Railway Carriage

For those wanting a different holiday, reminiscent of the great seaside holidays of the 1950’s here’s an opportunity to climb aboard a recently refurbished 100-year-old Great Western Railway camping coach.

Located in a quiet siding at the Blue Anchor Station on the West Somerset Railway Line, a short stroll from the long, wide sand and shingle beach, guests can experience the authenticity and carefree days of the GWR camping coach holidays, but with the advantage of modern facilities.

Blue Anchor station is part of the picturesque West Somerset Steam Railway, where families and steam enthusiasts can enjoy the nostalgia of a bygone era of travel as well as involve themselves in the many themed events scheduled throughout the year (see their website for details).

Sleeping 6, this comfortable carriage, presented in a classic seaside style is ideally placed to explore West Somerset, North Devon and Exmoor, which is only a mile and a half from the carriage, including Dunster Castle, Porlock, Doniford fossil beach as well as Lynton and Lynmouth.

Jump on the steam train and puff your way along a beautiful stretch of coastline to the seaside town of Minehead with all its attractions, including the South West coastal footpath.

Other places of interest include the ancient small harbour town of Watchet, Cleeve Abbey, the Bakelite Museum and some of the best cream tea places in Britain.

Nearby there’s a small seasonal shop selling the basics (Holburne Blue Anchor Shop), 2 pubs serving food and drinks and the Dirftwood Cafe, serving delicious fresh cooked meals, including local fish, teas and cakes is a short walk away. Minehead, with all the amenities of a seaside town and its sandy beach is a short drive away.

VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

The Camping Coach is located on a siding on a working railway.

For your own safety, please do not stray onto the railway and please make sure that young children are supervised at all times, especially if they leave the immediate area of the carriage.

It is VERY strongly advised NOT to crawl under the carriage as you will almost certainly bump something. Also, always take care on the stairs up to the carriage.

Neither the owners or Toad Hall Cottages will be held responsible for the safety of anyone not obeying these simple rules.

Please note: West Somerset Railway resuming services in March 2022. Please check their website for the latest information.

The Railway Carriage still provides a great base for visiting and exploring this delightful area.

Outside

No real outside seating space, although the step platform is a nice place to sit and catch the sun. Steps lead down to parking area.

The local area

Minehead is where Exmoor meets the sea and sits on the edge of the Exmoor National Park. Ideal for lovers of the coast and countryside, the town offers traditional seaside fun with its promenade and mile-long sand and pebble beach, and wonderful views of the Bristol Channel.

The South West Coast Path begins in Minehead, on the quayside, before winding its way around 630 miles of glorious coastline. North Hill, where Exmoor National Park begins, dominates the town and its green slopes can be seen for miles around. It is just a short walk from the centre of town so without venturing far you can enjoy the countryside and even spot red deer and Exmoor ponies.

Popular local activities include fishing trips, boat trips from the harbour to the unspoilt Lundy Island, a visit to the nearby medieval village of Dunster for its ancient castle, stunning gardens and traditional tea rooms, and day trips to the pretty coastal harbour towns of Lynton and Lynmouth. Meanwhile,a day pass for nearby Butlins will keep the kids entertained on days when the beach doesn’t appeal.

A holiday cottage in Minehead is the perfect base for those looking for a coastal holiday with a healthy dose of moorland life just a stone's throw away.

Parking

Parking: Parking area beside carriage, not designated.

Please Note: During West Somerset Railway attractions (see their website) parking will become restricted, but there will always be parking available on the coastal road, not far from the carriage.

Electric Cars: Please note that this property does not have suitable facilities for charging electric vehicles.

Additional information

Included: Bed linen, towels, electricity and electric heating (panel heater in living area, plinth fan heaters in kitchen and fan heaters in bedrooms). Wi-Fi.

Telephone: No landline telephone available however mobile reception is good.

Electric Cars: Please note that this property does not have suitable facilities for charging electric vehicles.

Local facilities: Beach a short stroll away. Two pubs, café and seasonal shop (Holburne Blue Anchor Shop) all close by. Minehead with all facilities 6 miles.

Smoking/Vaping: Not permitted.

Short Breaks: Available in March, April (excluding Easter) and October.

Very Important: The Camping Coach is located on a siding on a working railway. For your own safety, please do not stray onto the railway and please make sure that young children are supervised at all times, especially if they leave the immediate area of the carriage.It is VERY strongly advised NOT to crawl under the carriage as you will almost certainly bump something. Also, always take care on the stairs up to the carriage. Neither the owners or Toad Hall Cottages will be held responsible for the safety of anyone not obeying these simple rules.

Pets: Regret no pets.

Access Statement: may not be suitable for some elderly guests. Access statement available on request

Please note: West Somerset Railway – Please check their website for the latest information.

Please note: West Somerset Railway – Please check their website for the latest information.