Often when we think of sleeping on a train, it’s usually not in the most ideal circumstances – perhaps propped up against a bag on uncomfortable old seats or on cramped overnight trips. 

The Station Hunter Valley will most certainly change how you feel about sleeping on a train. That’s right – you can stay in historic, renovated train carriages (that aren’t moving any time soon) right here in the Hunter Valley.

The one-of-a-kind converted trains have been given a makeover in recent years thanks to couple Ashley and Tim Sullivan. Since purchasing the property during the pandemic, the pair have worked tirelessly to revive the train carriages that were already on the site belonging to the previous owner, as well as introduce some exciting new additions (more on that shortly).

Ashley and Tim made the move to the property with their eight-day-old baby and toddler and got started on renovations right away.

“We actually always wanted a hotel or bed and breakfast called The George. We thought this would be our retirement, so that’s what we were working towards,” Ashley said.

That dream has morphed into The Station, where there’s now four incredible train carriages available to book, with two more coming in 2025. Each train is named after the couple’s family members (including their French bulldog Franklin) and styled in a way that’s befitting of their nearly 100-year histories.

“I think my natural style, when I do interiors, is modern country. I’ve tried to step out of the box before and do something a little bit more modern but it never comes together, so it’s my instinct to stick to what I’m good at.”

Expect the loving preservation of original features like timber panelling and stained glass windows, plenty of cosy furnishings, calming colour palettes, and lots of thoughtful touches.

“All of the trains have been made to live in. They’ve been designed not just like a hotel room – they’ve got a private courtyard, firepits, the works.”

It means guests often come to stay with the intention of exploring the surrounding region, but cancel their plans just so they can hang out and relax in their incredible accommodation.

Ashley and Tim love seeing people settle in and spend time on the property – it’s why they’re in the process of putting a pool in, accompanied by a pool house and gym in a converted tram (where else?), a communal fire pit, and an outdoor kitchen. 

That’s not to mention what might be the most exciting addition of all – a bar housed in a converted 1890 train, open to the public as well as guests of The Station. Stay tuned for more details on the opening of this unreal new venue.

For now, you’ll just have to book in for a stay aboard one of The Station’s remarkable train carriages, or even plan a wedding at the property, and experience this unique property for yourself.