RAF Nocton Hall
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RAF Nocton Hall started its Military role in 1917 as a convalescent home for young American officers. In 1919 the American military left and the Hall remained empty until 1940. When the Air Ministry aqquired the Hall and its 200 acres of parkland and turned the site 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 Hall became home for the United States Army. The Seventh General Hospital was built in the grounds 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, it became 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 U.S. Armed Forces for a third time. This time as a U.S. Air Force wartime contingency hospital during the Gulf War. During 1991/92 some 1,300 U.S. medical staff were sent there.
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.
From 1992/93 the RAF used Nocton Hall as a forward outpatient department. From 1992 to 1995 the hospital stood empty until it was handed back over to the British Government on the 30 Sep 1995.
After a short period serving as a private residential home, the Hall and grounds became subject to property development having been identified for disposal by the Defence Estates.
The Hall and Hospital has laid virtually derelict since the military left and has been victim to arson attacks and severe vandalism.
The most striking feature of the hospital is the corridors, some of which are at least a quarter of a mile in length.
The Hall itself despite being rather burnt out still has some interesting points too, which include the air raid shelters deep in the cellars.
A very unusual site in terms of layout and design and a very unusual history as well.
