Historic Lancashire school once attended by Titanic's heroic bandleader transformed into 14 new apartments

What if your next home came with a fascinating piece of Titanic history?

A historic Colne school once attended by the Titanic's famous bandleader Wallace Hartley is offering a unique opportunity to live in a piece of the town's history, with 14 new apartments now available to rent.

The former Wesleyan School on Great George Street, which dates back to 1852, has been transformed into a collection of stylish, high-specification apartments, giving the landmark building a new lease of life.

Now aptly named Wallace Hartley House, the development celebrates its remarkable connection to one of Colne's most famous sons, whose story became known around the world following the sinking of the Titanic in 1912.

Paul Sutton and Shelley Mason from Property Shop with the Mayor of Pendle Cllr Nadeem Ahmedplaceholder image
Paul Sutton and Shelley Mason from Property Shop with the Mayor of Pendle Cllr Nadeem Ahmed | submit

Born and raised in Colne, Wallace Hartley attended the former school before going on to become a talented violinist and bandleader aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic.

He famously led the ship's eight-member band as they continued playing music while the Titanic sank during its maiden voyage on 15 April 1912, becoming one of the most remembered figures of the disaster.

More than a century later, the very building where Hartley received his education has been transformed into 14 high spec modern homes, bringing together a fascinating piece of local history with contemporary town centre living.

The conversion was undertaken by a local developer who has appointed Property Shop as the leading agent to market the transformed former school, which had more recently operated as an underutilised business centre, into an impressive residential development right in the heart of the town.

The apartments offer prospective tenants the chance to make their home in a building with an extraordinary story to tell. They feature stylish open-plan living spaces, high-quality finishes and contemporary interiors, designed to offer comfort, convenience and modern living.

With rents starting from £600 per calendar month, Wallace Hartley House also benefits from a central location, putting Colne's shops, amenities and attractions within easy reach.

The building's history extends beyond its famous Titanic connection. The former Wesleyan School was also one of the most prominent British Society Schools, with Colne-born scientist Edmondson Spencer among its other notable former pupils.

L: Wallace Hartley. R: inside the apartmentsplaceholder image
L: Wallace Hartley. R: inside the apartments | various

Steven Chippendale, Managing Director of Property Shop, said: "We're absolutely delighted to be involved in bringing these fantastic apartments to the rental market. The quality of the accommodation is exceptional, but what makes this development particularly special is the incredible history behind it. Knowing that Wallace Hartley, who became such a famous part of the Titanic story, actually went to school in this very building is fascinating. It's a wonderful opportunity for people to enjoy modern living in a place with such a unique connection to Colne's past."

Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, Mayor of Pendle, said: “I am absolutely delighted that this building has been given a new lease of life, it’s an amazing building with fantastic facilities here in Colne. The history regarding this building is also incredible with the Titanic bandleader Wallace Hartley once going to school here.”

With its combination of historic character, contemporary accommodation and convenient town centre location, Wallace Hartley House offers something rarely found in the rental market.

The 14 apartments are now available to rent through Property Shop, with prices starting from £600 per calendar month.

To find out more or arrange a viewing, visit www.propertyshopltd.com

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