History & Tradition

The Service is proud of its tradition and history with over 100 years of experience in supporting and protecting the people of Lancashire.

On the outbreak of World War II Washington Hall was acquired and developed as an accommodation centre for the Royal Ordnance Factory. In 1942, the 127th Replacement Battalion of the United States Air Force further developed the site, adding a cinema and hospital block.

It was during this period of occupation by American troops that the Centre acquired its name, as the lane forming the North West boundary of the site was, at that time, named German Lane. This was quickly changed to Washington Lane, from which the title of the Centre was derived.

Between 1948 and 1958 the site was used by both the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Defence who used the Centre to train Royal Air Force Mobile Fire Columns as part of the emergency defence programme.

In 1964 Washington Hall UK began its long history as a prime Firefighter Training Centre. With a reputation as a premier centre for training and development built upon decades of experience in training students from many and varied backgrounds and skills, and through the continued development of its facilities and staff, Washington Hall UK has become respected world-wide.

Building on the history and tradition of Washington Hall UK and the dedication of our staff past and present, we have been able to set high standards in all areas of our work. Looking to the future our aim is to build strong working relationships and continually exceed customer expectations.