Dartmouth, Devon

History, Heat & Devon Magic

Where four centuries of stone and timber meet wood smoke, hot water, and the unhurried Devon valley.

Tucked into a sheltered Devon valley just a stone's throw from the sparkling coastline, Ellesmera Mill is a rare thing: a living piece of history that somehow feels entirely, luxuriously now. This 400-year-old millhouse has been lovingly transformed into a sanctuary for ten, its ancient stone walls and timeworn timbers carrying four centuries of quiet stories while delivering every comfort a discerning group could wish for. The valley setting wraps around you like a secret, with Blackpool Sands — one of Devon's most celebrated beaches — waiting just beyond the treeline whenever the mood for salt air takes hold.

Where Ellesmera Mill truly earns its place in the imagination is in the ritual of an evening spent outdoors. Sink into the wood-fired hot tub as steam rises into the darkening sky above the valley, or slip into the sauna and let the warmth unspool the tensions of the journey down. These are not mere amenities — they are the centrepiece of a stay that asks nothing more of you than to be fully, blissfully present. For families or groups of friends seeking that elusive combination of character, space, and genuine indulgence, this is a property that lodges itself in the memory long after you have reluctantly headed for home.

Dartmouth, one of Devon's most beguiling harbour towns, sits within easy reach, offering excellent seafood, independent galleries, and the kind of waterside wandering that makes a weekend feel like a week. But truth be told, Ellesmera Mill makes it rather difficult to leave at all.

Notable Features

What Sets It Apart

400 years old
Sleeps 10
Wood-fired hot tub
Sauna
Valley location
Blackpool Sands nearby

Gallery

Inside & Out

Ellesmera Mill — interior and exterior view 1

Ellesmera Mill — interior and exterior view 2

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Guest Voices

What They Say

“Our 5th stay and another wonderful relaxing break. A huge thank you to Peter and the whole team for friendly, helpful service and fabulous food. All the staff were so charming and absolutely on point in every way, from the restaurant service to lighting the Woodburner when we were reading in the lounge. Already looking forward to another visit”

Lesley Young5/5

“An absolutely stunning hotel in the gorgeous countryside. We stayed here for a night and wow what an amazing experience. The staff were so welcoming and friendly. The food was outstanding! One of the best evening meals we’ve ever had and the presentation was beautiful. The room we stayed in was spacious, clean and comfortable. We were sad to leave but will definitely return at some point!”

Kirsty R5/5

“First visit here in May, returned August. Our first visit was excellent and proved to be just as good second time arround. Food outstanding , wood pigeon starter ranked one of best starters I've ever experienced. If you are not a dog lover , don't worry , the hotel manages the situation brilliantly-- to everyones satisfaction.”

john hore5/5

“We did not stay here, but took afternoon tea. The service was both friendly and utterly professional. The afternoon tea was delicious and freshly made. They paid great attention to my wife's dietary needs, and were careful not to lazily lump a combination of vegetarian and dairy free into the usual vegan bracket. Instead they offered a well thought out mix of goats cheese tart, some delicious cakes, and sandwiches, including egg products, which are often not offered to vegetarians with dairy intolerances. It's so refreshing to have a high quality establishment who listen to what their customers want.”

Richard Hamer5/5

“We had afternoon tea at the mill end hotel and it’s one of the best I’ve ever eaten. Everything was delicious from the red onion blue cheese tarts, to the dainty sandwiches and warm fluffy scones. We couldn’t eat it all as there was so much so took some home. Service was excellent and the lounge was a comfy, relaxing place to enjoy an afternoon. Would recommend.”

Abi B5/5