If you’re looking to start the new decade with a much-needed dose of tranquillity, you could do worse than escaping to the peaceful English countryside. And now, a unique new accommodation has opened to the public – a replica railway carriage built along the West Somerset Railway Line that allows guests to spot vintage stream trains as they glide past.
Available to book through Independent Cottages, the Railway Carriage has been carefully designed to replicate a vintage passenger car, and includes two bedrooms that can sleep up to four people. While built to look old, the carriage has modern, eco-friendly features that make it comfortable for modern travellers.
Guests enter through a covered veranda before walking through glass doors to the living area, decked out with two leather sofas that look onto the West Somerset railway line. The property also includes a dining area and an open plan shaker-style kitchen. At the back of the carriages one bedroom has a king-sized bed while the other has two singles. Outside, a sheltered seating area provides guests with space to have a glass of wine or breakfast on warmer days, while across from the veranda there is a heated hot tub.
There are plenty of options to explore the great outdoors in the area too. Exmoor National Park and the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are both nearby, as are beaches in Somerset and North Devon that have cycling routes. A local farm store sells locally sourced produce such as meat, cheese and cider.
“The Railway Carriage is one of the only accommodations of its kind in the UK. It’s unique and gives guests a special stay that many holidaymakers are longing for. They’re looking for something different from their holidays, past their chosen destination, and an unusual property such as the railway carriage keeps their trip interesting,” Sarah Jarvis, owner of Independent Cottages told Lonely Planet.
The West Somerset Railway Line runs for over 22 miles, taking vintage steam trains from Minehead to Bishop’s Lydeard. The historic rides are open to guests, who can travel from Somerset to the coast.
Prices start from £125 (€146) per night with a two-night minimum stay.
More information on The Railway Carriage is available at the official Independent Cottages website.
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