Ready to hear about my countryside plot twist? The Old Railway Station review is for anyone who wants an out-of-the-ordinary stay in West Sussex that still feels comfy, charming, and genuinely memorable. At first, I arrived curious. Then, I got excited. And honestly, once I realised I would be sleeping in a restored Pullman carriage, I was fully in my vintage travel era.
The Old Railway Station Review
This is not a standard hotel stay. Instead, you are staying at an old railway station that has been turned into a character-filled retreat, complete with restored Pullman carriages. Because of that, the immersion starts immediately. Also, the setting does a lot of the work for you, so you do not have to “pretend” it is special. It just is.
Moreover, the whole place feels like a living set. You step outside your carriage and you are still in the station world. Therefore, even the simple bits, like walking to breakfast, feel like part of the experience. At the same time, it is not all vibes and nostalgia. In fact, the comfort level is solid, and the hospitality feels thoughtful.
However, there is one big thing to know upfront: the weather matters. So, if you want the full enjoyment without battling temperature drama, you need to time it well. Luckily, I learned that for you.
Where The Old Railway Station is and Why It Works for a Weekend
The Old Railway Station sits in West Sussex, close to Petworth. Therefore, it is perfect for a weekend when you want countryside calm without feeling cut off. Also, it is the kind of location where you can plan a full itinerary, yet you can just as easily do very little and still feel refreshed.
For instance, you can explore Petworth, do a walk, have a pub lunch, and then come back for a slow evening. Alternatively, you can keep it simple: breakfast, a stroll, dinner, bed. Either way, it works. Moreover, because everything is fairly close, you spend less time travelling and more time actually enjoying your stay.
And let’s be realistic, The Old Railway Station bed & breakfast is one of those stays that aren’t just the hotel, but the actual destination.
A Little Station History That Actually Adds to the Stay at The Old Railway Station
I am not going to throw every date at you, because nobody needs a history exam on a weekend away. However, a few details make the experience richer.
The Petworth line was authorised in the mid 19th century, and soon after, an official inspection train travelled through the Sussex countryside. What I love is that early accounts described locals and animals reacting to the steam engine with a mix of fear and fascination, which feels very relatable when you think about how wild new technology must have seemed.
Also, the station sat around a mile and a half south of Petworth, and people originally had to walk from town. Later, there was even an omnibus service to meet trains.
Then the station evolved. The original station was demolished in the late 19th century, and a new wooden structure opened slightly west of the old site. Even though it was wooden, it was built with care and detail, which helps explain why it still feels special today. Moreover, after the rail era ended, the building eventually fell into disrepair. Thankfully, it was rescued and renovated, and later it became a bed and breakfast.
Now here is the part that links directly to your stay: guest accommodation began in 1995 with 2 rooms in the Station House. Later, Pullman carriages arrived and were renovated into rooms, including Alicante (from 1912), Mimosa (from 1914) and Flora and Montana (from 1923). Therefore, when you sleep there now, you are not only “near history.” You are inside it.
Pullman Carriage Rooms at The Old Railway Station: What It Feels Like in Real Life
Let’s be honest, a lot of “unique stays” look better online than they feel in person. However, these Pullmans genuinely deliver. They are brilliantly renovated, yet they still keep essential Pullman details. Because of that, the atmosphere feels authentic.
Also, the immersion goes beyond the carriage. Since you are staying at the old station itself, you are surrounded by period-style details and station décor. Therefore, you keep getting that little thrill of “this is so different” all through the weekend.
At the same time, it still feels practical. In other words, you can enjoy the historic vibe while still having the basics you want for comfort.
My First Night in Flora (1923) at The Old Railway Station
The first night I stayed in Flora from 1923, and I felt excited from the start. At first, it was the novelty. Then, it was the details. And after that, it was the realisation that everything around me, from the platform setting to the carriage interior, was part of the same story.
Also, Flora felt cosy and welcoming, which matters because a quirky room is only fun if you can actually relax in it. Therefore, once I settled in, it became the perfect balance of special and comfortable.
My Second Night in Mimosa (1914) at The Old Railway Station
Then I switched to Mimosa from 1914, and it felt like moving into a different chapter of the same book. Since Mimosa is older, the sense of stepping back in time was even stronger. Also, switching carriages kept the weekend feeling fresh, so it never became “samey.”
Moreover, both carriages kept that Pullman personality. Therefore, even though they were renovated, they still carried that historical presence that made me feel giddy in the best way.
In Room Facilities: The Cosy Bits That Matter
This is what made the stay feel easy, not fussy.
