GP surgeries closed over Easter 2023: What to do if you need a doctor in London over bank holiday weekend

GP surgeries up and down the country are set to close across the long Easter weekend, including locations in the capital. However, Londoners can still access medical advice and treatment during this period.

Between Good Friday to Easter Monday, many GP surgeries will close their doors or operate with reduced opening hours. But if you find yourself in need of medical assistance over the long weekend, GP appointments will be available.

Londoners can also receive minor medical advice by visiting a pharmacy. There are more than 60 dispensaries scheduled to be open over the bank holiday period in London’s boroughs from Barking and Dagenham to Westminster.

Medical advice can be accessed online or by phone too through the NHS’ 111 services. If you’re unsure of whether you need more urgent care, you can find out more info on the NHS website.

We break down how you can receive medical advice over the Easter bank holiday weekend.

How can I get medical advice in London over the Easter bank holiday weekend?

The NHS released its plan for medical care in London over the Easter long weekend on Monday (April 3). At the time, the system reminded Londoners to get their repeat prescriptions in before the period to avoid running out of medication.

The NHS site states that open GP practices will be accessible in the capital between 8am to 8pm. However, you may want to check your local practices’ website in case their schedule has reduced hours or if it will be closed.

Locals in the following boroughs will be able to book GP appointments by calling their local surgery during its opening hours or contacting 111 out of hours:

• City of London
• Hackney
• Tower Hamlets
• Waltham Forest
• Newham 

Residents in the below boroughs can book appointments by calling the GP hubs booking hotline on 020 3770 1888, which is open between 8am and 8pm. Additionally, they can also call 111 out of those hours:

• Barking and Dagenham
• Havering
• Redbridge

Elsewhere, the Urgent Treatment Centres at Barking Community Hospital and Harold Wood Polyclinic will also be open for medical advice for minor injuries and illnesses. To receive care, you don’t need to be registered with a GP. You can book an appointment via NHS 111 or simply walk in.