Former UK Railway Station Transformed into Luxurious £200-a-Night Airbnb

A former railway station in Saddleworth, Greater Manchester, has been transformed into an upscale Airbnb rental, thanks to the dedication of train enthusiast Nigel Brooke. The once-abandoned Delph railway station now offers a unique accommodation experience in a restored 1895 Great Western Railway carriage, available for £200 per night.

The restoration process, which cost a total of £27,000, allowed visitors to once again board a train at the historic site, even though passenger services ceased in the 1950s. Nigel, now 68, has meticulously revived the old carriage, ensuring it reflects its original glory while incorporating modern amenities.

A Journey Through Time: The Restoration Process

The exterior of the restored carriage has been carefully painted to match its original colors based on historical drawings and charts. Inside, guests are treated to a blend of period wallpaper and contemporary features, including a comfortable bed and a stove. Nigel, a retired wallpaper designer, played a pivotal role in creating the interior decor, stating, “I designed all that interior decor, but it was led by original pieces that I found during the restoration.”

Originally built in 1895 in Swindon, the carriage served on the Metropolitan Railway before being decommissioned in 1940. During the war, it was painted in dark colors, which led to its decline into a workman’s carriage. Nigel invested £8,000 to purchase the carriage, which was then transported from Gloucester to its new home at Delph station.

The restoration journey was not without its challenges. Nigel discovered that one side of the carriage had been covered in tin to protect it, likely added in the mid-20th century. Fortunately, the oak frame remained in good condition. He detailed the process: “What I had to do was take each piece off carefully that was rotten and replicate it and rebuild it, using the original bits.”

Expanding Accommodation Options for Guests

Now that the carriage has been restored, Nigel plans to expand his Airbnb offerings by converting the former waiting room of the station into additional guest accommodation. This will allow larger groups to enjoy their stay, with plans for an ensuite bathroom to accommodate their needs. He remarked, “I may turn one of the waiting rooms into an Airbnb with an ensuite, so when people stay in this carriage, if they’ve got friends, they can stay in the waiting room at the station house.”

The historical charm of the station has captivated visitors, with many expressing their appreciation for the unique experience it offers. Nigel expressed his delight in sharing the station’s history with guests, noting, “People absolutely adore it. There’s a lot of history here. It’s a beautiful place.”

Reflecting on his journey, Nigel feels fortunate to have acquired the property in the 1980s. He said, “It is beautiful, and it’s quite unique here. I bought this place in the 80s when I was in my 30s. I was quite lucky to acquire such a nice old historic building.” His passion for preserving the past while providing a modern experience has turned Delph railway station into a remarkable destination for travelers seeking something special.