Quay House, The Smallest House in Great Britain – Conwy, Wales - Atlas Obscura

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Quay House, The Smallest House in Great Britain

A former fisherman's hut deemed too small for habitation is now a delightful tourist draw. 

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Also known as the Quay House of Conwy, the self-proclaimed “Smallest House in Great Britain” is definitely a tiny abode, but it actually looks quite cozy.

The minuscule home was created in the 16th century and remained in use until 1900, when the final tenant was forced to leave by order of the city council. In terms of space, the little home only measures 10 feet deep and not even 6 feet wide. The ceiling is only a little over 10 feet high from the floor to the top of the eave. Remarkably, it is split into two floors. The first floor is devoted to the living area with room for coal and an open fire, and a water tap tucked behind the stairs. The upstairs holds the cramped bedroom, which also comes with a small niche for storage. How luxurious.

The Quay House has not been lived in since its last owner was made to leave over a century ago, but the interior has been preserved to provide a glimpse of the spartan life of a historic Welsh fisherman. Visitors are welcome to briefly explore the little home, and are usually welcomed by a woman in traditional Welsh garb. They can explore the first floor, but the second floor has become too unstable, although guests can still peek their heads into the still-furnished bedroom.

Construction in recent years has seen the number of tourists to the house decline, but the proud smallest house in Great Britain endures.

Know Before You Go

A nominal entrance fee is charged, as of 2021: £1.50 for adults and 50p for children (16 or under).

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