Railway stays: inspiring accommodation for train lovers
2025 marks the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, with events taking place up and down the country in celebration of the year the world changed forever.
If you’re looking for somewhere to immerse yourself in the rich history of British railways during this landmark year, then look no further than our selection of railway-themed self-catering properties, including two former train stations and a Station Agent's House on the world's first inter-city passenger line.
The Station Agent’s House
Where: Manchester
Sleeps: 4 or 8
A true beacon of railway history, the Station Agent’s House sits beside the world’s first purpose-built inter-city passenger station, Liverpool Road, which opened in 1830. Originally home to the station’s first agent, Joseph Green, the house played a central role in the early development of train travel – where concepts like ticket offices and waiting rooms first took shape.
Now part of Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum, the Grade I-listed building has been carefully restored and reopened as holiday accommodation, with interiors that evoke the 1930s and the golden age of steam. The house offers a thoughtful balance of heritage and modern comfort, with lifts between floors and energy-efficient design. Guests can book the whole house or a reduced four-person option at a lower rate. Staying here is an opportunity to be fully immersed in the very origins of the railway age, in the heart of a forward-looking city.
Explore the Station Agent’s House
Alton Station
Where: Alton, Staffordshire
Sleeps: 8
Tucked away in the enchanting Churnet Valley near the village of Alton, this carefully restored former railway station was originally built in 1849 for the North Staffordshire Railway. Designed in a style befitting the Earl of Shrewsbury, then owner of nearby Alton Towers, and used to ferry day trippers visiting from the Potteries, it fell into disuse in the 1960s, after the branch line closed. We rescued the buildings and restored the Station Master’s House the following decade and, in 2008, were happily able to refurbish the whole station.
Guests now cook in the former Ladies’ Waiting Room, dine in the main Waiting Room, and shower in the Lamp or Porters’ Room. The Ticket Office is a double bedroom, and the Station Master’s House offers a cosy library and further rooms. Original features remain throughout – Minton floor tiles, ticket office fittings, and London, Midland and Scottish Railway colours – while the old track is now a scenic path for walkers and cyclists. Alton Castle, reconstructed by the Pugins, rises out of the trees across the valley, and with walks nearby and Alton Towers just minutes away, you can make your stay here as thrilling as you choose.
Coed y Bleiddiau
Where: Near Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd
Sleeps: 8
Set deep in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, this former railway superintendent’s home sits beside a remote halt on the historic Ffestiniog Railway and offers a rare chance to stay in a railway cottage with its own private platform.
Built in 1863 and accessible either by steam train (if timed right) or a short walk from the nearest road, the cottage is enveloped by woodland and mountain scenery. Once part of the slate industry’s pioneering transport network, the line was later restored by volunteers and now offers one of Britain’s most scenic journeys. The cottage itself is cosy and atmospheric, built from local stone with thick walls and low eaves, designed for warmth and shelter. Past guests include composer Sir Granville Bantock and explorer Jack Philby. A bucket-list stay for rail enthusiasts, and a peaceful escape into the heart of Welsh industrial heritage.
Events and activities are taking place throughout this year in celebration of Railway 200. Find events near our railway themed properties at the Railway 200 website.
