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4- and 5-star hotels in Ilfracombe
A shortlist of 4- and 5-star hotels in Ilfracombe, from boutique rooms on Fore Street to hillside guest houses and coastal spa hotels. It is for couples, families and walkers choosing where to base themselves on this stretch of the North Devon coast.
Staying in Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe is a working harbour town on the North Devon coast, known for its harbour, the Verity sculpture by Damien Hirst and its Victorian architecture, and it sits on the South West Coast Path with walks to headlands and beaches such as Tunnels Beaches. Independent shops, cafes and pubs fill the centre, and the town is a gateway to Exmoor National Park and the larger beaches at Woolacombe and Croyde. Most of these hotels sit in or just above the centre: Fore Street, Sommers' Crescent, St Brannock's Road, Hillsborough Road and Torrs Park, all within roughly a kilometre of the middle, while a few lie further out at Mullacott Cross, Watermouth, Berrynarbor, Hagginton Hill and Fairfield.
Couples are well served by the smaller 5-star rooms and the hillside guest houses, families by the self-catering properties and the hotels with pools, and short-break visitors by the addresses closest to the harbour. Several hotels stand out for facilities rather than scale, from an indoor pool and spa to a sauna and a private beach.
The shortlist
Ranked by hotel class, then guest rating and number of reviews.
The Habit Boutique Rooms
46 48 Fore St Ilfracombe Ex34 9Dn Uk, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers · Breakfast
- Parking
- Breakfast
- Fitness Center
Why stay hereRight on Fore Street, The Habit Boutique Rooms puts you 0.4 km from the centre of Ilfracombe, with a restaurant and a fitness centre on site. Guests rate it 5.0 out of 5. The library and terrace give you somewhere quiet to sit after a day out. It is a non-smoking hotel with parking, and pets are not allowed, so it suits couples and solo travellers who want a central, adult-only base.
See The Habit Boutique Rooms5 Arlington Villas
Sommers' Cres Ilfracombe Ex34 9Dp Uk, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers
- Free car parking
- Kitchen
- Beach nearby
Why stay hereA 5-star house on Sommers' Crescent, 0.5 km from the centre and close to the beach. The kitchen, with oven, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator and washing machine, plus a cot and high chairs, makes it a practical choice for families or groups who want to self-cater. Guests rate it 5.0 out of 5. Free car parking is provided, and the sea is within reach of the property.
See 5 Arlington VillasWildercombe House
St Brannocks Road Ilfracombe Ex34 8Ep United Kingdom Ilfracombe, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers · Breakfast
- Free car parking
- Breakfast
- Pets allowed
Why stay hereSet on St Brannocks Road about 1.1 km from the centre, Wildercombe House combines a garden and terrace with free car parking and free internet access in the lounge. Breakfast is served, and pets are allowed, which makes it a straightforward option for guests travelling with a dog. Golf, tennis, fishing and horse riding are all within the hotel's offer. Lifts and vending machines add convenience, and it is a non-smoking hotel.
See Wildercombe HouseHarbour Hideaway Circa 1750
Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
- Kitchen
- Free Wifi
Why stay hereA 5-star hideaway of circa 1750, 0.5 km from the centre of Ilfracombe. The kitchen comes with dishwasher, oven and washing machine, and there is a fireplace and a jacuzzi, so it works well for couples or small groups who want space and character rather than a hotel room. Free wifi, a garden and a cot are provided, and the whole property is non-smoking.
See Harbour Hideaway Circa 1750Hidden Gem
Hagginton Hillberrynarbour, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers
- Free car parking
- Kitchen
- Free Wifi
Why stay hereHidden Gem sits on Hagginton Hill, 3.7 km from Ilfracombe centre, with a garden, garage and free car parking. The kitchen includes a dishwasher and washing machine, and a cot is available. Free wifi and a non-smoking interior keep things simple and comfortable. Fishing is among the activities on offer. It suits guests with a car who want a quieter, self-contained 5-star base away from the town.
See Hidden GemAdmiral's Lookout
7B Hillsborough Terrace_X000d__X000d__X000d_, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers
- Free car parking
- Kitchen
- Free Wifi
Why stay hereOn Hillsborough Terrace, 0.5 km from the centre, Admiral's Lookout is a 5-star property with sea views. The kitchen has a dishwasher and washing machine, and there is a garden, garage and free car parking. Free wifi throughout and a non-smoking interior make it easy to settle in. Horse riding and fishing are available nearby. It suits families or couples who want a self-catering stay within walking distance of town.
See Admiral's LookoutNDR Residences
Marlborough Road, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Indoor pool
- Spa
- Car parking
Why stay hereNDR Residences is a 5-star address on Marlborough Road, 0.5 km from the centre. An indoor pool, spa and restaurant are the standout facilities, backed by concierge service, luggage storage and a shuttle service. Free wifi and free car parking are included, and the property is wheelchair accessible. Laundry service and a car park add to the practicality. It suits guests who want hotel-style service and wellness facilities close to town.