- Kettle, plus a selection of tea, coffee, and hot chocolate
- Welcome biscuits
That might sound simple. However, on a cold countryside weekend, it is exactly what you want. Also, it encourages slower moments. So, instead of rushing out, you can actually sit, sip something warm, and enjoy the carriage atmosphere. This is once thing I appreciated from this uncommon bed & breakfast, everything is made for you to want to stay, reaffirming that this is the destination, not just a place to sleep.
Breakfast: Included, Flexible, and Worth Getting Out of Bed For
Breakfast is included in the price, which is always a win. Also, you get options, which makes it feel even better.
You can choose:
- Breakfast served at your Pullman, continental option only
- Breakfast in the old railway station waiting room, transformed into a dining area, where you can choose continental or a full English
The full English was absolutely delicious and made to order. Therefore, if you like a proper cooked breakfast, go for it. Also, the system is surprisingly thoughtful. The person serving is also the person making breakfast, so they confirm a time with you. Consequently, you avoid long waits, and you start the morning smoothly. It felt attentive, and honestly, it set the tone for the day
Princess Ena Dinner Experience: The Real Highlight
Now for the cherry on the cake. They renovated a Pullman called Princess Ena into a restaurant. And yes, it is as fun and unique as it sounds.
The chef is truly passionate, and you can feel it in the cooking. While I was there, I tried the three-course winter menu, and the beef Wellington was one of the best I have ever had. Therefore, if you love a special meal, you should book it.
If you do not want to stay overnight, you can still do the dinner experience:
- Two-course: £47.50
- Three-course: £55.50
So, even as a standalone plan, it is a great idea for a treat night in Sussex.
To keep you busy during your weekend, here are a few easy activities nearby. Also, they match the slow, scenic energy of the stay.
Petworth House and Park
A classic countryside day out. You can explore the grounds, enjoy the scenery, and take it at your own pace. Therefore, it is ideal if you want something beautiful without too much planning.
Explore Petworth town
Petworth is great for wandering, antiques browsing, and café stops. Also, it pairs perfectly with a Pullman stay because it keeps the mood relaxed and nostalgic.
Nature walks and viewpoints
The surrounding countryside is made for gentle walks. So, even a short loop feels rewarding. Moreover, the views give you that “I needed this” feeling fast.
Arundel
If you want a pretty day trip with strong postcard energy, Arundel is a lovely option. Additionally, it gives you variety if you want more than Petworth.
Chichester
For a bigger town feel, Chichester adds shops, culture, and a change of pace. Therefore, it is handy if you want your weekend to mix quiet and lively moments.
The Welldiggers Arms: Pub With a View
We also tried The Welldiggers Arms, and I highly recommend it. It has a stunning view, and the food was delicious. Therefore, it is a simple upgrade to your weekend plan. Also, it fits the cosy countryside mood perfectly.
Tips to Enjoy Your Stay Even More
A few small choices can make a big difference.
- Check the forecast before you go, because temperature matters here
- Pack layers in winter, since the carriage can feel cold
- Consider a small fan for warmer months, just in case
- Book dinner early if you want Princess Ena, because it is popular
- Plan one main outing per day, then leave space for slow time
Also, if you can, stay two nights. That way, you relax into the experience rather than rushing through it.
FAQs
Is The Old Railway Station good for a romantic weekend?
Yes. It feels intimate, unusual, and cosy. Also, the dinner experience makes it feel extra special.
Is breakfast included in the stay?
Yes. You can choose continental served at your Pullman or eat in the station dining area, where you can also order a full English.
Is Princess Ena worth booking if I am not staying overnight?
Yes. The carriage atmosphere is special, and the food is genuinely impressive. Therefore, it works as a destination dinner on its own.
What is the biggest downside?
Temperature comfort depends on the weather. So, shoulder months are the safest bet for a relaxed stay.
What should I do nearby for a weekend?
Petworth is the obvious start. Also, you can add a park visit, a gentle countryside walk, and a pub lunch at The Welldiggers Arms.
If you want a stay that feels different, immersive, and full of charm, The Old Railway Station is a confident yes. The Pullman carriages are beautifully renovated, and the station setting makes the whole weekend feel like a step back in time. Also, breakfast is genuinely good, and Princess Ena dinner is the kind of highlight you will talk about afterwards.
However, the weather can make or break comfort. Therefore, plan for shoulder months if you can, and pack smart if you cannot. Do that, and you will likely have an amazing weekend.
Disclaimer: I was invited to experience the stay. However, all comments and opinions are entirely my own.
