New Owners Transform £4 Million House into Holiday Let

A £4 million house near Bath has been transformed into a holiday rental by its new owners, Paul Knight and Justin Snowdon. They won Batheaston House through a £20 ticket in the Omaze Million Pound House Draw earlier this year. While the couple initially dreamed of living in the property, they soon realized that the associated running costs made that impractical. Instead, they opted to share the house with others, allowing them to generate income while still enjoying occasional use of the estate.

Batheaston House, which accommodates up to 12 guests in its six bedrooms, boasts unique features such as a rare Tudor charcoal stove, 17th-century graffiti, and a still-functioning Tudor well. To appeal to modern holidaymakers, the couple has also added amenities like a home cinema and a hot tub. Paul expressed their excitement, stating, “Justin and I were shocked when we found out we’d won Batheaston House… we were adamant that we wanted to share its beauty with other people.”

The couple’s decision reflects a growing trend in the holiday rental market. Paul, who has shifted from DJing and bar management to managing the property, has found the transition rewarding. He noted the support from the Sykes Holiday Cottages team as they navigate their new venture. The property is now available for booking at a rate exceeding £3,838 per week.

Balancing Tourism and Local Housing Concerns

The rise of holiday lets in Bath has sparked debate among local authorities. In November 2023, Councillor Joanna Wright highlighted concerns regarding the impact on local residents, stating, “Whilst we appreciate the economic benefits of tourism, we cannot ignore the toll it takes on our residents.” With over 1,000 listings on platforms like Airbnb, the availability of homes for long-term residents in the city has diminished.

Despite these concerns, a motion to limit holiday rentals was defeated, with 40 votes against and only four in favor. The local government continues to grapple with the balance between promoting tourism and ensuring housing availability for residents.

Paul and Justin’s venture into holiday letting illustrates a unique avenue for reaping the benefits of their prize while contributing to the local economy. As they embark on this new chapter, their story exemplifies the evolving landscape of property ownership and tourism in Bath.