See NDR ResidencesThe Devonian
Torrs Park, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Sauna
- Free car parking
- Free Wifi
Why stay hereThe Devonian on Torrs Park is a 4-star hotel 0.9 km from the centre, rated 5.0 out of 5 by guests. There is a sauna and a bar, plus a garden and terrace, with free wifi and free car parking. Rooms come with bathrobes, hairdryer and toiletries. Laundry service and a picnic area are also available. It suits guests who want traditional hotel comforts and a sauna within walking distance of Ilfracombe.
See The DevonianMarine Court
Hillsborough Road Ilfracombedevon Ex34 9Qq, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers · Breakfast
- Free car parking
- Breakfast
- Bar/Lounge
Why stay hereMarine Court on Hillsborough Road is a 4-star hotel 0.8 km from the centre, rated 4.9 out of 5. Breakfast is served, and there is a bar/lounge and a terrace, with free wifi and free car parking. The property is wheelchair accessible. It suits guests who want an easy, well-rated base close to the seafront and the town's amenities.
See Marine CourtMullacott Farm
Mullacott Cross, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Free car parking
- Breakfast
- Family rooms
Why stay hereMullacott Farm is a 4-star property 2.3 km from the centre, rated 4.6 out of 5. Breakfast is served, including breakfast in the room, and special diets can be catered for. Family rooms, cots and high chairs make it work for families. Free wifi and free car parking are provided, along with a garden, patio and picnic area. Bike rental and a golf course nearby suit active guests, and the property is wheelchair accessible.
See Mullacott FarmStrathmore
57 St. Brannock's Rd Ilfracombe Ex34 8Eq Uk, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers · Breakfast
- Parking
- Breakfast
- Internet access
Why stay hereStrathmore on St Brannock's Road is a 4-star hotel 0.7 km from the centre, rated 4.8 out of 5. Breakfast is served, and internet access and parking are available. It is a compact, straightforward choice for guests who want a well-rated stay within walking distance of Ilfracombe's centre without extra facilities.
See StrathmoreThe Sawmills
Watermouth, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers · Step-free access
- Free car parking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Free Wifi
Why stay hereThe Sawmills at Watermouth is a 4-star property 4.2 km from the centre, rated 4.4 out of 5 from 1538 reviews. A restaurant and bar are on site, and there is a fireplace, garden and terrace. Free wifi and free car parking are included, and the property is wheelchair accessible. It suits guests who want a larger, well-reviewed countryside base with dining on site and easy parking.
See The SawmillsThe Antidote
20 Saint James Place The Antidote, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
- Kitchen
- Free Wifi
Why stay hereThe Antidote on Saint James Place is a 4-star property 0.6 km from the centre, rated 4.6 out of 5. Each unit has a kitchenette with microwave, oven and refrigerator, and there is a restaurant on site. It suits guests who want to self-cater and eat out, all within a short walk of the town centre.
See The AntidoteSandy Cove Hotel
Berrynarbor, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Free car parking
Why stay hereSandy Cove Hotel at Berrynarbor is a 4-star hotel 4.6 km from the centre, rated 4.2 out of 5 from 825 reviews. An indoor pool, spa, sauna and steam room are the main draws, and there is a private beach and sea views. A restaurant, bar and garden are on site, with free wifi and free car parking. Family rooms, cots and special diets are available, and the hotel is wheelchair accessible. Yoga is also offered.
See Sandy Cove HotelThe Kite Upper Torrs View
Fairfield, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom
Best for: Drivers
- Free car parking
- Kitchen
- Free Wifi
Why stay hereThe Kite Upper Torrs View on Fairfield is a 4-star property just 0.2 km from the centre, rated 4.2 out of 5. From its balcony there are sea views, and the kitchen includes oven, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator and washing machine. A garden, patio and free car parking are provided, with free wifi and a cot. Fishing, golf, surfing and diving are among the local activities. It suits families or groups who want space and a central location.
See The Kite Upper Torrs View
The shortlist side by side
| Hotel | Class | Guest rating | Reviews | Parking | Breakfast | Pool or spa | To the centre |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Habit Boutique Rooms | ★★★★★ | 5.0 | 2 | Yes | Yes | – | 0.4 km |
| 5 Arlington Villas | ★★★★★ | 5.0 | 1 | Yes | – | – | 0.5 km |
| Wildercombe House | ★★★★★ | – | – | Yes | Yes | – | 1.1 km |
| Harbour Hideaway Circa 1750 | ★★★★★ | – | – | – | – | – | 0.5 km |
| Hidden Gem | ★★★★★ | – | – | Yes | – | – | 3.7 km |
| Admiral's Lookout | ★★★★★ | – | – | Yes | – | – | 0.5 km |
| NDR Residences | ★★★★★ | – | – | Yes | – | Yes | 0.5 km |
| The Devonian | ★★★★ | 5.0 | 158 | Yes | – | Yes | 0.9 km |
| Marine Court | ★★★★ | 4.9 | 47 | Yes | Yes | – | 0.8 km |
| Mullacott Farm | ★★★★ | 4.6 | 99 | Yes | Yes | – | 2.3 km |
| Strathmore | ★★★★ | 4.8 | 44 | Yes | Yes | – | 0.7 km |
| The Sawmills | ★★★★ | 4.4 | 1,538 | Yes | – | – | 4.2 km |
| The Antidote | ★★★★ | 4.6 | 49 | – | – | – | 0.6 km |
| Sandy Cove Hotel | ★★★★ | 4.2 | 825 | Yes | – | Yes | 4.6 km |
| The Kite Upper Torrs View | ★★★★ | 4.2 | 27 | Yes | – | – | 0.2 km |
From each hotel's own listing on this site; a dash means it is not listed.
