Our favourite railway carriage holidays in the UK

Accommodation, Romantic breaks, Vintage Holidays

Posted by Ed Roberts on 21st August 2023

Our favourite railway carriage holidays in the UK

Fancy a railway carriage holiday? A staycation at one of our more unique properties is definitely enticing and offers something a little different from the norm.

With some imagination and design ingenuity, the property owners have turned old hardworking rolling stock into some very delightful and popular holiday homes, all in great locations around the UK. A wonderful second lease of life has been awarded to these converted railway carriages now that they are exciting and inspiring self-catering holiday cottages.

If you love railways as we do, we also have properties close to many of our national parks’ heritage railways and beyond. We have selected our favourite train carriage holidays in the UK for you to see. Read on to discover your next holiday adventure or click the button below to browse our entire holiday cottages collection. 

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Bodiam train carriage duo

Two beautiful showman carriages in rural Sussex

If you are looking for more than one converted railway carriage to stay at, then this pair of delightful artisanal holiday homes is sure to impress you. Located close to Bodiam Castle in 1066 Country, you could book one or the pair of these fantastic, lovingly restored, and designed properties. 

Each of them is a former showman’s carriage, so choose a blissful Sussex holiday in The Prince Regent, and/or The Sir Paul Gooderham - see below.


The Prince Regent | sleeps: 2 guests + 2 dogs

The Prince Regent | sleeps 2 guests + 2 dogs

Characterised by its charming mahogany woodwork and ornate mirrors, this carriage was once a fairground owner’s home that was built in the 1890s. Packed with period trappings, there are a few modern additions to make life easier like a mock wood burner and a wet room. Cosy is the word at this enticing bolthole for two guests.

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The Sir Paul Goodman | sleeps: 2 guests + 2 dogs

The Sir Paul Gooderham | sleeps 2 guests + 2 dogs 

This former railway carriage has been lovingly updated to give comfort to two guests plus two dogs. With views of the surrounding Sussex countryside from its covered veranda, it’s relaxation all the way at this railway carriage accommodation. Perfect for romantics, this has alluring rooms to hide away inside together. It’s just perfect.

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The Railway Carriage, Norfolk | sleeps 2 guests + 2 dogs

The Railway Carriage, Norfolk | sleeps 2 guests + 2 dogs 

Go back to basics with this wonderfully restored railway carriage

Set in a beautiful paddock, surrounded by trees, this romantic Victorian railway carriage for two offers you a peaceful getaway like no other. A host of original features will whisk you back in time, with old signs, brass fixtures, and stained glass light fittings decorating the carriage, while a Smart TV and charming kitchen ensure you have all the comforts of the 21st century for a relaxing stay. 

Just lie back and enjoy this bijou getaway in Norfolk for two. Find out what else to do on your getaway with our guide to Norfolk

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Stonihoe, Kent | sleeps 4 guests + 1 dog

Stonihoe, Kent | sleeps 4 guests + 1 dog 

Railway carriage holidays in a unique desert location by the sea

Although the mysterious Stonihoe doesn’t resemble a railway carriage from the outside, once inside, you can see many restored remnants. A former train carriage makes up the central section of this exceptional holiday home situated on Dungeness in Kent, Europe’s largest shingle bank and the UK’s only desert. Its views over the English Channel and location on a uniquely beautiful private estate, make this a winner for small families. Dungeness is one of the best beaches in Kent - find out which other coastal places and beaches you can visit during your stay in the area.

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Three Hares Carriage, Devon | sleeps 2 guests

Three Hares Carriage, Devon | sleeps 2 guests 

An idyllic, eco-friendly retreat on a rewilded plot in Devon

In 16 private acres of rewilded Devon countryside, Three Hares Carriage will make you rethink your definition of holiday bliss. Run on 100% renewable energy, this railway carriage holiday property is in a class of its own. It’s also well-positioned for day trips to the Haldon Hills, Exeter, and Dartmoor National Park for long walks.

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The Goods Wagon, North Yorkshire | sleeps 2 guests

The Goods Wagon, North Yorkshire | sleeps 2 guests

Lovingly restored goods wagon at a former station

Located in the Nidderdale AONB in North Yorkshire, this cute railway carriage holiday home is situated at a former railway station on the Nidd Valley Railway. The restored goods wagon has all the trappings of a cosy holiday bolthole for two, with a restful bed and cosy furnishings. The property is close to lots of the local landmarks such as Brimham Rocks, Pen-y-Ghent, and more to discover.

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Stay at a self-catering holiday cottage

We have many more self-catering holiday cottages that are near to the UK’s heritage railways. Many operate services of steam and old diesel trains run by volunteers in some of the most beautiful parts of England, Scotland, and Wales. Other holiday homes are simply close to the former routes of old railways where, in some cases, you can find long-distance walking trails too.

If holidaying in a unique property with an interesting past or a curious design or location means a lot to you, we have a great selection of self-catering holiday accommodation to interest you. Visit our collection today for unique holiday properties in the UK.

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Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.