Old Welsh Police Station Transformed into Unique Dream Home

A former police station in Corwen, Wales, has undergone a remarkable transformation from a place of confinement to a desirable residence. Once a site for processing local offenders, including a notorious highwayman, the Corwen Old Police Station, affectionately known as COPS, is now a stunning property that has been redeveloped into two successful holiday lets.

The building, which consists of the original police station and an adjoining courthouse, has been awarded Grade II listing status by Cadw for its architectural significance. Dating back to 1871, the site was initially established to include holding cells, accommodation for a constable, and a justice room. The station remained operational until approximately 1978, when it was converted into a guesthouse.

When Caroline and Peter, the previous owners, discovered the police station, they nearly lost the opportunity to acquire it at auction. Fortunately, they received a call while on holiday in Devon, informing them that the sale had fallen through. They seized the chance and purchased the property in November 2010, embarking on a seven-year renovation journey that culminated in welcoming their first guests in 2017.

The couple faced numerous challenges, including obtaining listed building consents and planning permissions. The bulk of the renovation took place between 2012 and 2014, focusing primarily on the police station. They demolished partition walls, restored windows, and transformed the station’s exercise yard into a charming garden.

The renovation preserved many original features, such as the striking main jailhouse gate and three adjacent cells. These cells, once used to house offenders, have been reimagined into a snug/study, a utility room, and a kitchen, showcasing the creativity and thoughtfulness behind the redesign.

The main living area, formerly where arrests were processed, includes a restored fireplace and modern amenities, including a wet room. The upper floor now features four double bedrooms and additional facilities, offering ample space for families or groups.

Surrounding the police station, the courthouse also required extensive restoration. This included removing a poorly constructed first floor installed in the 1980s, revealing the original height of the chamber, which now boasts stunning ceiling beams and roof trusses. The courthouse now offers a semi-open layout for dining and living, along with comfortable accommodations.

The outdoor areas were not overlooked. The high-walled exercise yard has been transformed into a secluded retreat, complete with attractive landscaping and a hot tub, providing an inviting spot for relaxation.

After investing over £250,000 into the renovation, Caroline and Peter decided to downsize and have since operated the property successfully as a holiday let. According to their estate agent, the property generated approximately £50,000 in gross income over a recent six-month trading period, indicating strong demand and occupancy rates.

Currently configured as two distinct properties, the police station and courthouse can accommodate multi-generational living or continue as profitable holiday lets. The flexible layout, combined with its historical charm and modern comforts, makes this property a unique opportunity for prospective buyers.

The properties are now on the market for a guide price of £610,000 through Halls estate agents. With all fixtures and fittings included in the sale, including furniture, new owners will have the chance to cherish this extraordinary piece of history as deeply as its previous custodians.