Ilsington House
Nestled in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, Ilsington Country House Hotel & Spa is a sanctuary of refined comfort, warm hospitality, and breathtaking natural beauty. Family-owned and steeped in tradition, our hotel blends timeless elegance with modern luxury.
Step inside and feel the embrace of a truly welcoming atmosphere. Our dedicated team is on hand to ensure your stay is seamless, delivering attentive service with a personal touch.
Recline in our cosy lounges, enjoy a moment of serenity in our award-winning spa, or take a refreshing dip in the heated pool. For those drawn to the outdoors, the rugged landscapes of Dartmoor offer endless possibilities – from invigorating hikes to peaceful moments in nature’s embrace. However you choose to spend your time, relaxation is assured.
Culinary excellence is at the heart of Ilsington. Our two-AA-Rosette restaurant, led by Head Chef Michael O’Donnell, celebrates the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Every dish is a reflection of our passion for flavour, crafted with precision and creativity. From elegant dining experiences to leisurely afternoon teas, every bite is a taste of Devon at its finest.
Our traditional ensuite rooms provide the perfect retreat after a day of exploration or indulgence. Individually styled with plush furnishings, sumptuous beds, and sweeping views of the moors, each space is designed for ultimate comfort. Here, deep and restorative sleep comes naturally.
More than just a hotel, Ilsington is a place to pause, breathe, and reconnect. Allow the beauty of Dartmoor and the charm of our country house to surround you, as our hospitality makes you feel truly at home.
Things To Do During Your Stay
Discover Hidden Gems
Dartmoor is brimming with incredible places to explore, from historic landmarks to unforgettable experiences that bring you closer to the landscape. Whether you’re stepping back in time at a grand estate, taking a scenic journey by steam train, or setting out on horseback through rolling countryside, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For a day of adventure, embark on the Round Robin trip, a delightful excursion combining a steam train ride, a boat journey along the River Dart, and a bus tour through charming towns and countryside. History lovers will be captivated by Buckfast Abbey, a working monastery with beautiful gardens and a fascinating past, or Castle Drogo, a striking 20th-century fortress with breathtaking views over the Teign Gorge. The Dartington Estate, with its stunning grounds and arts heritage, is perfect for a leisurely stroll and a taste of local culture.
If you prefer to explore on horseback, Finlake Horse Riding and Hacking offers a fantastic way to experience Dartmoor’s wild beauty, with scenic trails suited to both beginners and experienced riders.
Into the Wild
Dartmoor’s wild, untamed beauty makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With Ilsington as your base, the moors are yours to explore, whether on foot or with a refreshing dip in its natural pools. Step outside and lose yourself in Devon’s most spectacular landscapes including windswept tors, ancient woodlands, and vast open heathland.
A short walk from the hotel leads to Haytor, one of Dartmoor’s most iconic landmarks. Climb its granite peak for breathtaking panoramic views before descending towards Emsworthy Mire, a haven of vibrant wildflowers, whispering streams, and grazing Dartmoor ponies. For a gentler route, Pullabrook Woods offers enchanting riverside trails beneath towering oaks, where dappled sunlight dances on the water’s surface. If you’re craving adventure, follow rugged paths towards Princetown, trace the course of the River Dart, or simply lose yourself in the moor’s vastness.
For those drawn to the water, Dartmoor’s natural pools offer an invigorating wild swimming experience like no other. Crystal-clear streams carve their way through ancient landscapes, creating secluded spots to immerse yourself in nature. Spitchwick Common, with its grassy banks and gentle shallows, is a favourite for a refreshing dip, while Sharrah Pool, hidden within a wooded valley, offers cool, clear waters beneath a canopy of ancient oaks.
Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll, a demanding trek, or an exhilarating swim, Dartmoor delivers. And at the end of the day, return to the warmth of the hotel, where a hearty meal, a soothing spa, and a well-earned rest await.
The History of Ilsington House
History
Steeped in heritage, Ilsington Country House Hotel & Spa has been a welcoming retreat for over a century. Built in the 1890s, the hotel has a rich past, including its role in the Second World War when it housed American servicemen training at Slapton Sands for the D-Day landings.
Since 1998, the Hassell family – fourth-generation Devon hoteliers – have carefully preserved the hotel’s traditional charm while introducing modern comforts, ensuring a seamless blend of history and contemporary luxury.
From its origins as a grand country house to its place as one of the most established hotels in the South West, Ilsington continues to offer an atmosphere of timeless elegance, where past and present come together in perfect harmony.
