The story of Woodhall Spa begins in the early 19th century, with an industrial mine shaft that never produced any coal. Following its flooding and the bankruptcy of the project financier, the shaft was closed. Years later, when it was discovered that the metal cover to the shaft had become discolored, the plate was lifted and the shaft was found to be full of water that had then overflowed into the ditches of Coalpit Wood. Although there was no natural spring, the water was drawn up into a bath; this new discovery inspired incredible investment and Woodhall Spa became a fashionable inland resort. The woodlands remain a striking feature of the village, and walkers marvel at the changing colors of the flora throughout the seasons from pale blossom in spring to the vivid colors of the rhododendrons in summer and then the russet and gold foliage in autumn.