In 2002, Steve and Lisa fell in love with Coalport Station and decided there and then to become the station masters!
They left the rat race of life in the London suburbs to become proud owners of Coalport Station Holidays! Located in the heart of Shropshire, this disused country railway station has two platforms, a waiting room, and 3 acres of land, overlooking a picturesque river setting nestled within the World Heritage site of the Ironbridge Gorge.
Moving from the fast-paced lifestyle of the London suburbs to the peaceful surroundings of Shropshire, Steve and Lisa have adjusted to a much slower pace of life and it's been nothing short of wonderful. They no longer wear watches and enjoy the absence of modern-day annoyances, such as road traffic, trains, and overhead aircraft noise (unless they're visiting RAF Cosford of course!). Instead, they listen to the sounds of nature, like the badgers, deer, and owls!
The Shropshire lifestyle has also attracted some of their family and close friends to the area! Steve and Lisa find that Shropshire and Coalport Station embrace the present and the past perfectly and it is a joy to share it with everyone who visits. The converted train carriages have all the modern luxuries people look for while being wrapped up in a vintage setting - perfect for train enthusiasts!
Our unusual holiday breaks offer a relaxing and peaceful getaway, nestled in the heart of Shropshire with lots to do on the doorstep. Enjoy good food at the local pubs and restaurants in and around Ironbridge or explore the stunning countryside walks and cycle routes that Shropshire has to offer.
Our two lovingly converted railway carriage holiday homes offer a unique and quirky place to stay in the Ironbridge Gorge with a rural and peaceful setting.
Coalport Railway Station was originally part of the Severn Valley Railway (SVR). 2 stations North-West of Bridgnorth, it then became part of the Great Western Railway (GWR). In 1963 it closed, however, the buildings of the Station Masters House, the Waiting rooms, and the opposite platform ticket office still remain, together with the original platforms.
One known station master of Coalport was a gentleman called William Charles Weyman. He took up the position of Station Master at Coalport in October 1899, at the age of 42, where his wages were 30 shillings (£1.50) a week! It was not known exactly when he retired but it was probably 100 years ago in 1923.
Both carriages were brought to site by road. A lorry and trailer 100 ft in length and weighing 78 tons! The journey took 2 days to travel the 150 miles required. Our carriages were originally built at Derby for the Western Region of British rail. Carriage 1 was originally built in 1961, with Carriage 2 being built a year later (1962).
