The Railway Cottage at Lavender Hill

Pack your bags for a special railway adventure at Railway Cottage - a gorgeous Somerset bolt hole built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel himself!

Railway Cottage is a former labourer's (or ganger's) cottage on the West Somerset Steam Railway line, now a wonderful holiday home for up to six people.  Oozing charm and character, the cottage's exterior has hardly changed since Brunel built it for the gangers working on his revolutionary railway line.  Inside, however, it has been lovingly restored to offer modern comforts and luxury for a very special holiday. 

The cottage also offers a unique position right on this historic railway line.  Perfect for children, trainspotters, and everyone in between, listen for the unmistakable ‘toots' of the whistle, wave at the passengers on board, and relive part of Britain's history as it chugs on with its journey.

Inside Railway Cottage, you'll find wonderfully cosy rooms decorated in a modern, country style.  Light, airy and welcoming, you and the family will feel at home right away.  You'll first be greeted by the shaker-style kitchen, complete with a Belfast sink, wooden units and stylish granite worktops.  Fully equipped for easy self-catering, it even comes complete with the added luxuries of a dishwasher and washer-dryer. 

The large oak dining table is perfect for enjoying meals together, relaxing with after-dinner drinks, or playing board games with the family.  A cosy wood burner sits in the original fireplace, keeping everyone toasty all year round.  On warmer days though, why not enjoy a BBQ at the front of the cottage, seated beside the railway line?

Leading through from the kitchen, you'll find yourself in the comfy sitting room, where an irresistible leather sofa invites everyone to curl up in front of the plasma TV.  Enjoy views out to the magnificent Quantock Hills, and watch for clouds of steam above the hedgerows as trains approach.

A set of doors from the sitting room take you to the large, enclosed garden, complete with additional outdoor seating.  Children will love to play in this safe place, perhaps spotting buzzards and sparrowhawks above and listening for locomotives around the bend.  And the adults aren't left out of the fun either - a luxurious hot tub is the perfect place to sit back, unwind, and take in this gorgeous area in the most unforgettable way.

As a single-storey cottage, Railway Cottage is ideal for guests with accessibility needs, and the three bedrooms are beautifully decorated to the highest specification.  The Master bedroom is furnished with a king size bed and comes complete with an en-suite shower room and views of the railway.  An adjacent twin room is perfect for children, overlooking the Quantocks, while the third bedroom - also with views of the hills - offers a king size bed.  There's also a cot available if you're traveling with a little one.

Whether you're visiting Railway Cottage for a short break or a longer stay, there's plenty to do in this fabulous area.  Enjoy energetic walks in the hills or a more relaxing ride on the railway itself.  Dunster and its famous castle are also in easy distance, as are the caves at Cheddar and Wookey Hole.  And with the South West known for its excellent weather, there's no better place to enjoy it than at the beach, from riding waves in North Devon to hunting fossils on the Jurassic Coast.

In all, this beautiful home in the peaceful countryside couldn't be more perfect. You don't have to be a trainiac to fall in love with Railway Cottage - this little piece of Somerset history will have everyone smitten.  

Things to note

Minimum booking period is either a three night weekend break- Friday to Monday or a four night midweek break Monday to Friday. Friday to Friday full week breaks also available.

Not suitable for wheelchairs, dogs welcome by prior arrangement, hen parties accepted, catering packages available, see website for details, check-in 16:00.