Hospital Facilities
NHS Lothian provides a range of facilities, services and support for families at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People to help make hospital life a little easier.
Finding your way around
Need help finding your way? Waymap is a free indoor navigation app that guides you from the hospital entrance to your appointment using step-by-step directions. Simply enter your starting point (for example, your ward) and the location you’re trying to reach.
Spaces to relax and recharge
ECHC Hub
Located in the Family Support Corridor on the ground floor (next to The Pod outpatient waiting area), The Hub is ECHC’s home away from home within the hospital.
At The Hub you’ll find:
- A welcoming space to relax, chat and take a break
- Activities and play opportunities
- Information and support
- Complimentary refreshments
- Access to ECHC services and family support
Family sitting room
Located on Level 3, the Family Sitting Room is open to all families and visitors.
It’s a calm, comfortable space away from the wards where you can:
- Take some quiet time
- Enjoy a hot drink
- Prepare formula using the kettle provided
- Access information about support services
The room is fully accessible and open 24 hours a day.
Spiritual Care and the Sanctuary
The Sanctuary and Spiritual Care service are located on the ground floor beside Castle Mey Ward.
Open 24 hours a day, this peaceful space is available to everyone for reflection, prayer or quiet time, regardless of faith or belief.
Outdoor spaces
Fresh air and a change of scenery can make a big difference during a hospital stay. RHCYP has a number of accessible courtyards, terraces and outdoor spaces where children, young people and families can relax and spend time outdoors.
These spaces include seating, sensory features, planting and areas to explore, and are designed to be welcoming and accessible for all. Most outdoor spaces are open daily from 8am to 8pm.
For safety reasons, the Lochranza courtyards must be cleared during helicopter arrivals. Please follow staff instructions and leave these areas promptly when asked.
Please note: Families can only access the garden or balcony attached to the ward where their child is staying. The only communal outdoor space available to all families is the Hub garden.
Food & drink
Need help with food?
If you’re worried about feeding yourself or your family during your hospital stay, please speak to us.
Visit The Hub and we’ll do our best to help. Our Pantry offers refreshments, fresh fruit, hot drinks and light meals to help families through difficult days.
Hospital cafes and shops
ECHC Shop
Located in the main atrium, our volunteer-run shop stocks snacks, drinks, toys, games, gifts and everyday essentials.
Opening times
- Monday-Friday: 7.30am-6.30pm
- Saturday-Sunday: 10am-3.30pm
Every purchase helps support children and families in hospital.
Grab and Go Cafe
Located beside the ECHC Shop, the Grab and Go Cafe serves hot drinks, sandwiches, snacks and light meals – perfect for a quick bite during your hospital visit.
Opening times
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Scran Academy Cafe
Located on the 4th floor, Scran Academy Cafe offers freshly prepared food and drinks in a bright, welcoming space with access to an outdoor terrace.
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Shops beyond the Children's Hospital
Shops in the Royal Infirmary
Additional food and drink options are available just across from RHCYP in the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. Here you’ll find
- WHSmith,
- Marks & Spencer
- Starbucks
Supermarkets Nearby
If you need to stock up on food, drinks or everyday essentials, several supermarkets are located close to the hospital:
You can also take the 33 or 49 bus to Cameron Toll Shopping Centre, where you’ll find:
- Aldi
- Sainsbury’s
These stores are ideal for picking up groceries, toiletries and other essentials during your stay.
Claiming back food costs
Families with a child staying in hospital may be able to claim food expenses of up to £8.50 per day through the Young Patients Family Fund (YPFF).
You can:
- Download a YPFF form
- Collect one from your ward
- Pick one up from The Hub or Kindred
Practical facilities
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hospital thanks to NHS Lothian Charity.
Simply search for the network on your device and connect.
Showers and toiletries
Family shower facilities are available on Level 3.
If you need toiletries or essential items during your stay, please speak to your ward team or visit The Hub. We may be able to help.
Ronald McDonald House
Located next to the hospital, Ronald McDonald House provides accommodation and practical support for families.
Subject to availability, families can also apply for a day pass, giving access to facilities such as:
- Comfortable lounges
- Kitchen facilities
- Laundry services
If you’d like to enquire about a day pass, visit The Hub and our team can help.
Infant feeding room
The hospital is a breastfeeding-friendly environment and families are welcome to breastfeed anywhere within the building.
There are also three Infant Feeding Rooms. Two on the ground floor – one by Imaging and one in Outpatients, and one on Level 3 beside the Family Sitting Room.
The Infant Feeding Rooms offer:
- A quiet feeding space
- Complimentary drinks and snacks
- Supportive resources for infant feeding
Breast pumps and expressing equipment are available to borrow free of charge.
You are also welcome to breastfeed in the Hub – just speak to a member of staff if you need any help.
School and learning support
Little France school
If your child is staying in hospital, they may be able to continue their education through Little France School.
The teaching team works closely with families and schools to help children keep learning during their stay.
We're here to help
You’re not alone. Whether you have a question, need someone to talk to or you’re not sure where to turn, we’re here to listen, offer support and help however we can.
Call or text 07594 090 720 or email hub@echcharity.org.