Hours
While most adult wards at BRI offer open visiting, some specialist units have stricter time slots to ensure medical routines are uninterrupted and patient recovery is prioritised. These include departments like Hepatology, Cardiology, and the Coronary Care Unit (CCU), each with specific hours and visitor limitations.
These tailored visiting schedules balance patient safety with family involvement and are especially important for high-dependency areas. Always check the ward’s dedicated information page or contact the nurse in charge if unsure.
Hepatology Ward
For visitors to Hepatology Ward A900, the official visiting hours are 11:00 am to 7:00 pm daily. This schedule provides a consistent window for family and friends while supporting the ward’s need for clinical assessments, rest periods, and protected mealtimes.
Visitors should be mindful of noise levels and the clinical sensitivity of patients undergoing liver treatment. As with most wards at BRI, two visitors per patient is the maximum allowed at a time. It’s advisable to stagger visits when coming in groups, and children may only be allowed at the discretion of the ward manager.
Avoid visiting during patient rest hours or shift changes, and ensure you sanitise hands upon entry and exit particularly important on specialist wards like Hepatology where patients may be immunocompromised.
Cardiology Ward
Visiting hours on Cardiology Ward C705, part of the Bristol Heart Institute within BRI, are from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm daily. This schedule is designed to allow adequate time for both medical assessments and family interaction, while preserving essential rest and recovery periods.
Unlike general wards, mealtimes are protected, meaning no visitors are allowed during breakfast (7:30–8:30 am), lunch (12:00–1:00 pm), or dinner (5:30–6:30 pm).
This policy ensures patients receive proper nutrition and a peaceful environment during meals, which are often critical for those recovering from cardiac surgery or treatment.
Only two visitors per patient are allowed at any one time, and due to the nature of cardiac care, children may not be suitable visitors unless specifically arranged with staff.
Noise, perfumes, and mobile phone use should be minimised, especially around heart patients sensitive to stimulation or with medical equipment in use.
Parking near the Bristol Heart Institute is limited, so visitors are encouraged to use public transport or nearby parking facilities and allow extra time for arrival.
Coronary Care Unit
The Coronary Care Unit (CCU) at Bristol Royal Infirmary enforces stricter visiting hours due to the intensive monitoring and care required by cardiac patients.
Visiting is permitted daily during two time windows: 2:00–3:00 pm and 6:30–8:30 pm. These limited hours are designed to minimise disruptions to patient care and allow critical treatments to proceed uninterrupted.
Each patient is allowed a maximum of two visitors at a time, and the unit strongly discourages visits from children under 11, unless in exceptional circumstances and agreed upon in advance with clinical staff. There are also no flowers or plants allowed on the ward due to infection control and allergy risks.
Seating is limited in the CCU waiting area, and visitors are advised to arrive on time, avoid peak periods, and maintain a quiet environment. Respect for patient privacy is essential, and mobile phone usage may be restricted depending on medical equipment in use.
To ensure a smooth visit, always contact the unit beforehand, particularly if you’re travelling from afar or visiting a critically ill patient. The staff can advise on the best time and prepare for your arrival.
ICU Visiting Times at Bristol Royal Infirmary
The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Bristol Royal Infirmary maintains a structured yet compassionate visiting policy. Visiting is permitted daily from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, with clearly defined protected mealtimes during which visits are not allowed: 7:00–8:00 am, 12:00–1:00 pm, and 5:00–6:00 pm.
These periods are reserved for patient rest and nutrition, ensuring uninterrupted recovery.
Due to the critical nature of care provided in ICU, visitors must adhere strictly to hygiene procedures, including hand sanitising upon entry and exit, and wearing masks or aprons when required.
A maximum of two visitors per patient is allowed at one time to prevent crowding and maintain calm in what can be a high-stress environment.
ICU staff may sometimes request visitors to step out for clinical procedures or in emergencies. There is a dedicated family room nearby for comfort and privacy, and visitors are encouraged to use this space when waiting.
Children are generally not permitted in ICU, but exceptions may be made at the discretion of the ward manager. The unit also provides a visitor reception desk, open 8:00 am to 8:00 pm on weekdays, and 8:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekends, where families can get updates or arrange visits.
If your loved one is in the ICU, consider calling ahead to coordinate your visit and receive personalised guidance.
Visiting Rules for Children’s Hospital and Paediatric Units
For families visiting children admitted to the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children (closely affiliated with BRI but on a nearby site), the visiting rules are slightly different to accommodate both young patients and the emotional needs of their families.
One parent or carer is usually allowed to stay overnight with the child. This ensures that young patients receive consistent emotional support during their hospital stay.
