About Elmscott Youth Hostel
Built in 1870, Elmscott began life as a School Master’s House with an adjoining School Room. It joined the YHA in 1946 and later passed to the current owners – Mr and Mrs Goaman. The Goaman family have been farming at Elmscott for over 300 years!
Today, Elmscott is a comfortable three-star, YHA Accredited hostel with full central heating and on-site parking—ideal for families, walkers, school parties and group get-togethers (including Exclusive Hire).
On the Hartland Heritage Coast Set on the dramatic Hartland peninsula with views across to Lundy Island, Elmscott sits just a few minutes’ walk from the South West Coast Path.
Nearby highlights include:
- Hartland Quay and its spectacular cliffs
- Hartland Abbey and historic grounds
- St Nectan’s Church with its 39 m tower—the highest in Devon and second highest in England
- Docton Mill Gardens (don’t miss the tea room)
- The timeless fishing village of Clovelly, with its cobbled street leading to the harbour
Rooms & Facilities
We offer 32 beds, all in bunk-bed rooms, spread across the original School House and the School Room: School House (first floor): rooms sleeping 6, 4, and 2. (In winter, a 3-bed room is also available.) School Room (ground floor): 4 rooms — two sleeping 6 and two sleeping 4.
All rooms include washbasins with mirrors, with showers and toilets close by. Fresh bedding is provided (white sheet sleeping bags with matching duvets and curtains), and each room is neat and tidy with seating.
Book Online
Prefer to secure your stay in a few clicks? Book Elmscott on the YHA website.
Opening Hours & Contact Reception
- daily from 8.00am–10.00am and 5.00pm–10.00pm.
- In season: call the hostel on 01237 441367 — the duty warden will be happy to help plan your stay.
- Out of season: contact the owners on 01237 441276 (leave a message and we’ll return your call).
