Sticky varnish on floorboards

[whats4teamum]

I want to paint some floorboards but investigation under the carpet has revealed that under the underlay is some kind of lining paper. Beneath the lining paper there is sticky varnish. It is patchy and has obviously been there for decades.

What would I need to do to prep the floor for painting or am I stuck with carpet forever more?

I think you would need to sand it back. you can hire an industrial sander to do it. it is hard work but worth it if the wood is in good nick.