A couple bought a disused railway station and renovated a coach into a 1960s vintage retreat – which train enthusiasts can book for £202-a-night staycation.
Owners Cecilia, 50, and her husband Paul, 60, purchased Rowden Mill Station, in Bromyard, North Herefordshire, after searching for a year to find a unique location to build a holiday let business.
The once derelict station - which closed in 1953 - was renovated by a family before Cecilia and Paul moved in, but the couple updated a building and parcel office ready for guests.
After buying an 18-litre saloon railway coach, they refurbished the interior in a vintage style and fitted it with 1960s furniture - opening for holidaymakers in July 2022.
Cecilia, part-owner of the Rowden Mill Station, from Bredenbury, Herefordshire, said: "We were certainly looking for somewhere with character. Finding the station was amazing. We're caretakers of the place."
Cecilia and Paul stumbled across the railway station in 2017 and couldn't believe their luck.
They spent a year renovating what was originally a parcel office and the station building that passengers waited for trains in.
The station still has the existing canopy and guests enter the station building through what was the booking office.
The ladies' waiting area is now a main bedroom, with a bunk room off to the side.
What do you think of the train carriage home? Let us know in the comments below.
In October 2020, Cecilia and Paul couldn't believe their luck when a Saloon Coach DB 999508 came up for sale.
Cecilia said: "We couldn't resist. It came back as an empty shell."
The couple spent 21 months restoring the coach - which had been painted on the outside but an "empty shell" inside. The pair sourced antique furniture to be in keeping with the history of the coach - which had been used by railway engineers.
The coach sleeps four and guests can stay for £405 for two nights - and also includes a £100 deposit. The station also has a studio space for two called the parcel office - which can be booked for £205 for a weekend.
The station building sleeps four from £405 for two nights. Cecilia and Paul are also renovating a GWR brake van for further guests to stay in.
It's not the only quirky property you can hire for a holiday in the UK. For example there are heaps of amazing UK castles you can book for stays or entire pubs you can hire with mates complete with their own bars and games rooms.
The UK's best holiday homes for 2023 were also revealed earlier this year complete with private chefs, hot tubs and beach views, for a holiday that's sure to be unforgettable.
Or of course you could hire a home right by one of the UK's prettiest beaches that are worthy of the Caribbean with their white sands, crystal waters and spectacular landscapes.
If you're after more inspiration you may also want to check out our UK holidays guide with all the latest news, tips and recommendations we think you'll love.
Do you have a quirky or unique holiday home you want to shout about? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
