Project of the week

Situated in Gracehill, a historic Moravian settlement and Northern Ireland’s first designated conservation area, Gracehill Old School dates from 1765. After suffering a fire, the former primary school became redundant and was left vacant in 1999. What ensued was a campaign to restore and reuse this significant building. 

Made up entirely of volunteers drawn from the local community and the Moravian Church, Gracehill Old School Trust (GhOST) was established to take on the former school building. In just over 10 years, the campaign had become a reality; the restored Old School now houses an after-school club, an award-winning restaurant, several small businesses, community space, a visitor centre, and a conserved 18th-century classroom. GhOST went on to complete further projects and activities, and spearheaded aspirations for Gracehill to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site – a dream that was realised in July 2024. 

Today, Gracehill Old School continues to be popular with tourists, visitors, and the local community alike, proving the wide and lasting appeal of the regenerated, beautiful old building in this unique historic village. 

“We just thought we were restoring an old and beautiful building, but ultimately it strengthened local pride and helped sustain a living community, giving residents a renewed and vibrant shared space. 20 jobs were created and amenities added that attract around 25,000 users annually, boosting the local economy. And we have a beautiful historic building with a future. Success!” 

David J Johnston, Chair of Gracehill Old School Trust