Beneath this elegant facade of Clare Hall Manor lies a story of transformation. Built in 1745, Clare Hall Manor started as a private residence. Thomas Roberts, a linen draper from St Albans, commissioned it. However, Roberts fell bankrupt just two years later. His widow then sold the estate.
For over 140 years, Clare Hall Manor changed hands. Various families owned or sold it. The manor underwent architectural changes. It was enlarged in 1797. Further changes occurred in the mid-19th century.
In 1886, Clare Hall Manor took on a new purpose. Theresa Southwell, Louisa Limes, Mary Morgan, and Henrietta Williams acquired it. They transformed it into St Monica’s Priory, a Roman Catholic nunnery. Nuns resided and worshipped within these walls.
A decade later, in 1896, Clare Hall Manor transitioned again. It became a hospital. Highgate Hospital’s smallpox treatment services moved here. The facility was then known as Clare Hall Hospital.
Smallpox treatment advanced significantly. In 1912, Clare Hall Hospital shifted its focus. It began treating tuberculosis patients. In 1929, it officially became Clare Hall Sanatorium.
During World War II, Clare Hall Manor played a crucial role. Brick huts were built across Blanche Lane as part of the Emergency Medical Service. These huts were used throughout the war. In 1940, it was known as Clare Hall Emergency Hospital. Though designated a general base hospital, all 540 beds were occupied by tuberculosis patients in 1942.
In 1948, Clare Hall Hospital joined the National Health Service. Tuberculosis treatment remained a priority. As cases declined, non-TB patients were admitted in 1949. The hospital offered over 400 beds during the 1950s.
Tuberculosis cases decreased in the 1960s. The hospital increasingly treated other chest diseases and respiratory conditions. Despite improvements, its outdated facilities led to closure in 1974.
The London Research Institute acquired Clare Hall Manor in 1980. It became a hub for biotechnological research. Laboratories opened in 1986. Support services were also provided here.
Research services moved to the Francis Crick Institute in 2015. Clare Hall Manor was then put up for sale. Today, Clare Hall Manor stands as a Grade II listed building. Its architectural heritage is now protected. From private home to nunnery to hospital to research facility, Clare Hall Manor has witnessed many lives.