About Lister Hospital
Lister Hospital is the main acute general hospital serving Stevenage, Hertfordshire, with **566 beds** and full inpatient and outpatient facilities (www.cqc.org.uk ). It was designed as a new district general hospital for Stevenage and surrounding areas in the postwar era. The hospital admitted its first patients on 18 September 1972 and was officially opened in November 1972 (Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother declared it open) (discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk ) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). In 2014, a £150 million modernization project was completed, refocusing Lister as the Trust’s specialist centre for emergency and inpatient care for east and north Hertfordshire and south Bedfordshire (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Today Lister provides nearly all major specialties – including accident & emergency (open 24/7), surgery, medicine, maternity and paediatrics – plus regional services in areas like urology (including **robotic surgery**) and renal dialysis (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). The hospital campus is modern with a distinctive 11-storey tower block and multiple wings, and it remains a major landmark and hub of healthcare for the community. Staffing and innovations over the years (for example, introducing advanced surgical technology) make Lister an important centre in the local healthcare system, and its history and ongoing development (such as the recent hospital entrance redevelopment) are points of local pride.
Events and Community Activities
While Lister Hospital is not an entertainment venue, it regularly hosts **community and charity events** tied to the healthcare trust. Annual fundraisers and open days let families and staff come together – for example, Lister celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022 with a free open day (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). That event featured behind-the-scenes tours, therapy dogs, a vintage ambulance, interactive medical simulations and refreshments for visitors (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). The hospital’s charity also organizes high-profile challenges, like the **Lister Abseil** where volunteers rappel down the 11-storey tower to raise funds; in one recent year over £43,000 was raised by about 100 abseilers (www.enhhcharity.org.uk ). Other Trust-supported events include fun runs, charity golf days and community health fairs. Staff and local groups might put on awareness events or fundraising sales in the plaza or conference areas. Visitors should check the East & North Hertfordshire NHS Trust or hospital charity event calendar for any special programs. Note that most events at Lister (open days, charity fundraisers, etc.) are free to attend or donation-based – there are no admission “tickets” or commercial performances as you’d find in a theatre. Instead, events are announced publicly, often on the hospital’s website and local news, with registration done on arrival or via the Trust’s charity hotline.
Appointments and Visiting
As an NHS hospital, most patient visits to Lister are by appointment or referral, not “ticketed.” Outpatient appointments (specialist clinics, tests or procedures) are arranged through NHS referral: typically your GP or A&E doctor refers you on. There is no general walk-in clinic (apart from A&E and the Urgent Treatment Centre) – all outpatient clinics require prior booking. For emergencies or urgent problems, Lister has a **24-hour Emergency Department (A&E)** (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ), where you can simply walk in without an appointment. Patients with non-life-threatening injuries or minor illnesses (cuts, sprains, coughs, etc.) are directed to the **Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC)** on-site (open daily 8 am–10 pm, last admissions 8 pm) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). The UTC mostly takes adults 16+ as walk-ins; children over 1 year can also be treated via a paediatric stream. So in practice: if it’s a life-threatening emergency dial 999 or attend A&E (open 24/7) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ); if it’s urgent but not critical, come to the UTC between 8 am and 8 pm (last entry 8 pm) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ); for all other care, follow your GP’s instructions and attend your booked appointment. There is no “box office” – you don’t buy tickets. Instead, visit the hospital or call its main switchboard (01438 314333) for direction. NHS patients do not pay for medical appointments at Lister.
