Historic 128-Year-Old Railway Carriage Becomes Stunning Airbnb Stay in England

In a delightful blend of history and hospitality, Nigel Brooke, a 68-year-old retired wallpaper designer, has breathed new life into a 128-year-old Great Western Railway carriage from 1895. Stationed at a former railway stop in England, this vintage gem has been transformed into a luxury Airbnb stay that guests can’t stop raving about, priced at around $260 per night.

Brooke’s passion project, which cost him $35,000, showcases his knack for preserving the past while creating modern comfort. The exterior of the carriage gleams in historically accurate colors pulled from old railway drawings, while the interior boasts period wallpaper, a cozy bed, and a charming stove. It’s not just a stay—it’s a journey back in time, offering a rare glimpse into the elegance of 19th-century travel.

Originally decommissioned in 1940 after running on a metropolitan line, the carriage had fallen into disrepair, painted a dull chocolate brown and used as a static workman’s space. Brooke scooped it up for $10,000, had it transported by road to his property—a historic train station he bought in the 1980s—and meticulously restored it. From replacing rotten oak pieces to aligning it with the station platform for easy access, his attention to detail ensures this piece of history will endure for years to come.

Guests are smitten with the carriage’s unique charm and the rich railway heritage it represents. And Brooke isn’t stopping here—he’s planning to convert the station’s old waiting room into another guest space with an ensuite bathroom, perfect for friends traveling together. As he puts it, 'People absolutely adore it. There’s a lot of history here.' Indeed, this restored relic is a testament to the magic of preserving the past for future adventurers.