Mystery vehicle

[Snow1964]

I spotted what looked like an old Underground train car when out walking in a garden (see attached photo) it is now mounted on what looks like an old lorry chassis

The shape of the roof with the clerestory curved down at the ends, along with the double side doors made me think it might be a K class (which were introduced 1928-30).

The panelling and newer windows have given me doubts, and maybe never was a train, and possibly is something else. Can anyone help identify it.

Thanks

 

[Gloster]

There used to be lots of those about. I think they were a type of caravan designed for itinerant workers such as on road construction for use either as offices or accommodation, or they may have started as de-luxe showman’s caravans and been adapted for other uses later.

 

[CarltonA]

Have seen such at traction engine rallies, they are usually mounted on four wheels and pulled by a drawbar rather than a caravan hitch.

 

[Mcr Warrior]

@Snow1964. What's the photo location? Somewhere in Wiltshire?

 

[Cowley]

There used to be lots of those about. I think they were a type of caravan designed for itinerant workers such as on road construction for use either as offices or accommodation, or they may have started as de-luxe showman’s caravans and been adapted for other uses later.

A friend of mine has something similar. I’ve always thought of them as Showman’s vans as well.

 

[Shimbleshanks]

There are/were some in a scrapyard near Clapham Junction.
CL

 

[John Webb]

Usually referred to as a "Showman's living van".
Photo of one in better condition:
Birdingbury Country Festival (15)

© Copyright Andy F and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
(Click on photo to go to larger original on the Geograph website.)

 

[Snow1964]

@Snow1964. What's the photo location? Somewhere in Wiltshire?

Near free English Heritage site (remains of 14th century church, in middle of a 4500 year old henge) at Knowlton, Dorset