Thorpe Camp

Thorpe Camp Visitor Centre was set up by the preservation group in memory of those who fought in World War Two.

The centre is based at Woodhall Spa in Lincolnshire, and was restored by the Thorpe Camp Preservation Group into a visitor centre, portraying the story of RAF Woodhall Spa, its squadrons and civilians in Lincolnshire during the war.

It was formerly part of No1 Communal Site, RAF Woodhall Spa, and was due for demolition in 1987. The preservation group restored the centre and now it is open for visitors. It is still being restored but there is lots to see (Observer Corps Post, Anderson Shelter, Wartime Kitchen), as well as separate areas covering each of the squadrons which operated from RAF Woodhall Spa during the war.

One of the squadrons based at Woodhall Spa was 97 (Straits Settlements) Squadron. There is a display area depicting the history of the Squadron, including photographs and artefacts from the time that 97 Squadron spent at Woodhall Spa (and elsewhere).

There is a memorial garden which commemorates all those that gave their lives while serving with the four squadrons who were based at Woodhall Spa. These squadrons were 97, 619, 617 and 627. The photo above shows the plaque for 97 Squadron.

(Above) One of the exhibits at the centre is a model of a 97 Squadron Avro Lancaster bomber.

(Above) Part of the 97 Squadron display area at Thorpe Camp Visitor Centre.

The photo above is a typical operation board which informs which crews are on Operations. This one is for May 30/31st 1942.

Thorpe Camp is staffed entirely by volunteers, so the opening times are naturally limited. You should check before travelling. For guided tours, groups and  schools please make prior arrangements. Thorpe Camp Visitor Centre is open every Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays from Easter to the end of September and Wednesdays during July & August from 2 to 5 pm. Entry just £2.
Adequate, free car parking. Thorpe Camp website: http://www.thorpecamp.org.uk

This book is written by Nigel Press and is about RAF Woodhall Spa between the years of 1941 and 1945. I recommend this book as a really interesting read. It costs £12 and can be purchased from the Preservation Group. Post and packing is an extra £3 for UK only, and overseas packaging will be extra.