We turned an old railway station into a holiday home that rakes in loads – you won’t believe what the bedroom used to be
A CRAFTY couple have revealed how they transformed an abandoned railway station into a stunning 1960s-inspired retreat.
Owners Cecilia, 50, and her hubby Paul, 60, purchased Rowden Mill Station, in Bromyard, North Herefordshire, after looking for a unique spot to open a holiday business.
The station – which saw it doors shut in 1953 – was renovated by a family before the two moved in, but the couple then updated the building for keen guests.
As reported by The Mirror, after buying an 18-litre saloon railway coach, Paul and Cecilia gave the interior a vintage twist and fitted it with 1960s furniture.
After the renovation, the old station was finally opened for holidaymakers in last summer, July 2022.
Speaking of the project, Cecilia, part-owner of the Rowden Mill Station, said: “We were certainly looking for somewhere with character. Finding the station was amazing. We’re caretakers of the place.”
The couple stumbled across the railway station six years ago, in 2017, and couldn’t believe their luck.
But even after the makeover, the building still boasts the original canopy and guests enter the station building through what was the booking office.
The main bedroom, meanwhile, is what used to be the ladies’ waiting area, with a bunk room off to the side.
Cecilia said: “We couldn’t resist. It came back as an empty shell.”
In total, it took the couple 21 months to restore the coach – which had been painted on the outside but an “empty shell” inside.
Keen to keep the history, the pair sourced antique furniture – which had previously been used by railway engineers.
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The coach has plenty of space for four and guests can stay for £405 for two nights – and the price also includes a deposit of £100.
You can also stay at a studio place for a little less at £205 for the weekend.
Meanwhile, the station building sleeps four from £405 for two nights, and the couple are also currently in the works of renovating a GWR brake van for more guests.
Since first opening its door, the holiday let has already become a hit amongst Brits, with dozens giving it a five-star rating on Google.
One happy customer said: ”Lovely place, ideal for a chill out. Lovely scenery.
”The Parcel Room is well equipped but doesn’t have an oven but there is a microwave. We really enjoyed our visit. Would definitely go back.”
A mum chimed in: ”Had a wonderful 3 night stay in the sympathetically converted Saloon Coach with husband, daughter & 9 year old grandson.
”Our stay was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Cecilia & Paul have done an amazing job transforming the coach – it’s spacious whilst being cosy and comfortable with all you need for a highly enjoyable stay.”