Grounds and Buildings
The school grounds occupy some 250 acres (1,000,000 m2) which is a good portion of the village of St Bees, and the oldest buildings date from the late 16th century. The original schoolroom is today used as one of the dining rooms, and it is surrounded by the 'Foundation' block, which was mainly built during the mid part of the 19th century. As one moves North East along the valley, the buildings generally get progressively newer, ending with the Science Block and the Management Centre. Most of the buildings are either built with or faced by the distinctive red sandstone which is characteristic of the buildings at the school. School House is located on the main site, but the other boarding houses are all located across the railway tracks to the South - Grindal in a large former hotel, while the other three houses occupy the whole of Londsdale Terrace, a row of houses owned by the school. The school also owns a building just across the road from the main school, which is occupied by the Music Department. The Priory Church is used by the school for many services throughout the year, as the Vicar of the church is always also the school Chaplain.
The buildings around the main quadrangle in the Foundation block are a grade II listed building, granting them additional protections under English law. This includes the original schoolroom on the lower north side of the quad. Lonsdale Terrace is another grade II listed building owned by the school, also built in the mid 19th century. The school does not own, but has use of the former chancel of the Priory Church, which is a grade I listed building, granting additional protection above grade II. The school uses this room for orchestra and choir practices.
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