Nottingham City Hospital visiting times daily for most wards, with flexibility for critical or palliative patients.
The hospital allows up to two visitors at a time, though you may swap during visiting hours.
Planning a hospital visit can sometimes be confusing especially if you’re unsure about visitor limits, mask rules, or whether children are permitted.
This guide provides a clear, up-to-date breakdown of Nottingham City Hospital visiting times, special ward policies, and key information to make your visit as smooth as possible.
General Nottingham City Hospital Visiting Times

Nottingham City Hospital visiting times welcomes visitors daily, with standard visiting hours set between 1 pm and 8 pm across most wards. During this time, patients may have up to two visitors at a time, although swapping is allowed, meaning families and friends can rotate during the day.
This arrangement ensures patients receive the support they need while keeping ward environments calm and manageable.
For those with relatives who are critically ill or receiving end-of-life care, the hospital offers flexible visiting arrangements. Families can speak directly with the nurse in charge to arrange longer or more frequent visits, ensuring patients receive comfort from their loved ones when it matters most.
It is also worth noting that Nottingham City Hospital does not have an Accident & Emergency department. This means visits are typically calmer compared with larger hospitals such as Queen’s Medical Centre, but visiting policies remain consistent across Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH).
By following these guidelines, visitors can ensure their time at the hospital is both safe and supportive, contributing to the wellbeing of patients.
Trent Cardiac Centre & CICU Visiting Rules

While most wards at Nottingham City Hospital follow the standard 1 pm – 8 pm visiting schedule, the Trent Cardiac Centre has a slightly different policy. Here, visiting hours are split into two sessions:
- 9:30 am – 12 pm
- 2:30 pm – 8:30 pm
On Tuesdays, there is no morning visiting session, allowing clinical staff to carry out treatments and reviews without interruption.
The Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) does not have fixed visiting times. However, relatives are encouraged to visit before 9:30 pm where possible, to allow patients to rest overnight. Nurses and doctors may restrict visitor numbers at any given time, especially if urgent care is required, but exceptions are made for compassionate circumstances.
If you are visiting a patient in the Cardiac Centre or CICU, it is always advisable to check directly with the ward before arriving. This helps avoid disappointment and ensures you are aware of any temporary changes to visiting hours.
Visitor Guidance & Restrictions at Nottingham City Hospital

In line with NUH policies, visitors must follow certain rules to protect patients, staff, and other guests. These include:
- Do not visit if unwell – Anyone experiencing cold, flu, diarrhoea, or vomiting symptoms should avoid the hospital until at least 48 hours symptom-free.
- Mask-wearing – While generally optional, masks must be worn in certain high-risk areas. Look for signs at ward entrances.
- Children – Visitors under the age of five are not usually permitted, unless agreed with the Ward Manager for exceptional reasons. Older children must be supervised at all times.
- Personal belongings – Keep bags and coats to a minimum. Do not sit on patient beds, and avoid bringing large items onto the ward.
- Eating and drinking – Visitors are asked not to consume food or drink at the bedside, to help keep wards clean and safe.
- Toilet facilities – Patient toilets are strictly for patient use. Visitors should use designated public toilets within the hospital.
By respecting these rules, visitors help maintain a safe and supportive environment for recovery. Hospital staff are always available to answer questions and provide guidance on ward-specific rules.
FAQ Nottingham City Hospital Visiting Times
Can I Swap Visitors During Visiting Hours?
Yes. While only two visitors are allowed at a time, families and friends may swap throughout the day. This means larger groups can take turns visiting the patient without breaching hospital rules.
Are Children Allowed to Visit Nottingham City Hospital?
Children under five are not generally permitted, except in exceptional cases agreed by the Ward Manager. This policy ensures both patient safety and child wellbeing.
What Should I Do If I Need to Visit Outside Standard Times?
If your loved one is in critical or palliative care, special visiting arrangements may be made. Speak with the nurse in charge of the ward, who can provide approval for extended visits.
Conclusion
Nottingham City Hospital visiting times are designed to balance patient care with the comfort of family support. For most wards, the hours are 1 pm – 8 pm, while the Trent Cardiac Centre follows a split schedule of 9:30 am – 12 pm and 2:30 pm – 8:30 pm, excluding Tuesday mornings.
The CICU has no fixed times, though visits before 9:30 pm are encouraged.
By following NUH guidance on masks, illness, and children visiting, families can ensure their visits remain safe and supportive. If in doubt, always contact the ward before attending.
For more details on local hospitals, check HospitalVisitTimes.com guide and explore practical tips for hospital visits across Nottingham.
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