Hunt House, originally known as New House, was constructed in 1901 and is a prominent feature of the Rydal Penrhos School campus.

Facing the historic Old House building, it is the only structure proudly displaying the ‘RS’ initials as part of its façade. The building’s exterior, constructed from the same local stone as much of the campus, complements its surroundings while maintaining its own unique character.

One of Hunt House’s most notable features is its retained historic charm. The vaulted ceiling at the top of the stairs and the exquisite mullioned windows are among the original architectural details that still grace the building. Over the years, Hunt House has witnessed countless generations of pupils pass through its classrooms and corridors, each leaving their mark on the school’s history.

In 1914, James Hunt joined Rydal School as a Classics teacher and quickly became a senior master. His long and dedicated service earned him the honour of having New House renamed in his memory after his retirement in 1949. Mr Hunt, a passionate gardener, took particular pride in the flower beds outside the building, which were a beloved feature of the school.

Hunt House has had various roles throughout the years. Initially serving as both a boarding house and a classroom building, it became a hub for academic life after World War II. In the 1960s, the top floor accommodated the Sixth Form Study Rooms, while the lower floors housed the Fourth Form pupils. Hunt House was also home to the iconic Rydal tuck shop, which was later replaced by the current Food Technology rooms. More recently, the Computer Suite was added, which was the primary access point to technology before the school introduced iPads.

In 2024, Hunt House underwent an extensive refurbishment to modernise its facilities, now housing the Senior Humanities and Mathematics classrooms, as well as a newly updated Food Technology room.