Top 25 Best & Worst Hospitals in England of 2025, Ranked NHS

What are the Best Hospitals in England for 2025?

The NHS’s annual rankings for 2025 provide invaluable insight into the best-performing hospitals in England. Using key metrics such as A&E waiting times, cancer treatment waiting times, and general appointment scheduling, the rankings highlight excellence in patient care and efficiency.

As of January 2025, the National Health Service (NHS) released its updated rankings of the best hospitals in England. The rankings consider three key performance metrics: A&E waiting times, cancer treatment wait times, and appointment waiting times. Based on this analysis, the Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust leads the list, followed by other standout performers like Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust.

Learn more: Top 10 Best Hospitals in London of 2025, Ranked by Top Doctors

20 Best Hospitals in England of 2025, Ranked by NHS

1. Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust

Northumbria Healthcare

• Location: North East England (headquartered in Cramlington)
• Website: www.northumbria.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #1:

  Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust leads the NHS rankings for 2025 due to its outstanding performance across multiple metrics. It is ranked 1st for A&E waiting times, ensuring that patients are treated swiftly in emergencies, and 2nd for appointment waiting times, reflecting its efficient scheduling system. The trust is widely recognized for its investment in state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital. The hospital’s focus on patient-centered care, coupled with a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, ensures exceptional outcomes.

  Specialty Services: Emergency care, orthopedics, cardiology, and maternity care.

2. Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Homerton University Hospital

• Location: Hackney, London
• Website: www.homerton.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #2:

  Homerton University Hospital is renowned for its well-balanced performance in cancer treatment (16th), A&E services (10th), and general appointment scheduling (12th). The hospital serves a diverse community and excels in delivering timely and high-quality care. Homerton is particularly praised for its maternal and neonatal care services and has been awarded for its innovative approaches to healthcare delivery.

  Specialty Services: Neonatal intensive care, stroke rehabilitation, and outpatient clinics.

3. Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells

• Location: Kent, South East England
• Website: www.mtw.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #3:

  This trust is highly rated for its exceptional appointment management (6th) and A&E efficiency (4th). Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells operates two major hospitals—Maidstone Hospital and Tunbridge Wells Hospital—that provide a range of specialist services. Its cancer treatment facilities, including the Kent Oncology Centre, are widely regarded as some of the best in the region.

  Specialty Services: Oncology, general surgery, and trauma care.

Learn more: Top 20 Best Hospitals In The UK of 2025, Ranked By Newsweek and Statista

4. Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust

• Location: Kent, South East England
• Website: www.dgt.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #4:

  Dartford and Gravesham ranks 5th for cancer waiting times, demonstrating its commitment to timely and effective treatments. The trust’s flagship hospital, Darent Valley Hospital, is known for its modern facilities and patient-centered care. It offers a wide range of specialist services, including advanced diagnostic imaging and minimally invasive surgeries.

  Specialty Services: Oncology, pediatrics, and general medicine.

5. Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust

• Location: Tyne and Wear, North East England
• Website: www.qegateshead.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #5:

  Gateshead Health NHS Trust is highly regarded for its cancer treatment services, ranking 5th in this category. Its flagship hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, has a reputation for delivering compassionate and effective care. The trust is also committed to reducing waiting times across all departments, enhancing patient satisfaction and accessibility.

  Specialty Services: Oncology, gastroenterology, and elderly care.

6. Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust

• Location: Cornwall, South West England
• Website: www.royalcornwall.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #6:

  Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust is recognized for its outstanding A&E services, ranked 9th overall, and its ability to handle high patient volumes without compromising care quality. The trust focuses on serving rural communities and is a leader in telemedicine and remote healthcare services, ensuring accessibility for patients in remote areas.

  Specialty Services: Emergency medicine, oncology, and respiratory care.

7. Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust

Walsall Healthcare

• Location: West Midlands
• Website: www.walsallhealthcare.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #7:

  Walsall Healthcare excels in balancing A&E and cancer treatment services, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care. Its key focus areas include maternity services and long-term condition management, making it a crucial healthcare provider in the West Midlands.

  Specialty Services: Maternity care, diabetes management, and palliative care.

8. North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

• Location: North East England
• Website: www.nth.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #8:

  North Tees and Hartlepool achieves excellent rankings in A&E services (2nd) and appointment waiting times (5th). It has earned a reputation for efficiency, particularly in handling high-pressure emergencies. Its innovative use of technology, such as electronic patient records, enhances operational efficiency and patient experience.

