One of UK's oldest private schools once attended by John Lennon's son is put up for sale for £5million after shock closure

A 742-year-old private school that survived plagues, civil war and two world wars before finally being forced to close has been put on the market for £5million.Ruthin School, a 201-pupil private school in Denbighshire, North Wales, closed its doors in July amid Labour's VAT raids and mounting financial pressures. Students were told about the closure just before the final lesson of term ahead of the summer break and its subsequent entry into administration.Parents were given renewed hope in March 2023 when new owners acquired the school and injected £6.4million over three years. Full boarding fees also rose from £45,690 in 2024-25 to £54,828 in 2025-26.But the centuries-old school continued to lose money and incurred losses of £955,000 and £911,000 in 2021 and 2022.Ruthin School can trace its origins back to 1284 and was subsequently re-opened in 1574 by Gabriel Goodman, Dean of Westminster.In 1893, the school moved from the vicinity of the church to a building designed by John Douglas on its site on the outskirts of the town.Originally a school for boys, it has been co-educational since 1990, and boasts a string of successful ex-pupils, including John Lennon's son Julian in the 1980s. Ruthin School, a 201-pupil private school in Denbighshire, North Wales, closed its doors in July amid Labour's VAT raids and mounting financial pressures Originally a school for boys, it has been co-educational since 1990, and boasts a string of successful ex-pupils, including John Lennon's son Julian in the 1980s The sprawling estate features 12 buildings, a sports field, and 24 acres of agricultural landDavid Murray, a partner with Sanderson and Weatherall's asset advisory and recovery team, is leading the sale of the school. He said buyers had the 'unique opportunity' to acquire an estate with the option to continue its educational legacy or pursue alternative development. The sprawling 13.7acre estate features 12 buildings, a sports field, woodland and more than 24 acres of agricultural land. It also has a dining hall, science block, additional classroom accommodation, sports hall, storage facilities and boarding houses. Philip Watkins and Simon Farr from FRP Advisory have been appointed as administrators for the school. An administrator's report said the school was 'forecast to suffer further material losses', with large numbers of departing sixth form students not being replaced. More than 100 private schools have closed as a growing number of families are priced out of the sector following the introduction of VAT on private school fees.Figures show there are now 526,611 pupils in private schools, down from 556,551 two years ago. The bulk of the decrease - 20,000 pupils - came in the last year alone. Ruthin School can trace its origins back to 1284 and was subsequently re-opened in 1574 by Gabriel Goodman, Dean of Westminster It has a dining hall, science block, additional classroom accommodation and a sports hall In 1893, the school moved from the vicinity of the church to a building designed by John Douglas on its site on the outskirts of the townThe data comes from the annual January census of the Independent Schools Council (ISC), which represents the majority of private schools. The data shows pupil numbers are down by 6.6 per cent in some year groups.There are fewer families choosing to enrol at the start of primary, prep school or sixth form - suggesting new starters are being deterred.Pupil numbers fell across all regions, with the largest decline recorded in the North East at 6.4 per cent, followed by Wales at 6 per cent and Scotland at 5.6 per cent. Labour originally said the sector would shrink by only 37,000 pupils as a result of the policy - but this may now prove to be an underestimate.Deputy mayor of Denbighshire, Councillor Anne Roberts, said of the school's closure: 'It's very sad news. I am still reeling. It's huge for Ruthin. They are one of the biggest employers. For the local economy, it will have a real effect. It's hard to believe.'The school's listing reads: 'Overlooking an area of outstanding natural beauty, the main campus features a Grade II Listed period building on grounds of over 18 acres, housing expansive boarding accommodation, and substantial sports facilities. 'Included within the broader estate is additional 24 acres agricultural Land, residential properties and separate 30 bed boarding house in Ruthin Town Centre.'The Daily Mail has contacted Ruthin School and FRP Advisory for comment. READ MORE: Sending my children to private school means I always have to scrimp, save and make do. These are my best tips to keep the costs down...