History
Lincolnshire County Asylum, Bracebridge Heath, was opened 9.8.1852.
The land for it was purchased in 1846. It had 300 patients in 1858 and was enlarged in 1859, 1866, 1881, 1902, 1917 and 1928. It was built in the "Italian style".
Architects: Hamilton and Thomas Percy
The Asylum (St John's Mental Hospital) closed down in 1990 and was sold a few years later to a property developer who has constructed nearly 1,000 new houses in the village. The original hospital buildings themselves are classified as Grade III listed buildings and are protected from demolition. During the redevelopment of the hospital site, a number of these protected buildings were refurbished and converted into flats and offices.
The Visit
The long day started off for me at 4am, had to pick two members of the group (WIMR & Andy) up before meeting up with out lift for the day (HiddenShadow), once we were all assembled off we headed to Lincoln to finally pay a visit to St John's. I have seen many reports on St John's, but none for a while and I had forgotten so many features were here - the 'shields', the 'cat corridor' and even that the asylum had a hall. So my day was full of surprises which have gone to make St John's my new favourite asylum.
A great day was had by all, looking forward to the next trip already, thanks again HiddenShadow for driving.
The Photos
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Full Gallery HERE
Attachments
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