Small houses have become increasingly popular for many obvious reasons. But just how small can they go?
The smallest house in Britain is found in Conwy in North Wales. At just 6×10 feet, it’s a tiny abode of doll-size proportions that welcomes thousands of tourists each year.
Locally coined The Smalls’, this tiny residence was built in the 16th century and had tenants living inside for hundreds of years. Let’s find out how.
Where is the Smallest House in Britain?
The Smallest House in Britain is found in Conwy, a historic town in North Wales on the fringes of Snowdonia National Park. This tiny residence is perched on Lower Gate State overlooking the harbour — Conwy Quay.
Nestled in a row of terraced cottages, it’s hard to miss, painted in a distinct shade of brick red.
History of the Smallest House in Britain
When was it built?
The Smallest House was opportunistically built as an infill property in the 16th century.
Two rows of cottages had been built on the quay, with each row starting from the town wall towers. However, they didn’t quite meet and there was a gap left between them.
With a shortage of housing in the town, an enterprising builder realised that all that was needed to create another house was a front wall and a roof. And thus, the Smallest House was born.
Who lived in the smallest house in Britain?
The Smalls’ was home to a number of different people.
The last tenant was Robert Jones, a 6′ 3″ fisherman. Yes, 6’3”. Just a year after he bought the house for £20, an inspector declared Smalls unfit to live in. In a bid to save the cottage, Jones toured the country with the editor of the local newspaper measuring every other small house to confirm that it was, indeed, the smallest house in the country.
The Guinness Book of Records confirmed Smalls’ status as the Smallest House in Great Britain in the early 1920s, and the house has remained in the ownership of Robert Jones’ family ever since.
How big is the smallest house in Britain?
Short answer, not very big.
The Smallest House measures just 72 inches across, 122 inches high and 120 inches deep.
Inside the Smallest House in Britain
Despite being quaint, it squeezes in a bedroom upstairs and a living area downstairs, with cooking facilities and a water tap behind the stairs. How, you ask?
Take a look for yourself.
The house is open daily from April through to October and you can pop inside and take a quick tour for just £1. It goes without saying that only one small group can peruse at a time, so you may have to queue to go in. Go early to avoid a long wait.
Whilst you do wait, outside the house, they have a lovely souvenir stall with Welsh gems.
Attractions Nearby
The smallest house won’t take you long to visit, but there are other attractions just a stone’s throw away to make the most of the trip.
Conwy Marina and Quay is a great place to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a traditional fish and chips takeaway, or a cold one outside the Liverpool Arms. Stop into the boathouse, or simply stroll around and revel in the beautiful views.
Continue your stroll to Conwy Castle, to see the defensive castle (mostly ruins) in all its glory. Built-in the 13th century and reputed to be haunted by a past resident, this picturesque castle was built for King Edward I and is well worth a visit, if just for the views of the town walls.