Our trust values
University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust

Travelling to our hospitals

Royal Bournemouth Hospital

Poole Hospital

Christchurch Hospital


Sustainable travel

Our Trust is committed to encouraging greener transport and recommends that you consider public transport as your first option where possible, especially as it is often less affected by congestion.

Chargeable car parking is available but, as at most UK hospitals, they can be very busy at peak times.

The Royal Bournemouth Hospital in particular can suffer severe congestion, particularly at peak times such as early evening, so please allow extra time for your journey. Other free options can also be considered including:

  • The patient transport service (free but subject to eligibility)
  • Hospital car share (taxi) service
  • Volunteer car services

We also encourage the public and our staff to cycle to our hospitals where possible, and we have a number of secure bike hoops and stands.

Claiming for travel expenses

Please note, from January 2026, there will be no patient facing cash offices at Poole or the Royal Bournemouth hospitals for you to receive cash.

If you are a patient who is eligible to claim for travel expenses, you should use an NHS HC5(T) form which you can find online or in the department you are visiting.

The money will then be paid straight into your account.

If you have any issues, please let the team involved in your care know.

You can check if you are eligible to receive travel expenses at www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/check-if-youre-eligible-help

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