Hospital Layout
Lister’s campus covers multiple buildings joined by covered walkways. The centrepiece is the **orange-colored Tower Block**, rising 11 floors. Many general wards and critical care units (ICU) are on upper floors of this main tower (ICU is on level 4) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Branching off are several wings, often referred to by colors or names. For example, the **Strathmore Wing (Green Zone)** houses stroke, surgery and elderly care units (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ), while the **Pink Zone** contains women’s and maternity services (including the Diamond Jubilee Maternity Unit) and now also the LIFE Gallery art corridor (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). The **Purple Zone** includes outpatient treatment centres and rehab. Departments like X-ray, labs and therapy are on lower floors or basement levels in adjoining blocks. The main **Entrance/Reception** is at ground level of the Tower block off Coreys Mill Lane (Orange Zone). Visitors arriving there will find the main information desk and a waiting lounge; corridors and signs clearly direct to departments. Key path-finding: the emergency department is on the ground floor of the tower (immediately accessible from the front car park); outpatient clinics and diagnostic services are on ground or first floors; wards are up the lifts from the main lobby. There is a reasonably straightforward colour-coded map posted (orange, green, etc.), and lifts connecting ground through all ward levels (www.accessable.co.uk ). In practical terms, the “best seats” are the main waiting areas by reception and clinics. Side rooms or chairs can be limited, so patients in wheelchairs or with mobility issues may want to arrive a little early to find seating. Keep in mind gurneys and trolleys in corridors can limit space. Overall, the hospital is organised logically: follow signs to the right zone (e.g. Orange for general wards, Green for surgery/stroke, Pink for maternity, etc.) to reach the department you need.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Lister Hospital is at Coreys Mill Lane, Stevenage SG1 4AB (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). It’s easy to reach by car via the A1(M). From London or Cambridge directions, use J8 of the A1(M) and take the A602 towards Stevenage. Follow signs to the hospital and turn off onto Coreys Mill Lane (there are landmarks and road signs). Public bus and taxi stops are immediately in front of the hospital.
By Car: A **multi-storey car park** (on the right as you approach the hospital) provides about 636 spaces (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). The car park uses automatic number-plate recognition (ANPR) so no ticket is issued; on exit you simply pay by entering your plate number at the pay machine. Rates are roughly £4 for the first hour, rising to about £12 for a full day (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ) (note: the first 20 minutes are always free (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ), useful for drop-offs). Blue Badge (disabled) holders have about 64 reserved spaces on higher levels. Poor mobility spaces (adjacent to lifts with automatic doors) are on level 6 (www.accessable.co.uk ) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Blue Badge drivers park free – just display and scan your badge when leaving (www.accessable.co.uk ) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Weekly/monthly parking passes are available for frequent visitors (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ), and there are concessions (e.g. free parking after hours for parents staying with sick children) explained at the pay desks. On weekdays after 7:30 pm until 8 am, two vehicles (max) can be parked free for parents of an inpatient child (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). By Bus: Two shelters on Coreys Mill Lane (one for each direction) are right outside the hospital. Local and regional buses serve these stops – for example, routes 55, 80, 300/301, 386, 390, 635, SB8 and SB9 all stop at Lister (www.accessable.co.uk ). The stops are sheltered with benches, though space for wheelchairs is somewhat limited (www.accessable.co.uk ). Bus timetables can be checked via the local providers (Arriva etc.); the routes connect Stevenage’s town centre, Hitchin, Welwyn Garden City and surrounding villages, so it’s direct from many nearby towns. By Train: The nearest station is **Stevenage Railway Station**, about 1.8 miles (roughly a 35–40 minute flat walk) south of Lister (www.accessable.co.uk ). Stevenage is on the East Coast Main Line (Great Northern, LNER) and Thameslink; trains from London King’s Cross or Blackfriars run frequently (journey ~25 min). From the station you can catch a taxi or a short bus ride (buses 310/301 or a hospital shuttle on request) up to the hospital. There is also a quick bus ride to Stevenage Bus Station with many connections. Drop-off/Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare vehicles can pull up at the main entrance drop-off zone (outside the multi-storey ramp) to let off patients and visitors. Drop-off in the MSCP is allowed (20 min free), as directed by signage. The hospital driveway is two-way and patrolled by staff, so guests can be delivered directly to the entrance (these short-term stops are free for a few minutes).
