A £150,000 project to repair a historic building that has seen the Bronte sisters and Patti Smith pass through its doors has been completed.

The Old School Room in Haworth was designed and built by Patrick Bronte, and Charlotte, Anne and Emily Bronte all worked in the school at some point.

The 191-year-old building is now an important part of village life, hosting community events, beer festivals, and – in 2013 – a concert by New York punk legend Patti Smith.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Patti Smith playing the Old School Room in 2013Patti Smith playing the Old School Room in 2013 (Image: newsquest)

Earlier this year a £150,000 scheme to restore and repair the building’s roof began, and has recently been completed.

The renovation took three months to complete and was funded by a £130,000 grant from Keighley Towns Fund, with additional funding from the Bernard Sunley Foundation and Pilgrim Trust.

The original 1832 roof has now been sensitively restored and properly insulated at the venue.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: The Old School Room in HaworthThe Old School Room in Haworth (Image: Bradford Council)

Averil Kenyon, Chair of The Bronte Spirit charity, which manages and maintains the building, said: “The stone slates had been worn and damaged over the years and the roof sometimes leaked. Work to insulate it will not only improve the warmth of the building but also its sustainability.

“The building is Grade Two listed so it was important that all the work kept the integrity of the building while ensuring it’s in the best condition to continue as a thriving village hall at the heart of the community.”

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “The Old School Room is a very important building not just for Haworth but also for the nation.

“It’s a crucial part of the district’s literary heritage, as well as a community hub and I am delighted that money from the Keighley Towns Fund has been able to secure and protect the fabric of the building well into the future.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: The Old School Room in HaworthThe Old School Room in Haworth (Image: Bradford Council)

Chair of Keighley Towns Fund Ian Hayfield said: “We are pleased to have been able to support the restoration of this historic building, which is still very well-used and well-loved to this day. The variety of projects supported by the Towns Fund is incredible and each one contributes to our area in a uniquely positive way.”

The grade II listed Old School Room was built by Patrick Bronte in 1832 and was extended in 1850 and 1871. As well as working there as a teacher, Charlotte’s wedding reception was held there in 1854.

It was replaced as a school in 1903, but continued to function as a community building, being used for a variety of purposes, including a gymnasium, a library, a youth hostel and even an army billet during the Second World War.