Napsbury Hospital Main Administration Block
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Memories of a psychiatric hospital
By Bob Houlston |
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Napsbury is a residential area to the West of London Colney in the district of St. Albans in Hertfordshire. It was formerly the site of a major psychiatric hospital. Following the closure of the hospital, the buildings were renovated and a new development created by Crest Nicholson builders. |
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History of the hospital - The Middlesex County Asylum was founded in 1898, and open from 1905 to 1998. It was designed in a country estate style by architect Rowland Plumbe to house 1,200 residents, although further buildings including nursing homes were added later. The grounds were designed by William Goldring. |
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The hospital was used as a military hospital during and after the First World War. |
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At the age of fifteen I was employed at Napsbury Psychiatric Hospital as a porter. I remember being issued with a blue card that entitled me to free meals in the staff canteen. I enjoyed my time working there. I used the money I earned to buy my first electric guitar. I later returned to Napsbury Hospital several times to play in the staff social club. Check out 1973 photograph below. The first group I gigged with... Pebble Dash. Left to right; Bob Bell, Steve De'ath, Andy Fox and myself on far right. The venue was Napsbury Hospital staff social club. |
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I have many happy memories of Napsbury Hospital. The grounds were beautiful with acres of parkland and mature trees. The psychiatric wards were named after trees. What is the difference between God and a psychiatrist? God doesn't think he's a psychiatrist! ;) Feel free to add your comment about this page. I can take constructive praise... honest!  Printer Friendly PDFTo read the PDF you may require free reader from www.adobe.com I enjoy receiving e-mails and telephone calls so please feel free to contact me via: Tel: St Albans 01727 851809  With best wishes from Bob #==(o ) Home END OF FILE |