  Specialty Services: Emergency care, urology, and cancer diagnostics.

9. Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust

• Location: London
• Website: www.bhrhospitals.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #9:

  This trust has made significant strides in improving outpatient services and cancer care. It ranks 12th for A&E waiting times and offers a strong focus on specialized care for the diverse communities it serves. Key facilities include King George Hospital and Queen’s Hospital, both of which are known for their advanced surgical units.

  Specialty Services: Cancer care, maternity services, and orthopedics.

10. Croydon Health Services NHS Trust

Croydon Health Services

• Location: London
• Website: www.croydonhealthservices.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #10:

  Croydon Health Services ranks 7th in appointment waiting times, highlighting its efficiency in handling outpatient care. The trust is praised for its focus on preventive medicine and community health programs. Croydon University Hospital, the flagship facility, is known for its comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options.

  Specialty Services: Preventive care, pediatrics, and diagnostic imaging.

Learn more: Full List: Best and Worst Hospitals In The UK - HCPS and NHS Trust

11. Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

• Location: London
• Website: www.chelwest.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #11: Chelsea and Westminster excels in patient satisfaction and outpatient services, consistently delivering high standards of care. Its expertise in specialized areas like neonatal and HIV care further sets it apart. The hospital has also been commended for reducing waiting times in critical care departments.

12. South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust

• Location: North East England
• Website: www.stsft.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #12: This trust achieved 6th place in cancer waiting times and 4th in appointment scheduling, demonstrating remarkable efficiency. Its collaborative, community-focused healthcare model ensures faster access to treatments and shorter recovery times for patients.

13. West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust

• Location: Hertfordshire
• Website: www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #13: Known for high-quality diagnostic services, West Hertfordshire performs exceptionally in cancer treatment efficiency. The trust has recently invested in cutting-edge medical technologies, significantly enhancing its diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.

14. Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust

• Location: North Yorkshire
• Website: www.hdft.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #14: Harrogate and District is recognized for its efficient cancer treatment pathways, ranked 2nd overall in this category. The trust also specializes in elderly care and rehabilitation services, catering to the needs of its aging population with top-tier support.

15. Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust

• Location: London and Surrey
• Website: www.epsom-sthelier.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #15: This hospital is lauded for its outpatient and diagnostic imaging services. Recent upgrades to its infrastructure, including the introduction of AI in diagnostics, have allowed it to provide faster and more accurate patient care.

16. George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust

• Location: Nuneaton, Warwickshire
• Website: www.geh.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #16: George Eliot Hospital stands out for its rapid cancer care pathways, ranking 2nd in this category. The hospital also excels in maternity services, providing personalized care for expecting mothers.

17. Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust

• Location: London
• Website: www.imperial.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #17: A leader in medical research and innovation, Imperial College Healthcare combines cutting-edge treatments with excellent patient care. While its performance in general appointment scheduling could improve, it remains a hub for complex surgeries and experimental therapies.

18. Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

• Location: Surrey
• Website: www.kingstonhospital.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #18: Known for its compassionate staff and well-organized services, Kingston Hospital ranks highly in community care. It is especially noted for its expertise in cancer diagnostics and treatment.

19. University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust

• Location: North West England
• Website: www.uhmb.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #19: This trust ranks 9th in appointment waiting times, reflecting its strong commitment to accessibility. It also specializes in cardiology and orthopedics, with a focus on reducing surgery backlogs.

20. Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

• Location: Northamptonshire
• Website: www.kgh.nhs.uk
• Why it ranks #20: Despite being at the bottom of this list, Kettering General Hospital excels in specific areas, such as A&E services and maternity care. Its ongoing improvement programs aim to further enhance patient experiences in 2025 and beyond.

Learn more: Top 10+ Best and Worst Hospitals In The UK - Full List of 100+

What Are the Worst Hospitals in England?

While some NHS trusts set the standard for excellence, others face significant challenges in meeting key performance metrics. Based on the latest 2025 NHS rankings, Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust ranks as the worst-performing trust in England. Below, we explore the bottom-ranking hospitals, their issues, and the areas they need to improve.

1. Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital

Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital

• Location: West Midlands

• Why it ranks the worst:

  This trust performs poorly across all three key metrics:

  • A&E waiting times: Ranked at the very bottom, with patients experiencing long delays in emergency departments.
  • Cancer care and backlogs: Nearly at the bottom, indicating inefficiency in handling critical treatments.
  • Appointment waiting times: Ranked 98th out of 118 trusts, reflecting significant delays in routine and specialist care.

  The trust operates two major hospitals, Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital, but has struggled with staffing shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and mounting patient demand. Despite these challenges, it is taking steps to address its issues, including recruiting more staff and expanding capacity.

2. Western Sussex Hospitals

• Location: West Sussex, South East England
• Why it ranks poorly:

  This trust ranks among the bottom five for its lengthy waiting times in A&E and outpatient appointments. Despite serving a large population across hospitals like St Richard's Hospital and Worthing Hospital, resource constraints have led to significant service backlogs.

  Key Issues: Insufficient emergency department capacity, aging infrastructure, and high patient-to-staff ratios.

3. Mid Cheshire Hospitals

• Location: Cheshire, North West England
• Why it ranks poorly:

  Known for struggling with operational inefficiency, this trust faces challenges in appointment waiting times and backlog management. Leighton Hospital, the primary facility, has faced criticism for overcrowding and delays in diagnostics and treatment. Efforts are underway to address these shortcomings through digital transformation and workforce expansion.

  Key Issues: Staff shortages and outdated facilities.

4. Manchester University

• Location: Greater Manchester, North West England
• Why it ranks poorly:

  Despite being one of the largest NHS trusts in England, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust suffers from inefficiencies in patient flow and long waiting lists for both cancer and non-urgent treatments. Hospitals under this trust, including Manchester Royal Infirmary and Wythenshawe Hospital, experience significant delays due to high demand and administrative challenges.

  Key Issues: Overwhelmed by patient numbers, leading to reduced care quality and long delays.

5. Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn

• Location: King’s Lynn, Norfolk
• Why it ranks poorly:

  This trust faces persistent issues with appointment backlogs and slow response times in A&E. Ranked near the bottom in cancer care wait times, the trust struggles to maintain efficient services due to aging facilities and resource limitations. Plans for redevelopment and modernization are in progress, but the impact remains to be seen.

  Key Issues: Infrastructure challenges and lack of clinical staff.

Conclusion

The 2025 NHS rankings highlight hospitals in England that are at the forefront of healthcare excellence. From Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust, which tops the list, to Kettering General Hospital, ranked 20th, these institutions exemplify the dedication of NHS staff to improving patient outcomes. By focusing on key metrics such as A&E wait times, cancer care, and appointment efficiency, the rankings provide a roadmap for ongoing improvements in England’s healthcare system.

With significant investments in medical technology and infrastructure, these hospitals are addressing the challenges of increasing demand, ensuring timely care, and embracing innovation. Whether you're seeking emergency services or specialized treatments, this list is a testament to the excellence and reliability of the NHS.

FAQs

1. What is the NHS ranking based on?

The rankings are based on three primary metrics:

• A&E waiting times: How quickly patients are treated in emergency departments.
• Cancer treatment waiting times: How soon patients start treatment after a cancer diagnosis.
• Appointment waiting times: The speed at which patients can secure appointments for general or specialized care.

2. How often are the rankings updated?

The NHS updates these rankings annually, allowing hospitals to benchmark their performance and identify areas for improvement.

3. Why is Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust ranked first?

Northumbria Healthcare leads in A&E and appointment waiting times, demonstrating unmatched efficiency in managing patient care.

4. What role does patient feedback play in the rankings?

While these rankings primarily use performance metrics, patient satisfaction surveys often complement the evaluation to ensure the rankings reflect real-world experiences.

5. Are private hospitals included in this ranking?

No, the NHS rankings focus exclusively on NHS hospitals in England, showcasing publicly funded healthcare providers.

6. How can I access services at these top hospitals?

Patients can access services through GP referrals or direct appointments where applicable. Emergency services are always accessible via A&E.

7. Are patients safe in worst hospitals?

Despite ranking poorly, all NHS hospitals are regulated and adhere to strict safety and care standards. The rankings reflect relative performance rather than outright failures.

8. How can I avoid delays if I need care from worst hospitals?

Patients are advised to:

• Use NHS 111 for advice on accessing appropriate care.
• Book appointments well in advance for non-emergency care.
• Explore treatment options at nearby hospitals when possible.

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