A couple in Cambridgeshire has triumphed in a planning battle to utilise a converted Great Western Railway (GWR) carriage as a unique holiday let. Andrea Pearman, aged 53, and Richard Coleman, aged 65, spent two years renovating the former railway coach into a charming rural staycation spot available for £175 per night. The carriage, located in Little Downham, Cambs, retains many original features like seats, windows, luggage racks, and even an emergency stop handle, giving guests a nostalgic experience. Their project was highlighted on an episode of Channel 4’s “George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces.”
Initially, the couple faced rejection for retrospective planning permission in 2022 from the East Cambridgeshire District Council, citing concerns about the location’s sustainability. However, after demonstrating a growing demand as guests flocked to experience the carriage, the council reviewed a new application. In a surprising turn of events, the council approved the permissions in March, acknowledging the popularity and uniqueness of the accommodation. Ms. Pearman expressed her joy at the victory, saying, “Winning the planning application was quite monumental.”
Split into two rooms – the Penzance suite accommodating four guests and the Paddington suite for two – the GWR carriage offers modern amenities such as a hot tub, air conditioning, bathroom, shower, and a private garden area. Ms. Pearman and Mr. Coleman originally intended to convert a boat into a holiday let but opted for the railway carriage, purchased at £3,000, due to logistical challenges. Following extensive renovations, the couple opened their luxury retreat in 2022, attracting a steady stream of guests.
The renovation process involved meticulous attention to detail, including redesigning the bathroom and preserving the train’s authentic charm. Every effort was made to retain and repurpose original features, with surplus materials donated to a local heritage line for conservation purposes. From repurposing fittings for a television set to creating unique outdoor furniture from water tanks, the couple invested time and money into restoring the carriage to its former glory.
Despite the challenges faced, including high costs for transportation and refurbishment, the couple persevered in realising their dream project. Their dedication and commitment to preserving the railway heritage have garnered positive feedback from guests, with many returning to relive the nostalgia of train travel. Ms. Pearman shared anecdotes of guests, including former railway employees and train enthusiasts, who were delighted by the authentic experience offered by the converted carriage.
The success of Pearman and Coleman’s endeavour serves as a testament to their resilience and creativity in transforming a disused railway carriage into a sought-after holiday destination. By overcoming planning obstacles and showcasing the appeal of their unique accommodation, the couple has not only created a memorable experience for guests but also contributed to the preservation of railway history. The popularity of their project underscores the growing trend of unconventional holiday lets, appealing to visitors seeking distinctive and immersive travel experiences.