Napper Centre- The first Cottage Hospital in 1859 Cranleigh Surrey
6A High Street, Cranleigh, Surrey, GU6 8AE
In 1859,a 15th century cottage became England's first cottage hospital in England's , founded by Dr Albert Napper, who believed passionately that small, local hospitals should be accessible to all, regardless of financial status. His vision was simple but revolutionary: that people could receive care close to home and pay only
what they could afford. This pioneering ethos is widely credited as an inspiration for the creation of the NHS. After years of sadly falling into disrepair, the cottage has been given a new lease of life. Thanks to the vision of the Cranleigh Heritage Trust and the generous support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, a significant grant of £780,000 was secured in 2024, allowing the
building to be sensitively restored and reopened to the public.
Today, the Napper Centre is a vibrant community space dedicated to health, wellbeing, heritage, and learning for Cranleigh.
Timings
- Saturday 12 September:
- 1000 - 1600
- Sunday 13 September:
- 1000 - 1300
Location & directions
6A High Street, Cranleigh, Surrey, GU6 8AE
- Directions:
- Car parking is available by Village Way Cranleigh
- Contact on day:
- Howard Barratt
- Telephone number:
- +447747627539
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking preferred
- Booking conditions:
- See website to book for operating theatre tour only
Accessibility details
Wheel chair access downstairs only
Additional information
- Max number of people:
- 20
- Estimated duration:
- 0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)
