Nestled on the serene shores of Selsey in West Sussex, Seabank offers a unique coastal retreat within a pair of meticulously converted 19th-century railway carriages. This beachfront villa, christened Clarrie and Annabel, once transported passengers between the bustling city of London and the vibrant seaside town of Brighton. Retired from their railway duties after the Second World War, these Stroudley carriages have been lovingly transformed into a charming holiday home, retaining many of their original features while offering modern comforts. Recognized by The Times as one of the most distinctive places to stay, Seabank’s allure is undeniable, blending historical charm with coastal tranquility.
The villa’s prime location places guests mere steps from the sea wall, with panoramic ocean views from the living and dining areas. Stepping inside the light blue-painted Clarrie carriage, guests are greeted by a double bedroom, complete with the original train carriage doors and their charming twist handles. Entry to this room is possible from either side, a quirky reminder of the carriage’s past life. This carriage also houses an L-shaped kitchen and a well-equipped bathroom. A long hallway connects Clarrie to Annabel, the second carriage, which hosts another double bedroom and two smaller rooms furnished with bunk beds, perfect for accommodating children. Modern amenities such as a TV, DVD player, stereo, iPod dock, and radio seamlessly blend with the historical setting, ensuring a comfortable and entertaining stay.
Seabank comfortably sleeps up to eight guests, four adults and four children, making it an ideal family getaway. Two-night stays start from £402, offering a unique holiday experience that balances affordability with charm. Selsey itself, a remote seaside town located approximately seven miles south of Chichester, adds to the allure. Accessible by only a single road, Selsey provides a sense of seclusion and tranquility, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its unique geography, almost entirely cut off from the mainland, enhances its peaceful atmosphere.
The town boasts two inviting pebble beaches, Selsey Beach and East Beach, which reveal stunning stretches of sand during low tide. The coastal beauty of Selsey has even drawn comparisons to the South of France, further cementing its reputation as a hidden gem. Access to this seaside paradise is via the B2145, which uniquely transforms into a bridge known locally as “the ferry.” This bridge, spanning the water inlet at Pagham Harbour, derives its name from the ferryman who once transported people across to the island and into Selsey. Surrounded by Bracklesham Bay to the west, Pagham Harbour to the east, and Broad Rife to the north, Selsey offers a diverse range of natural landscapes to explore.
Despite its small size, Selsey offers a vibrant array of dining and entertainment options. Pubs like The Neptune, Fisherman’s Joy, and The Hope Inn cater to those seeking a relaxing drink and a taste of local charm. For a more lively experience, The Crown Inn serves delicious food before transforming into a nightclub at 10pm, offering a blend of culinary delights and evening entertainment. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Medmerry nature reserve, a man-made marvel created in 2013 as part of Europe’s largest coastal realignment scheme. This project aimed to protect surrounding towns and villages from flooding, illustrating Selsey’s commitment to balancing development with environmental preservation.
Seabank’s unique accommodation is a testament to the growing trend of unusual holiday destinations. From hotels shaped like wine bottles to repurposed prison buildings, travelers are increasingly seeking experiences that go beyond the conventional. Examples of such unique accommodations include Kabirbnb in India, a hotel shaped like a wine bottle; CasAnus in Belgium, a hotel shaped like a bum-hole; and the Malmaison Hotel in Oxford, a former prison transformed into a luxury hotel. Even a World War Two concrete bunker in Dorset has been converted into a luxury holiday home, demonstrating the creativity and innovation driving this trend. Seabank joins this list of extraordinary destinations, offering a unique blend of history, comfort, and coastal charm.
