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Victorian Workhouse Becomes Historic Landmark
19 Jun
Summary
- Building originally served as a Victorian workhouse starting in 1864.
- Later functioned as Carlisle City General Hospital post-NHS establishment.
- A blue plaque now recognizes its historical significance to the city.
The Skiddaw building, a Grade II-listed structure at the University of Cumbria's Fusehill Street campus, has received official recognition for its historical importance to Carlisle. Originally constructed in 1864 as a Victorian workhouse, it provided shelter for numerous destitute individuals.
Following its workhouse days, the building was repurposed. It became Carlisle City General Hospital when the National Health Service was formed in 1948. The site also briefly served as a military hospital during the world wars.
The university, now operating a medical school on the same site, partnered with the Carlisle and District Civic Trust to install a blue plaque. This acknowledges the building's deep connection to the city's history and its varied past uses.