How to choose
For families
Sandy Cove Hotel has family rooms, an indoor pool, a spa and a private beach nearby. Mullacott Farm adds family rooms, cots, high chairs and a picnic area. The Kite Upper Torrs View and 5 Arlington Villas provide kitchens, cots and high chairs for self-catering stays.
Sandy Cove Hotel · Mullacott Farm · The Kite Upper Torrs View · 5 Arlington Villas
For couples
The Habit Boutique Rooms is a 5-star house on Fore Street rated 5.0 from 2 reviews, with a restaurant and terrace. Harbour Hideaway Circa 1750 and Admiral's Lookout pair kitchens and gardens with sea-facing settings, while The Devonian, a 4-star with a sauna, holds 5.0 from 158 reviews.
The Habit Boutique Rooms · Harbour Hideaway Circa 1750 · Admiral's Lookout · The Devonian
Closest to the centre
The Kite Upper Torrs View is 0.2 km from the centre, The Habit Boutique Rooms 0.4 km, and 5 Arlington Villas, Harbour Hideaway Circa 1750, Admiral's Lookout and NDR Residences all 0.5 km. These keep the harbour, restaurants and the start of coastal walks within a short walk.
The Kite Upper Torrs View · The Habit Boutique Rooms · 5 Arlington Villas · Harbour Hideaway Circa 1750 · Admiral's Lookout · NDR Residences
For spa and pool
NDR Residences offers an indoor pool, a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant and a shuttle service. Sandy Cove Hotel adds an indoor pool, spa, sauna and steam room, and The Devonian has a sauna among its facilities.
Plan your stay
Getting there and around
Ilfracombe is reached by road via the A361 from Barnstaple, which connects to the M5 motorway at Tiverton. The nearest railway station is in Barnstaple, about 12 miles away, with connections from Exeter, and buses run between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe; National Express coaches also stop in the town. Once in town, many attractions are within walking distance, but local buses serve the surrounding villages and beaches. Driving is convenient for exploring the wider area, though parking can be limited in peak season.
When to go
Summer months, from June to August, offer the warmest weather and the most facilities open, but also the largest crowds. Spring and autumn are quieter, with mild temperatures and fewer visitors, ideal for walking. Winter can be cold and wet, with some businesses closed, but the coastline remains dramatic.
Questions, answered
Which hotels have parking?
Free car parking is listed at 5 Arlington Villas, Wildercombe House, Hidden Gem, Admiral's Lookout, NDR Residences, The Devonian, Marine Court, Mullacott Farm, The Sawmills, Sandy Cove Hotel and The Kite Upper Torrs View. The Habit Boutique Rooms and Strathmore list parking, and NDR Residences also offers a garage and shuttle service.
Which hotels have a pool or spa?
NDR Residences has an indoor pool, a swimming pool and a spa. Sandy Cove Hotel offers an indoor pool, a swimming pool, a spa, a sauna and a steam room, and The Devonian has a sauna.
Are pets allowed?
Wildercombe House is the only hotel here that lists pets allowed. The Habit Boutique Rooms states pets not allowed, and the remaining properties do not list a pet policy in their facilities.
Which hotels are best for families?
Sandy Cove Hotel and Mullacott Farm both list family rooms, and Mullacott Farm adds cots and high chairs. 5 Arlington Villas and The Kite Upper Torrs View provide kitchens, cots and high chairs, and Sandy Cove Hotel has a private beach nearby.
Which hotel is closest to the centre?
The Kite Upper Torrs View is 0.2 km from the centre, the closest of the group. The Habit Boutique Rooms is 0.4 km away, and 5 Arlington Villas, Harbour Hideaway Circa 1750, Admiral's Lookout and NDR Residences are each 0.5 km from the centre.
Which is the top-rated pick?
Four hotels score 5.0 out of 5: The Habit Boutique Rooms from 2 reviews, 5 Arlington Villas from 1 review, and The Devonian from 158 reviews. Among the 4-star hotels, Marine Court follows at 4.9 from 47 reviews.
Which hotels have a restaurant?
The Habit Boutique Rooms, NDR Residences, The Sawmills and The Antidote list a restaurant, and The Habit Boutique Rooms, Marine Court and The Sawmills also list a bar or lounge.