Inside the Hospital
When you enter Lister, you’ll pass through a secure but open main lobby into a spacious central corridor. There is a large reception/info desk and waiting area near the entrance (staffed by volunteers and PALS advisors (www.accessable.co.uk )). Throughout the building, wide corridors and clear signage guide you to major departments. Key points:
Security & Check-In: There is no airport-style security – visitors can walk in after passing the front desk. Check in at your destination ward or clinic by giving your name/appointment to unit clerks. In critical units like ICU, visitors register at a desk before entering. Identification (like a photo ID or NHS number) may be requested for patient records. In paediatric or maternity areas, staff may ask you to log visitors for safety. Food & Drink: On-site options include a **Peabody café** near the main entrance offering hot drinks, sandwiches and snacks, plus vending machines. A small **Co-op store** (open daytime) sells drinks, sandwiches, fruit and basic groceries. (From late 2025 the redeveloped main entrance will add a full Costa Coffee and a second Peabody with freshly cooked meals (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ).) There are water fountains on most floors. For sit-down meals, the hospital canteen is primarily for staff (closed to public), so most visitors eat in the café or just outside on benches. Mobile food vendors and ice cream vans occasionally appear on the plaza in summer. Amenities: The hospital has public restrooms on every floor, including accessible (wide-door) toilets with grab rails (www.accessable.co.uk ). Near reception and lifts you’ll see directions to gender-neutral toilets too. A **WHSmith newsagent and gift shop** is located along the main corridor (next to PALS office) – it sells newspapers, snacks, toiletries and cards. A clothing/gift “Stock Shop” is also on site (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). There is a small chapel/quiet room for reflection, plus a children’s play corner in the Maternity wing. Free (visitor) Wi-Fi is offered; instructions are posted near reception. Mobile phone signal is generally good inside, and charging stations are available by the lifts in the car park lobby (drawn by USB sockets). Special Features: Lister is known for its **LIFE Gallery** (Lister Initiative For the Enhancement of the Environment): a bright art gallery corridor in the Pink Zone featuring local artwork for patients and staff to enjoy (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). You might find therapy dogs on certain days (the hospital runs a visiting dog program to comfort patients). Digital screens near reception announce news, wayfinding and queue information (e.g., which surgery lane to wait at). Overall, the atmosphere is clinical but friendly – staff in green and blue scrubs, patients on beds or in chairs, and a moderately busy ambience. Some wards can feel busy/hasty, while others (like Oncology or Endoscopy) are more quiet. Ventilation and lighting are modern (bright, white-light LEDs).
Nearby Amenities and Planning Tips
Lister Hospital is on the northwest edge of Stevenage town. Within a mile (a 15–20-minute walk) there are **restaurants and cafes** along Shephall Road and in town. For example, family pubs and eateries such as The Snooty Fox or The Grove flare nearby, and several takeaway shops (fish & chips, Indian, kebabs) are within a short walk. The town centre (at the southern end of Shephall Road) has more choice: both familiar chains (Costa, Greggs, Marks & Spencer foodhall) and local pubs/restaurants. If you prefer a table service sit-down meal, it’s easy to walk (or take a quick bus) to these central areas. www.booking.com ) – all about 1–2 miles from the hospital. The historic Cromwell House Hotel is about 0.8 miles away (www.booking.com ). Guests often stay in Stevenage and take a taxi or bus to Lister. When to Arrive: If you have an appointment or need to see a patient, arrive at least 15–30 minutes early. Allow time for parking/payments or finding the right ward. If visiting an inpatient, check with the ward for any special visiting rules. Late arrivals can often park in the MSCP (the first 20 mins are free) and still make their slot. Late-Night Return: Even though A&E is 24/7, note that public transit is limited late at night. The last buses from Stevenage to Hitchin or within Stevenage run around midnight; after that you’ll need a taxi or rideshare. Taxis can pick up at the hospital entrance 24/7. The multi-storey car park is accessible round-the-clock from inside the hospital.
What Makes This Hospital Special
Lister Hospital stands out for its long history, community role and unique features. As one of the first purpose-built NHS hospitals of Stevenage New Town, it represents a key piece of local heritage (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Although its architecture is typical 1970s healthcare style (concrete and glass), it has been continually updated – for example, the new front entrance (soon under construction) will add shops and a modern plaza (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). The hospital has also earned a reputation through its specialized services: the renal and urology units serve the wider region, and Lister was among the first NHS hospitals to use robotic surgery for complicated procedures (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Lister’s tall tower is a local landmark (used each spring for the charity abseil) (www.enhhcharity.org.uk ), and patients often mention the friendly “therapy dog” program and colourful LIFE art gallery as memorable aspects of visiting. Every Christmas and summer, staff organize festive concerts and markets in the plaza or atrium. Community legends include the hospital’s shuttle bus (“The Little Lister Bus”) that used to drive patients to town, and staff proudly recall special cases (like recruiting a baby where the expecting parents arrived and delivered safely in ED).www.cqc.org.uk ), the staff have focused on improvements, so visitor feedback is actively solicited (via the PALS office or “How are we doing?” kiosks). In short, visitors appreciate Lister for its comprehensive care, community spirit, and ongoing evolution – it’s far more than a generic hospital, but a familiar, integral part of Stevenage life.
