Royal Brompton Hospital and Harefield Hospital boast a colourful history that spans several hundred years. Both Royal Brompton and Harefield evolved from an era when poverty was rife, when doctors visited those who could afford it in their own homes and only the very destitute or desperate went to hospital, and when the survival of medical institutions depended on the kindness of benefactors.
Today, the two hospitals are world-renowned leaders in the research and treatment of heart and lung disease and are recognised teaching institutions.
History of Royal Brompton Hospital
Explore Royal Brompton Hospital's rich history as we chart its journey through the years, beginning in 1841.
If you are visiting the hospital, you can take a look at our new panel installation in the Sydney Street foyer, showcasing our origins as a hospital, and the pioneers that shaped our hospital into what it is today.
History of Harefield Hospital
Read about the history of Harefield Hospital as we delve into its origins, groundbreaking innovation, and the people that have shaped the hospital over the centuries.
If you are visiting Harefield Hospital, you can explore more of our history by visiting our new panel installation in the Hungry Hare restaurant.
The archives
Historical records of Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals are preserved by Barts Health NHS Trust Archives, which hold one of the largest collections of hospital records in the UK, dating back to 1137. From patient case books to photographs and artefacts, the archival material of our hospitals is a valuable resource for research and insight into early medical practice and standards, how cardiac and respiratory conditions were managed and how treatment has evolved, and for social and hospital history.
The archives are located at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, and can be visited for research, by appointment. An online catalogue is also available to browse for listings of the collections held by Barts Health Archives. The collection references for our hospitals can be found here (Royal Brompton Hospital) and here (Harefield Hospital).
To find out more about Barts Health Archives, please visit the website.