Middleton’s historic 16th century Old Grammar School to go up for auction

Date published: 22 August 2023

One of Middleton’s most historic buildings, the Old Grammar School on Boarshaw Road, is to go under the hammer next month with a guide price of £100,000 to £125,000.

Included in property auctioneer Pugh’s online sale, which takes place on 20 September, the Old Grammar School is currently used as a venue for weddings and other events.

The Grade II* listed building dates back to 1586, when it was known as Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, and the school itself was founded in 1412 to give local boys a Latin education. By 1867, pupil numbers had fallen to just 34 and the school was finally closed in 1902.

The 2,900 sq ft stone-built former school, which includes an attached brick cottage originally built as accommodation for the schoolteacher, consists of an open-plan hall with mezzanine floors, with a kitchen and toilets located in the adjoining cottage.

Pugh’s Edward Feather said: “This is a uniquely characterful building that has played a role in Middleton’s history and opportunities to buy a property of this age and heritage certainly don’t come up very often.

“At the moment the Old Grammar School is occupied on a short-term licence by an events company and is a popular local venue for weddings. However, subject to gaining the relevant planning consent, there are all sorts of creative new uses that this landmark building could be put to.

“It is in a great location, close to the town centre and a stone’s throw from both Manchester and the M62 and M60 motorways.”

The auction listing can be viewed on Pugh's website: www.pugh-auctions.com/property/34238