Visitor Tips and Additional Info
Accessibility: The hospital is step-free wherever needed. All main entrances, lifts and wheelchair routes are accessible. Wheelchairs are available free from reception if needed. There are ramps and wide double doors (often held open on wards), and lifts that connect all floors of the tower and main wings (www.accessable.co.uk ). Accessible toilets on every level handle wheelchair users (www.accessable.co.uk ). Blue Badge parking spaces are plentiful and free of charge (www.accessable.co.uk ) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Guide dog owners and those with service animals will find water bowls around reception. BSL (British Sign Language) interpreters and materials in large-print or different languages are available on request (www.accessable.co.uk ). If you have any special needs, speak to a volunteer at the entrance or call ahead via PALS (details listed below).
What to Bring / Not to Bring: Bring photo ID and your appointment letter or referral slip if you have one. If you’re visiting a patient, bring the patient’s details (NHS number if available) or just their name. Carers can bring a valid parking exemption pass for a patient’s frequent appointments. No special dress code is required – business-casual or hospital-friendly clothing is fine. Don’t bring sharp objects or weapons (they will be confiscated for safety), and avoid bringing pets. Snacks, books, a sweater or charger may be handy for long waits. (Fresh flowers or strong perfumes are discouraged on medical wards, especially ICU/CCU.) Photography: As at any hospital, taking photos of people or clinical areas is not allowed without permission – it’s best not to photograph the wards or patients.
Common Pitfalls: The most common mistake is for non-urgent cases to go to A&E. If your issue is minor (e.g. minor sore throat, rash, sprain), check NHS 111 or use the NHS App first; you may be directed to the UTC or a GP instead of A&E (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Another tip: double-check the department name before you travel. Some subspecialty clinics (like day-case surgery or oncology) are in a separate building or wing rather than in “Casualty” or main wards. Use the hospital map (available at reception) or ask a receptionist for directions. Lastly, traffic and the one-way system on Coreys Mill Lane can be tricky – allow a bit of extra time in the morning rush.
COVID/Flu Policy: As of late 2023, Lister requires all visitors to wear masks in certain clinical areas (like infectious disease wards) and encourages sanitizing hands at every entrance. If you have fever or respiratory symptoms, you may be asked to delay your visit or wear extra protective kit. [**Note:** policies can change; see the NHS Trust website for any current advice before coming.]
How do I book an appointment at Lister Hospital?
Most appointments at Lister (e.g. specialist clinics, scans) are booked via NHS referral. Generally you need a note from your GP or a letter from a doctor. If you think you need to visit Lister, ask your GP to refer you to the appropriate Lister department. Urgent problems are handled via 999 or at A&E. For minor injuries or illnesses, you can use Lister’s walk-in Urgent Treatment Centre (8am–10pm) (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Always bring any referral paperwork or NHS number with you when attending.
What are the visiting hours at Lister Hospital?
Visiting times depend on the ward. Most general wards allow visitors daily from about 8:00am until 10:00pm (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Intensive Care (CCU/ICU) typically restricts visits to around 2:00–7:00pm (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Children’s and maternity units often have separate policies. To avoid confusion, ask the ward clerk or check the hospital’s website for your specific unit’s hours. In all cases, the limit is usually a couple of visitors at a time, and staff may pause visiting during emergency care.
Is parking available at Lister Hospital, and how much does it cost?
Yes – a large multi-storey car park (636 spaces, including disabled bays) is on site (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Parking is paid by time. The first 20 minutes are free for drop-off. Beyond that, current charges are roughly £3.80 for 20min–1hr, up to £12.30 for a full day (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ) (prices adjust each September). Blue Badge holders park free (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ) (www.accessable.co.uk ) – just display your badge and scan it at exit. Weekly/monthly discounted passes are sold at the parking office for frequent visitors (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Always take note of your car registration and use the ANPR payment machines before leaving.
What buses or trains go to Lister Hospital?
Several local bus routes stop directly outside the hospital on Coreys Mill Lane (www.accessable.co.uk ). Key routes include No. 55, 80, 300/301, 386, 390, 635, SB8 and SB9. Check the timetable with Arriva or local providers. The nearest train station is Stevenage (East Coast Main Line). It’s about a 1.8-mile walk (30–40 minutes) from station to Lister (www.accessable.co.uk ). From Stevenage you can catch a local bus or a taxi to the hospital. No London-style underground (tube) services here – just trains at Stevenage and buses.
Are there any cafes or shops inside Lister Hospital?
