Bushmills Trust secures new momentum for historic old schoolhouse restoration
The Bushmills Trust has announced significant progress in its long-term plans to restore the historic Bushmills Old Schoolhouse and develop it into a vibrant community hub.
Founded in 1994, the Bushmills Trust was established with a clear mission to secure funding, safeguard the heritage of Bushmills, and bring the Old Schoolhouse back to life for community use.
Over the past 25 years, the Trust has played an active role in promoting local history, including installing illustrated banners and street-light displays celebrating the heritage of Bushmills.
The Bushmills National School was constructed in 1842 by Sir Francis McNaughton, a prominent landowner who oversaw major developments in the village. His contributions included building the market square, the courthouse, and the new bridge, shaping much of Bushmills as it is recognised today.
After closing as a school in the 1950s, the building served the community as a Royal British Legion Hall, before eventually falling into disuse.
In 2016, the Bushmills Trust purchased the Old Schoolhouse, reaffirming its commitment to preserving and reimagining the site. Their vision includes developing the building as a focal point in a new pedestrian landscape link between the village and the car park, with potential uses including a visitor information centre, community meeting space, and multi-purpose venue.
A major milestone has now been reached with the granting of planning permission, enabling the next phase of the restoration project. The Trust recently secured significant support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, advancing the development phase and laying essential groundwork for full restoration.
Once restored, the Old Schoolhouse is intended to serve as a versatile community asset, hosting drop-in sessions, educational workshops, food demonstrations, social gatherings, arts, cultural events and exhibitions.
The Trust envisions a centre that welcomes people of all ages and interests, supporting community wellbeing and enabling new opportunities for learning, connection, and creativity.
Since acquiring the building, the Bushmills Trust has maintained the grounds and added illustrated window panels as an interim aesthetic and protective measure.
As part of its ongoing consultation process, the Bushmills Trust recently engaged with Port Cammon Fold in Bushmills, seeking conversation and ideas about the future use of the Old Schoolhouse. Collaboration with local residents and groups remains central to the Trust’s vision, ensuring the restored building will meet real community needs.