Location
Perched on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Ilsington Country House Hotel & Spa offers the perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility. Tucked away from the nearest main road by three miles, peace and tranquillity are assured, with only the sounds of nature to accompany your stay.
Dartmoor’s breathtaking landscapes are yours to explore, from rugged tors to winding rivers, but if you crave a change of scenery, the stunning South Devon coastline at Dawlish, the historic charm of Tavistock, and the vibrant city of Exeter are all within easy reach.
Few places offer such an effortless blend of countryside serenity and coastal adventure but at Ilsington, you truly can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Meet The Team
Proudly Family Run
At Ilsington Country House Hotel & Spa, our dedicated team is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring every guest experiences the warmth, charm, and exceptional hospitality that define our hotel.
As a family-run retreat, the Hassell family has been at the helm since 1998, with Richard playing a key role in the daily running of the hotel. Over 20% of the staff has been at Ilsington for over 10 years, with four members of the team having racked up an impressive twenty years of dedicated service. This is one of the many reasons that guests keep on returning as they are assured of a great welcome and personal recognition.
In the kitchen, Michael O’Donnell, Head Chef since 1998, and his team craft exquisite seasonal menus, celebrating the finest local ingredients and making dining at Ilsington truly memorable. Every member of our team shares a passion for creating a welcoming sanctuary where guests can relax, unwind, and enjoy the timeless beauty of Dartmoor.
Featured Packages
From £195 per room
Dartmoor Discovery
Embrace the cosiness of Dartmoor’s quieter months with a two-night retreat designed for relaxation. Spend your days unwinding by the fire, indulging in a glass of wine at the bar, or immersing yourself in the serenity of our hydrotherapy pool. This package includes dinner on one evening, full use of the spa, and breakfast each morning. From £195 per room, per night (based on two sharing a standard double or twin room). Available Monday to Wednesday nights from 4th November 2024 to 2nd April 2025. Excludes 23rd December to 19th January.
From £115 per person
Dartmoor Explorer
Discover the rugged beauty of Dartmoor with our tailored explorer package. Enjoy a comfortable stay in a standard room, wake up to a hearty breakfast each morning, and savour delicious dinners each evening. To guide your adventures, we’ll provide a complimentary copy of Short Walks on Dartmoor. 4-night stay from £120 per person, per night, or 5-night stay from £115 per person, per night.
From £205 per room
Sunday Stopover
Ease into the new week with a restful Sunday escape. Arrive from midday and indulge in the soothing sanctuary of our spa from 1pm, letting the stresses of the week melt away. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with a £20 per person food and drink allowance before checking into your room at 3pm. Wake up refreshed and savour a delicious breakfast with sweeping Dartmoor views. From £205 per room (based on two sharing a standard double or twin room). Available Sundays from 4th October 2026 to 23rd May 2027 (excluding Christmas and New Year) and prices from £205.00 Availability may vary.
From £195 per room
Dartmoor Discovery
Embrace the cosiness of Dartmoor’s quieter months with a two-night retreat designed for relaxation. Spend your days unwinding by the fire, indulging in a glass of wine at the bar, or immersing yourself in the serenity of our hydrotherapy pool. This package includes dinner on one evening, full use of the spa, and breakfast each morning. From £195 per room, per night (based on two sharing a standard double or twin room). Available Monday to Wednesday nights from 4th November 2024 to 2nd April 2025. Excludes 23rd December to 19th January.
From £115 per person
Dartmoor Explorer
Discover the rugged beauty of Dartmoor with our tailored explorer package. Enjoy a comfortable stay in a standard room, wake up to a hearty breakfast each morning, and savour delicious dinners each evening. To guide your adventures, we’ll provide a complimentary copy of Short Walks on Dartmoor. 4-night stay from £120 per person, per night, or 5-night stay from £115 per person, per night.
From £205 per room
Sunday Stopover
Ease into the new week with a restful Sunday escape. Arrive from midday and indulge in the soothing sanctuary of our spa from 1pm, letting the stresses of the week melt away. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with a £20 per person food and drink allowance before checking into your room at 3pm. Wake up refreshed and savour a delicious breakfast with sweeping Dartmoor views. From £205 per room (based on two sharing a standard double or twin room). Available Sundays from 4th October 2026 to 23rd May 2027 (excluding Christmas and New Year) and prices from £205.00 Availability may vary.