RAVENGLASS and Eskdale Railway will officially unveil the two new camping coaches at a special launch ceremony on Monday, May 23, hosted by British Railway Historian and TV presenter Tim Dunn.
The two carriages were originally built in 1917 as part of a World War One Ambulance Train.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund granted £250,000 to the railway and Elmira and the Maid of Kent were transformed.
The vehicles were made into new visitor accommodation for up to six persons.
From the ‘Pullman Car No. 137’ plaque in the lounge, to the marquetry that has been delicately repaired and features in the carriage, these special repairs transport guests back to a bygone era during their stay.
David Renwick, director at the National Lottery Heritage Fund, says: “Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, we are proud to support the Railway in this innovative project, that sees our railway heritage celebrated in a new fashion that also creates an interesting and commercially sustainable future for the Ravenglass Railway Museum Trust."
The Camping Coaches have already received recognition including, 3* Gold from Visit England, runners up in the prestigious HRA Morgan Preservation Award, and have most recently been announced as finalists in the Cumbria Tourism Awards Self-Catering Category.
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