RAF Nocton Hall and Hospital
RAF Nocton Hall and Hospital Explored 02/10
I did this explore as part of a group and found it most interesting as there is quite a lot to see and no security as such to worry about, just keep an eye on the locals. The hospital had several warning signs around about asbestos so best to take your mask. I have to say the hospital must have the longest corridors I have ever seen, incredible. Didnt see anyone else around the hospital but did come across some chav/pikeys at the Hall. They were ok when we talked to them, even telling us some of the history of the hall! The hall (Manor house) has some great sites to photograph inside but it is quite scramble to get inside and be careful as the place is in a right state and is probably pretty dangerous. As this is my first report I have just included a few of my shots as they are HDR.
See below for some history if you dont already know.
Opened: 1940
Re-deisgnated: 1943 United States Army Seventh General Hospital
Re-designated: 1945 RAF Nocton Hall
Closed: Hospital closed 1982
Leased to USAF: 1984 - 1995
Formally closed 23 Jun 1995, handed back by US Forces Sep 1995
Units based here:
On America's entry into the Great War in 1917 Nocton Hall, an 18th Century manor house, was turned into a convalescent home for young American officers. Towards the end of 1919 the now vacant Hall and its estate were sold to William H. Dennis who having little affection for domestic life in the village, did not reside there. Having lain vacant since the departure of the American military in 1919, Nocton Hall and 200 acres of parkland was acquired by the Air Ministry in 1940 and turned into an RAF Hospital. The Hall itself was used as an Army "clearing station" until 1943, when the US Army took possession of the Hall and grounds for a second time. Nocton became home for the United States Army Seventh General Hospital, built in the grounds behind it, and the Hall was used as the Officers’ Club. At the end of the War in 1945 the RAF selected Nocton Hall to be their permanent hospital for the county of Lincolnshire. RAF Nocton Hall was a 740 bed hospital under RAF control until 1984, used by civilians and forces personnel, one of the country’s undisputed RAF Hospitals. The decision to close Nocton Hall as a military hospital was taken on 31st March 1983. In 1984 Nocton Hall was leased to the US Armed Forces for a third time, this time as a United States Air Force wartime contingency hospital. During the Gulf War in 1991/92 some 1300 US medical staff were sent there, many billeted at RAF Scampton. Fortunately only 35 casualties received treatment here during the conflict. In its latter days just 13 American personnel remained here to keep the hospital serviceable. There followed a short period serving as an RAF forward outpatient department, from 1992 until 1993. RAF Nocton Hall was again handed back to the British Government to stand empty on 30 Sep 95. After a short period serving as a private residential home, the Hall and grounds
are became subject to property development having been identified for disposal by the Defence Estates. Shortly before midnight on Sat 24 Oct 04 the Hall was set ablaze by arsonists. At its height, about 70 firefighters
attended the blaze which started just before midnight. After several hours it was brought under control, but the roof collapsed and the building was severely damaged. Only a shell was to remain. A second fire in 2005 caused further damage.
(Sorry couldnt see how to use the Green Arrow or know what it does!)
Re: RAF Nocton Hall and Hospital
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Trousercowboy
I like that last shot mate :thumb Nocton is great for corridor porn
ditto TC, :thumb
Nice report there mate :thumb
Re: RAF Nocton Hall and Hospital
A wonderful place indeed is Nocton, and I like the different feel to this place!
Re: RAF Nocton Hall and Hospital
Yeah that last shot is cool mate :thumb
Nice report that well done ;)
Re: RAF Nocton Hall and Hospital
Some great shots there fella :thumb
Heard that the hall is one of the most endangered buildings in the country on a recent BBC program. Looks like the hospital is getting more and more trashed.
Re: RAF Nocton Hall and Hospital
That last shot looks ace mate
Re: RAF Nocton Hall and Hospital
Last shot, brilliant, i really like well done!!
