Malvern couple celebrating success of Eleri Cottage

In 2019, Tamsin Elkington and Paul Casey began renovating part of their home, Eleri Cottage, into a holiday let.

The couple previously used part of their cottage to run a small, local care home, so a lot of renovation was needed and there was a plan to open to guests in March 2020, which was halted by the pandemic.

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After re-opening to bookings in July 2020 once restrictions lifted, they took 12 bookings within the first hour.

With the pandemic now behind them, Eleri Cottage took 55 bookings in 2022 alone, generating over £33,000 in revenue, and 30 bookings already made for 2023.

Tamsin Elkington said she was concerned after the amount of money the pair had invested in the project.

She said: “When we paused the opening of the cottage, we were very concerned, especially after investing so much money.

"The renovation was challenging at times, and we tried to keep costs down by tackling as many of the jobs as possible ourselves, but we’re really proud of how it has turned out and think it’s the perfect bolthole to explore the Malvern Hills and all it has to offer.

"We have loved welcoming people since we opened in July 2020 and try and make the property a home from home for our guests, adding extra items like sewing kits, blankets and treats for dogs."

Living space at Eleri Cottage in Malvern. (Image: Sykes Cottages)

Several changes were needed to convert the space into a comfortable retreat for holidaymakers.

Changes included converting the office space into a large bathroom, renovating the kitchen, and changing the interiors throughout.

The property, including the flat next door which the couple live in, was originally bought for £172,000.

However, the two separate parts have recently been valued at £350,000 and £150,000, meaning the couple have almost tripled the value of the property after just £40,000 spent on renovation work.

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There is more potential renovating in the pipeline too, with the couple now considering converting the garage underneath their flat into a two-bedroom holiday let.

If they secure planning permission, the couple plan to move abroad while generating an income from the lets.

Available to book via Sykes Holiday Cottages, for more information you can visit here: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Cotswolds-Worcestershire-Cowleigh-Park-Fm/Eleri-Cottage-1048537.html.