18/04/2022
Navigating Your Way to Norwich University Hospital
The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) is a vital healthcare hub serving the city and surrounding areas. Whether you're a patient, a visitor, or a concerned relative, knowing the most efficient and convenient ways to reach the hospital is paramount. This guide will walk you through the various transportation options available, focusing on accessibility without a private car, and providing detailed information to ensure your journey is as smooth as possible.

From Norwich Bus Station to NNUH
For those arriving in Norwich via the bus station, the journey to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is straightforward and economical. The distance is approximately 5 miles. The most recommended method of travel without a car is by bus. The journey typically takes around 22 minutes and the fare is a modest £1 to £3, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers. Several bus routes serve the hospital, ensuring frequent and reliable connections.
Reaching NNUH from Norwich Railway Station
Norwich railway station is another key arrival point for many. If you're disembarking here, you have several excellent public transport choices to get to NNUH. The First 26 bus is a particularly convenient route, originating directly from Norwich Rail Station. This service travels through the heart of the city centre, continues along Earlham Road, passes the University of East Anglia (UEA), and directly serves the NNUH. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a direct and hassle-free connection.
Understanding Bus Routes and Ticketing
Norwich boasts an extensive bus network, with several operators providing services to NNUH. Beyond the First 26, other notable routes include:
- First 11: Connects Sprowston, the City Centre, and NNUH.
- First 21: Serves Old Catton, the City Centre, Bowthorpe, and NNUH.
- Konect 3: Offers services from Watton, Carbrooke, Hingham, Barnham Broom, Barford, and NNUH.
- Konect 4: Routes from Swanton Morley, Dereham, Yaxham, Mattishall, East Tuddenham, Honingham, Easton, and NNUH.
- Konect 9: Links Wymondham, Hethersett, Little Melton, and NNUH.
For general public transport enquiries, including live updates and route planning, the Traveline website (www.traveline.info) is an invaluable resource. You can also call their enquiry line on 0871 200 22 33 (available daily from 08:00 to 20:00). For specific information on Konect buses, you can telephone 01362 851210 or visit their official website.
To make travel even more flexible and cost-effective, consider the Fusion bus ticket. This ticket allows unlimited travel on services operated by Anglian Coaches, First, Konect, Norfolk Green, Sanders, Simonds, and Norse within a roughly ten-mile radius of Norwich. It's valid all day, from 05:00 to 02:00 the following morning, and can even be passed on to others. Details of the areas covered by this ticket can be found on the Norfolk County Council website.
First Eastern Counties divides Norwich into five fare zones, with the hospital situated in zone 4. Fares are calculated based on the number of zones travelled. A wide variety of ticket types are available to suit different needs. For any queries regarding fares, comments, complaints, or lost property, you can contact First Group directly on 08456 020121 or visit their website.
Alternative Travel Options
By Bike
For the more active traveller, cycling is a highly encouraged and sustainable option. NNUH features a dedicated cycle path network around the hospital grounds. You'll find ample cycle parking facilities located in the plaza area, conveniently situated next to the East and West Outpatient entrances. Smaller cycle racks are also available outside the Inpatient entrances to the East and West Atria. Importantly, there is no charge for parking your bicycle at the hospital.
By Taxi
Taxis provide a comfortable and direct door-to-door service to NNUH. They are readily available from Norwich railway station, city centre taxi ranks, and throughout the wider Norwich area. For your convenience, freephone buttons are installed around the hospital and at the main entrances, allowing you to easily connect with local taxi companies. When ordering a taxi, it is crucial to provide clear and precise pick-up instructions to ensure the driver arrives at the correct location.
A taxi journey from the city centre to the hospital typically takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
By Car or Motorcycle
If you choose to travel by car, NNUH provides parking facilities, however, please be aware that parking cannot be guaranteed during peak times. Detailed information regarding car parking, including any concessions, can be found through the hospital's official channels.
Specific driving directions are provided for those approaching from major routes:
- From the A47: Exit the A47 at the junction for the B1108, following signs for Norwich city centre and the Hospital. At the junction of the B1108 with Colney Lane, turn right and proceed straight down Colney Lane, passing through the Norwich Research Park.
- From the A11: Leave the A11 at the first roundabout encountered after the Thickthorn A47/A11 junction. Turn left at the Cringleford roundabout and follow the road signs directing you to the Hospital.
- From Norwich and North Norfolk: Follow road signs for the University and Hospital (B1108). Continue past the UEA on your left and turn left onto Colney Lane, following signs for the Norwich Research Park and the Hospital.
- From Norwich City Centre: Depart the city centre following signs for the A11 Thetford. Once on the A11, follow the Hospital road signs to Cringleford. Turn right at the Cringleford roundabout and continue to follow the road signs for the Hospital.
For motorcyclists, there are 80 dedicated parking spaces situated on either side of the staff car park (Car Park E). While these spaces are not covered, they are equipped with secured ring bars for chaining your motorcycle. Parking for motorcycles is free of charge.

Assistance with Travel Costs
Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital understands that travel costs can be a concern for some patients. If you are not eligible for specific patient transport services, you may qualify for reimbursement of travel expenses, particularly if you are receiving certain benefits. To ascertain your eligibility, it is advisable to contact your local Social Security Office or the hospital's Patient Services Department on 01603 289769.
The hospital can reimburse car mileage at the current rate of 10p per mile and can also refund bus and train fares in full upon production of your tickets. Please note that taxi fares are generally not reimbursed.
Furthermore, in situations where a patient has arrived at Accident & Emergency via ambulance or with a friend who has since departed, and they find themselves without funds for their return journey, the hospital can provide a loan. This loan is intended to cover the cost of public transport, enabling the patient to travel home safely, provided they are medically fit to do so independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How far is Norwich Bus Station from Norwich University Hospital?
A1: The distance is approximately 5 miles.
Q2: What is the best way to travel from Norwich Bus Station to NNUH without a car?
A2: Taking a bus is the most efficient method, taking about 22 minutes and costing between £1 and £3.
Q3: Which bus route should I take from Norwich Railway Station to NNUH?
A3: The First 26 bus is highly recommended as it directly serves the hospital after travelling through the city centre and past the UEA.
Q4: Can I cycle to NNUH?
A4: Yes, NNUH has dedicated cycle paths and ample, free cycle parking facilities available.
Q5: Is there assistance available for travel costs to the hospital?
A5: Yes, under certain circumstances and if you are receiving specific benefits, you may be eligible for reimbursement of bus, train fares, or car mileage. Loans for public transport home are also available in emergencies.
By familiarising yourself with these transport options, your journey to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital can be a stress-free experience, allowing you to focus on what matters most.
If you want to read more articles similar to Norwich Hospital Travel Guide, you can visit the Transport category.
