Just a stone’s throw from Cardiff lies Flat Holm, an island bursting with wildlife and natural beauty, yet it’s also shrouded in history and mystery. Beneath its serene surface, Flat Holm harbours an eerie past as a quarantine spot for cholera patients.
Back in 1865, the island was acquired by the War Office, and by 1883, it hosted a cholera hospital thanks to fears of ship-borne illness reaching Cardiff. The arrival of the Rishanglys steamship in July that year marked the beginning of its dark chapter, with suspected cholera patients sent there, never to return.
Fast forward to 1892, after a major cholera outbreak in Hamburg, Flat Holm became a fortress of isolation once more. More ships were quarantined, and a brick-and-mortar hospital replaced the tents. The facilities grew with a larger building, a wooden crematorium, and laundry services. By 1935, however, the hospital was deemed unfit for use.
Interestingly, WWII switched gears once more, with the hospital repurposed as part of a strategic military base, showcasing the island’s versatility. Flat Holm’s history extends even deeper, from religious roots in the 6th century to its role in the Bristol Channel Mission’s formation.
Currently, renovation work is reviving the island’s Victorian-era hospital, a reminder of its resilient past amid its tranquil present. Despite its spooky history, Flat Holm remains a fascinating site for history buffs and nature lovers.
Have you visited this historical gem? Share your experiences below! 🌿🏝️