Self Catering Camping Coaches at Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

About

If you fancy staying somewhere different and fancy the thought of staying in a fabulously restored luxury Pullman railway coach, then this is for you.

Originally built in 1917 as part of a World War One Ambulance Train, ‘Elmira’ and ‘Maid of Kent’  are the UK’s oldest Railway ‘Camping Coaches’ still in their original location - uniquely situated at Ravenglass, in a coastal setting within two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Lake District National Park and Hadrian’s Wall (Frontiers of the Roman Empire).

The innovative transformation of these two historically important vehicles into striking new accommodation for up to 6 persons has preserved many of the carriages’ original highly-crafted features.

There are two coaches available, 'Elvira' and 'Maid of Kent'.

Elmira - Capacity: 4; Bedrooms: 2; Bathrooms: 2.

Maid of Kent - Capacity: 4; Bedrooms: 2; Bathrooms: 2.

The coaches sleep 4-6 guests (4 adults and 2 children maximum) in 1 double room and 1 zip linked twin room. A 'bed in a box' is available in the lounge area and there is also room for travel cot in the master bedroom (cot not supplied).

Both coaches offer elegance, comfort, and a sense of nostalgia. You do not need to be a train enthusiast to appreciate the splendour and importance of these very special camping coaches. Here is a short summary:

Entrance: Steps lead up to the entrance vestibule, ample space for coats and walking boots.

Kitchen: The compact yet fully equipped kitchen offers everything you might need for those cosy nights in including a two-ring electric enamel hob, electric countertop oven and grill, microwave, fridge with a freezer box, full size sink and drainer. There is also a kettle and toaster, cutlery, and crockery, plus plenty of storage.

Lounge: What makes this room extra special are the original Pullman seats which have been reupholstered and are a reminder of the carriage’s past life. Now, they form part of the dining area which comfortably seats 4-6 people. As you enjoy a meal with family and friends, it’s easy to imagine you are gently rolling along the tracks.  And for convenience, there is a set of three mahogany tables and pull-out extra ‘bed in a box’ single bed. Modern features include a TV with FreeSat and WiFi. There are several plug/USB sockets throughout the property. There is an electric wood burning stove and electric heating to keep you warm during the cooler nights and colder seasons. 

Main bathroom: The white modern suite includes a vanity sink, toilet, and shower, plus a heated towel rail.

Second bedroom: The compact second bedroom which comprises of twin beds with central bolster and a three shelve unit for storage. If you prefer, these beds can be zipped together to form a king size bed.

Master en suite: Sitting quietly at the far end of the carriage is the master en suite bedroom. Come nightfall, retreat to this comfortable room, and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep in the double bed. There is plenty of hanging space, including a coat stand, shelves, as well as room under the bed for bags or suitcases.

Outside area: Just beside the entrance to the front of Elmira is your own paved patio area with seating. Enjoy alfresco dining as the sun goes down over the Railway for the day. And behind the carriage, you will find a grassed area overlooking the line. This area is shared with the guests staying in Maid of Kent Pullman Camping Coach next door.  

Additional features: Dog Friendly - Parking for one car - USB points and power points throughout. Price includes travel on the Ravenglass & Railway for the duration of your stay on scheduled services - Towels and bed linen included.

The story of the coaches

The story of the ‘Carriages off the Rails’ dates back to after World War I where they were used as ‘homes for heroes’. Some became animal shelters and barns, while other redundant carriages in attractive locations – often coastal – were turned into affordable holiday accommodation linked to the railways in the 1930s. During World War II, many were pressed into the war effort.

By 1958, they saw a revival as British Railways were able to offer ‘delightful inexpensive holidays’ in more than 130 locations. Branch line closures following the Beeching Report, combined with cheaper overseas travel in the 1970s meant many of the carriages did not survive.

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