A former World War II communal site, which was home to the legendary 35 Squadron, part of the famous Pathfinder Force, has hit the market with Cheffins.
The buildings, which are offered alongside a modern three-bedroom house, include the dance hall, which was reportedly visited by Glenn Miller, the cinema, sergeant’s mess, kitchens, classrooms and sick quarters. The ex-MOD buildings, along with the house and its surrounding five acres, has come to the open market for the first time since 1973.
Wartime buildings at Great Parlow Close
Situated in Graveley, near St Neots, the site was formerly the base of the famous 35 Squadron, which was part of the Pathfinder Force, using Handley Page Halifax aircraft, from RAF Graveley. Located five miles south of Huntingdon, RAF Graveley was a key location during World War II and was home to 35 Squadron from 1942 until 1946. 35 Squadron was a pivotal part of the War, and the first to use the Handley Page Halifax aircraft. The squadron flew night bombing attacks throughout France and Germany and was one of the five squadrons selected to create the Pathfinder Force which located and marked targets with flares, to lead the way for the main bomber force. The Force was made up of a number of squadrons based throughout East Anglia and would go on to lead almost every raid over occupied France.
House at Great Parlow Close
There are twelve ex-MOD buildings on the site in total, as well as six concrete blast shelters and a series of garden sheds. The house includes three bedrooms, a kitchen/dining room, utility room and a garden room. There are also large lawned areas and a summerhouse which surround the property.
Edward Tabner, Director, Cheffins, says:
“Despite a couple of minor changes, the majority of these buildings appear to be largely unaltered since they were built in World War Two and now offer a fascinating insight into squadron life. The buildings are of real historic importance and are a rarity to the open market, especially as so few of these original World War II buildings are still in existence. The property is on the market for the first time in fifty years, with this in mind we are sure that it will draw interest from military history fans.”
The house, five acres and the wartime buildings are offered for sale for £850,000.
For further information, contact the Cheffins Rural Professionals Department on 01353 654900 - ely.agric@cheffins.co.uk