Carriage 101

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An expertly-restored ambulance carriage from World War Two, complete with vintage-style décor and an al fresco bathtub, peacefully secluded in lush West Sussex countryside that’s close to the coast.
  • Sleeps: 6
  • Bedrooms: 2
  • Bathrooms: 1.5
  • Minimum stay: 2 nights

Boasting first-class accommodation, Carriage 101 is stopped in a peaceful West Sussex hamlet that’s in-between Chichester and the Witterings… with beautiful rural views that won’t rush by in a blur!

A former ambulance train carriage used during World War Two, the space has since been beautifully transformed into a vintage-inspired haven for up to four adults and two children. Well-behaved pets are also welcome to stay.

Ideal for families, the cosy and colourful living area – complete with a TV for evening entertainment – can be converted into a sleeping space for up to two small children. The adults get to curl up in a kingsize or double bed, both dressed in top-quality linen and primed for sound nights of slumber.

Savour your first coffee of the day out on the patio, against a soundtrack of whispering leaves and birdsong, before rustling up a delicious breakfast in the carriage’s well-equipped kitchenette.

Later on, you’ll get to enjoy the sunset over a sizzling barbecue, perhaps accompanied by a glass of fizz and an indulgent bubble-soak in the sheltered al-fresco bathtub to help you welcome the stars in style!

(Don’t worry if outdoor bathing isn’t for you, as there’s also a spacious indoor bathroom with a freestanding roll-top tub – and with a second en-suite toilet also on hand, there’ll be no awkward queues).

What to do with all that precious holiday downtime? While no-one would blame you for simply curling up with a good book and getting lost in all that natureful scenery, there’s plenty to see and do in the local area.

Keep reading

At a glance

  • An exquisitely-restored World War Two ambulance train carriage, secluded in the leafy West Sussex hamlet of Batchmere between Chichester and The Witterings.
  • Perfect for families, the vintage-styled carriage sleeps up to 4 adults and 2 children in two bedrooms and a child-sized sofa bed in the lounge.
  • Well-behaved pets are also permitted to stay.
  • Full self-contained facilities include a well-equipped kitchenette, a spacious bathroom, and a separate en-suite WC.
  • There is ample outside space to relax in, with a sheltered courtyard and patio area with barbecue, firepit, and bathtub.
  • There is a public footpath nearby, and plenty of shops and attractions close by.

Features

  • Dog Friendly
  • Family Friendly
  • Off-Grid
  • Seaside Breaks

Facilities

Living area with bright vintage-style décor, sofa bed for 1-2 small children, TV, kitchenette with two-ring electric hob, microwave, toaster, kettle, fridge with small freezer, cafetiere. Master kingsize bedroom, double bedroom with en-suite WC and sink, all linen and towels provided. Bathroom with freestanding roll-top bathtub, WC, sink, vintage mirror. Outdoor space with dining furniture, barbecue and firepit, patio area, sheltered bathtub. Free private parking for one car.

Local activities

Walking, cycling, wildlife-watching, picnic spots, independent shops, markets, restaurants, cafés, historic sites, beaches, swimming, watersports.

 

More information

You could start by packing a picnic and taking the winding public footpath nearby, on which you’ll find some delightful spots to stop awhile and admire the serene country views… ideal if you’ve brought your dog along for a well-deserved holiday!

But if you’re missing the bright lights and bustle of the city, nearby Chichester is filled with Grade II-listed buildings and an 11th century cathedral to explore, along with beautiful gardens, plentiful places to dine, and an array of independent shops to weave in and out of.

You could also pay a sandy visit to The Witterings – twin villages named East and West Wittering – affectionally known as ‘God’s Pocket’ due to its combined status as the sunniest spot in England. For an extra treat, take the meandering coastal path from East Wittering into Bracklesham Bay, with its excellent surfing and magnificent views to the Isle of Wight.

Things to note

The sofa bed in the living space is for children only. It is recommended that you bring a car for exploring the local area.

Where you'll be staying

Batchmere, West Sussex

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