A HIDDEN gem in the middle of Oswestry is a seemingly normal building until the doors open to reveal a modern holiday home.

St. David’s Church, in Welsh Walls, was bought by Simon Britten in 2015, who converted the building into an Airbnb.

Border Counties Advertizer: The living room spaceThe living room space (Image: Airbnb)

The owner, born and raised in Oswestry, explained: “I was going around the park next door with my daughter on a scooter, and I saw some of the windows were broken – and that it was essentially derelict.

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“I then asked my secretary to find out who owned it, and it was the Diocese of Lichfield – who actually had the property up for sale.

“I came to an agreement with them, bought it, and put in a planning permission.”

Border Counties Advertizer: One of the three bedrooms in The Church HouseOne of the three bedrooms in The Church House (Image: Airbnb)

Mr Britten has drawn up the plans with DP Architects – who won an award for the design of the refurbished church.

The Church House has since been converted from the original Victorian church to three contemporary decorated rooms that sleeps eight, all with en-suite bathrooms.

The owner has retained some beautiful features with vaulted ceiling and rustic oak beams – and made a cosy lounge with amazing views of the town.

Border Counties Advertizer: The open plan kitchenThe open plan kitchen (Image: Airbnb)

It includes 21 amenities, raging from TV and washing machine to hair driers, irons and even a travel cot.

The arched windows are costume made and there is also an open plan stunning kitchen.

The home also features under-floor heating, a stone bath, and Egyptian cotton bedding.

Border Counties Advertizer: One of the bathroomsOne of the bathrooms (Image: Airbnb)

Mr Britten added: “I have tried to give a feel of a ‘better than home’ house.

“The little extra touches make it quite unique, and I enjoy staying in it from time to time – also had a few of my birthdays there and they were quite a success.”

At the moment the Airbnb’s prices range from £240 to £320 a night, cleaning and services fees excluded.

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“We have been running it as a successful Airbnb ever since we opened it” the owner continued, “We have a lot of regulars, and I think it’s good for Oswestry and for the immediate area.”

To learn more about the holiday home you can visit https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/16699455?adults=1&source_impression_id=p3_1683711443_TIm%2FXr3lvgIqLK%2BM&guests=1