Since the 19th century Woodhall has been better known as Woodhall Spa, gaining an elite status as a desirable retirement place with its beneficial spa waters. These were discovered by accident when Joseph Parkinson fell upon the salt waters whilst boring for coal in 1811.
It was not until his quest to establish Woodhall as a coal city on the edge of a new forest had failed resulting in his bankruptcy in 1827, that the significance of his earlier find was appreciated. With this new appreciation came relief for the gout and rheumatism of Lincolnshire's senior - and more affluent - citizens. Parkinson's forest was sold and is now known as Ostler's Plantation.
Woodhall Spa became established some distance from 'old' Woodhall, and from St Margaret's church which regrettably no longer exists.