However, between 8:00 pm and 8:00 am, only one adult is permitted at the bedside this is a safeguarding and clinical policy designed to ensure patient rest and ward safety.
During the day, the unit allows up to two visitors at a time, which can include siblings or close relatives. All visitors should be in good health, and it’s especially important to avoid visiting if experiencing symptoms of colds, flu, or stomach bugs. For high-dependency or isolation cases, additional restrictions may apply.
Ward staff can advise families on what to bring, appropriate visiting etiquette, and the suitability of visits for very young siblings. To ensure a supportive experience, the hospital encourages communication between families and care teams, especially during longer stays.
Hospital-Wide Visitor Policies and Etiquette
Regardless of the ward or unit, all visitors to Bristol Royal Infirmary are expected to follow a consistent set of hospital-wide policies to ensure safety, dignity, and comfort for all patients and staff. These rules are particularly important in a clinical environment where infection control and patient wellbeing are top priorities.
Infection Control Guidelines
Visitors must wash or sanitise hands before and after entering any ward. In certain areas, especially where patients are immunocompromised or during flu season, face masks or gowns may be required. If you feel unwell even with mild symptoms it’s best to postpone your visit until you’re fully recovered.
What Not to Bring
Items such as flowers, plants, and homemade food are often restricted on many wards due to allergy risks, infection control, and dietary safety.
Check with ward staff before bringing in gifts or outside food. Strong perfumes or scented products should also be avoided as they may affect patients with respiratory issues.
Behaviour and Mobile Phones
Maintain quiet voices and avoid unnecessary disruptions. Mobile phones should be switched to silent or used respectfully, especially around medical equipment. Some areas may restrict phone use entirely.
Accessibility and Parking
The hospital has limited on-site parking, especially near the Bristol Heart Institute. Visitors are advised to use public transport where possible, or nearby multi-storey car parks. Accessible facilities, including lifts and disabled toilets, are available throughout the hospital.
By respecting these policies, you help create a supportive healing environment for everyone involved in care.
Contacting the Ward Before Visiting
While Bristol Royal Infirmary provides general visiting guidelines, each ward may adjust its policies based on patient needs, staff capacity, or public health alerts.
That’s why it’s strongly recommended to contact the ward directly before visiting, especially if you’re unsure about timings, visitor limits, or special circumstances.
- Some units like ICU, CCU, and oncology may restrict visits during outbreaks or clinical surges.
- Wards may have protected times for treatment or rest that aren’t published online.
- Visiting rules for children or vulnerable individuals often require advance approval.
- You can check in advance about parking, drop-off arrangements, and any mobility access you may need.
The main hospital switchboard is available via the University Hospitals Bristol NHS Trust website, where you can request to be transferred to any specific ward or unit. Alternatively, ward contact numbers are often listed on appointment letters, patient information booklets, or the hospital’s “Contact Us” page.
If you’re planning a long or group visit, calling ahead allows staff to make arrangements that ensure safety and privacy for all patients involved.
Taking this simple step helps everyone involved from the patient to the medical team have a smoother, more coordinated visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ICU visiting hours at Bristol Royal Infirmary?
ICU visiting hours are from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm daily. Visits are not allowed during protected meal times: 7:00–8:00 am, 12:00–1:00 pm, and 5:00–6:00 pm. Only two visitors are allowed at a time.
Can children visit patients in BRI?
Children may visit general wards at staff discretion, but they are not usually permitted in specialist units such as ICU and CCU. Always check with the ward beforehand.
Are visiting hours the same on weekends?
Yes, most wards maintain consistent visiting times on weekends, though some units may have reduced staffing. Always call ahead to confirm weekend arrangements.
What should I bring when visiting a hospital patient?
Keep it simple: bring essentials like a book or small treat. Avoid flowers, homemade food, or strong fragrances, as these may be restricted on many wards.
Is there a limit on the number of visitors?
Yes. The hospital generally allows a maximum of two visitors per patient at a time, across all wards. Group visits should be staggered to avoid crowding.
Conclusion
Knowing the correct Bristol Royal Infirmary Hospital Visiting Times can make a huge difference to your visit ensuring you arrive at the right time, respect ward rules, and make the most of your time with your loved one.
While general wards offer open visiting, specialist units like the ICU and CCU operate with clear time blocks and additional requirements.
Remember: policies can change based on health alerts or operational needs. Always check with the ward directly before visiting, especially for intensive care or paediatric patients.
Being a considerate visitor doesn’t just support your loved one it helps staff provide the best care possible in a calm, respectful environment.
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