A holiday let near Oxfordshire has been named best quirky property.

The Tunnel in Chacombe, four miles from Banbury, is a former railway tunnel, which used to serve a line between Banbury and Northampton.

Owners Brendan and Catherine Jenkins bought it in 2019 and spent four years converting it into a beautiful one-bedroom holiday let.

The couple have retained as many of the original features as possible, including the property’s impressive façade which features the original brickwork.

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But it now has 21st century amenties including a garden, hot tub and fire pit as well as a private fishing lake, which is home to local wildlife such as kingfishers, owls and carp.

The couple scooped gold in the Best Quirky Property category at The Sykes Gems Awards 2024, run by Sykes Holiday Cottages.

They also won bronze in the Best Glamping Property category for their cabin, Oak Lodge.

Oak Lodge is a quirky wood-panelled property on the same land as The Tunnel but  completely different with a wood-fired hot tub as well as a footpath which leads guests into the centre of Chacombe.

Properties were judged by a panel of industry experts using owner entries and guest feedback, alongside photos, occupancy figures and property amenities.

Mr Jenkins said: “Our favourite thing about owning The Tunnel is giving people that wow-factor experience, as it is truly a unique place to stay.”

James Shaw, managing director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, added: "While it was difficult to choose winners after receiving so many wonderful entries, The Tunnel was a clear front runner that delivers unforgettable breaks for guests.”