Yes. In the main reception area there is a Peabody café selling coffee, sandwiches, fruit and snacks. A Co-op convenience store on the ground floor sells drinks, sandwiches, snacks and fresh food items. You’ll also find vending machines with drinks and healthy bars. For newspapers, toiletries and gifts, there is a WHSmith newsagent on the main corridor (open daytime). The hospital’s gift shop (the “Stock Shop”) sells cards and small gifts (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). There are no full sit-down restaurants, so consider the cafeteria or nearby town options for meals.
Can I smoke or vape at Lister Hospital?
No. The East and North Hertfordshire Trust has a smoke-free policy . As of April 2025, smoking (including e-cigarettes/vaping) is prohibited anywhere on hospital grounds (www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk ). Signs are posted, and staff will ask you to extinguish cigarettes. Vaporizers or cigarettes should not be brought to the hospital. If you need help quitting, the hospital can refer you to local stop-smoking services.
Is Lister Hospital wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. All public areas of Lister Hospital have wheelchair access. Entrance ramps and automatic doors lead into the main foyer. The multi-storey car park has reserved wheelchair bays close to the lifts (www.accessable.co.uk ). Inside, wide doors and corridors connect the wards. There are lifts to all floors of the main tower and most wings (www.accessable.co.uk ). Accessible restrooms (with grab bars and extra space) are on every floor (www.accessable.co.uk ). If you need help, hospital volunteers can provide a wheelchair at reception, and attendants can assist with lifts.
What should I bring for an inpatient visit?
Bring the patient’s bed/location details if you have them. Carry your own photo ID (frequently checked at wards). For longer stays, family often bring toiletries, comfortable clothes and any special food (observing dietary rules). Avoid valuables – keep cash/cards in a safe place; the hospital can’t be responsible for personal items. A list of current medications and any referral letters is also helpful if you’re seeing a consultant. Visitors might bring a jacket or sweater (ward temperatures can vary) and a small gift (flowers are sometimes allowed except ICU). Always check the ward’s rules; for example, critical care areas may restrict certain items like electronics for infection control.
Are children allowed to visit patients at Lister?
Yes, but with conditions. In general wards and waiting rooms, children are welcome if supervised by an adult. Paediatric wards (Bluebell Unit) are child-friendly by design. However, in areas like ICU or some adult wards, children under about 12 may be asked to stay in the main reception rather than enter the ward. Always check with the nurse or ward clerk beforehand. In maternity, one birth partner (18+) is allowed 24/7 (www.hospitalvisittimes.com ), plus limited visiting after birth (2 people at a time, above age 16). No under-16s are usually allowed in critical care or theatres. In summary: ask staff about age rules on arrival, and bring something quiet to occupy children (books etc).
Where is the nearest hotel to Lister Hospital?
There are no hotels on the hospital site, but several in nearby Stevenage town (about 1–2 miles away). The closest is the historic Cromwell Hotel (~0.8 mi) (www.booking.com ). Others include Holiday Inn Express, Premier Inn or Travelodge in Stevenage (1.7–2 mi) (www.booking.com ). Many staff and visitors stay in town and take a short taxi or bus ride to the hospital. These hotels offer standard amenities (breakfast, Wi-Fi) and shuttle services to Stevenage station, which connects by train to London and Cambridge. There are no on-site accommodations for relatives at the hospital itself. If you need lodging, book early for convenience.
What is the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rating of Lister Hospital?
In its latest inspection, Lister Hospital was rated as “Requires Improvement ” overall (www.cqc.org.uk ). This reflects ongoing efforts to address previous issues. Several domains (like ‘Caring’ and ‘Effective’) were rated good, while others needed work. Note that CQC ratings examine very strict criteria and anyone attending or working in the hospital should not be alarmed. The hospital continues to implement improvements and the Trust publishes updates on progress. CQC reports are public and can be viewed on the CQC website, but there is no impact on your ability to visit or receive care.
If I arrive after visiting hours, what do I do?
If you arrive to visit an inpatient after the official visiting window for that ward, the ward staff will usually ask you to wait (often in a relatives’ area or reception) until visiting resumes. Each ward manages late visitors case-by-case. For emergencies (e.g. if your patient’s condition deteriorates), contact the ward phone or switchboard for assistance. Otherwise, plan visits for normal hours. Remember, loved ones can hang around outside or in the main lobby until visiting reopens. If you need to drop something off outside hours, ask a passer-by or security (if available) to deliver it in.
