Bushmills Old School Restoration: Community Invited To Share Memories And Ideas

The restoration of the Bushmills Old National School is progressing, and The Bushmills Trust is inviting the community to get involved.

Two upcoming community sessions will provide opportunities to hear about the plans and to contribute memories, ideas, and input.

Drop-in Sessions:

• Thursday, October 2nd, 2025 | 4:00 – 7:00 PM

• Sunday, October 5th, 2025 | 2:00 – 4:30 PM (Salmon & Whiskey Festival Weekend)

The Bushmills Trust project office at 47 Main Street—located opposite the Old School—will also be open on the evening of Thursday, September 25th and throughout the Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey Festival (October 3rd–5th). Visitors are encouraged to pause amid the food, drink, and music of the festival to learn how this long-established local charity is breathing new life into a historic landmark.

A Rich Heritage

The Bushmills Old National School, constructed in 1842 by Sir Francis Macnaghten, was part of a broader educational development initiative across Ireland. Sir Francis also played a pivotal role in shaping Bushmills, building landmarks such as the Market Square, the Court House, and the new bridge.

The school closed in the 1950s, later serving as a Royal British Legion hall before falling into disuse. At the start of the 21st century, New York resident Ron Faia developed a strong connection to Bushmills and acquired several properties, including the Old School. Although he envisioned ambitious redevelopment plans, these were constrained by the village’s conservation status.

In 2016, The Bushmills Trust—a community-owned registered charity—purchased the Old School. Drawing on the Village Plan, developed through extensive community consultations, the Trust reimagined the site as a central element of a landscaped pedestrian link through the village.

Moving Forward

The Bushmills Trust has reached an important milestone with funding secured from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Architectural Heritage Fund. These resources will support both the development phase and the restoration of the property.

In parallel, the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is progressing a Public Realm scheme that will connect the Old School into a pedestrian link from the car park to the village. The NI Housing Executive, which owns part of the site, is also supporting the initiative. Together, these efforts will realise a vision that has been over a decade in the making. Plans include a dedicated community meeting room with kitchen facilities, integrated with the Council’s proposed civic space.

Share Community Stories

The Project Team is especially keen to collect stories reflecting the building’s rich history. Local people may remember dances and events from its days as the Royal British Legion Hall, or have access to school-day tales from former pupils and teachers. Old photographs of community figures connected to the Old School are also warmly welcomed.

By sharing these stories, residents can help ensure the history of this iconic building informs its future.

Community members are encouraged to drop in, meet the team, explore the project’s vision, and contribute to the future of the Old National School.

Those unable to attend the upcoming sessions but wishing to contribute can contact [email protected] .