The origins of the hospital date back to the 11th century when it was originally founded by Bishop Gundulph for the poor and leprous of the district. A new hospital was finally built between 1861-63, designed by R. P. Pope and erected by Messrs Stump as a long two-storey building of red brick with white stone dressing. Additions were made to the hospital over the years with a number of small or temporary wards, operating theatres being built as well as housing for staff.