Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel Ilfracombe People photoOcean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel Ilfracombe Exterior photoOcean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel Ilfracombe Room photo
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From58US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

29 St James Place, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom, EX34 9BJ
-
A stone's throw from Ilfracombe Harbour
Great
8.4
/10
5.0
/5

Location

Ocean Backpackers is located in Ilfracombe's picturesque working fishing harbour, offering access to stunning views and cultural attractions. The hostel is a short drive from popular surf beaches such as Woolacombe, Croyde, and Saunton Sands. Guests can explore Ilfracombe's rich café culture, shops, and galleries all within walking distance.

Accommodations

The hostel offers flexible accommodation options, from dormitory-style rooms to private family rooms. Up to 46 guests can be accommodated, making it suitable for both individual travellers and larger groups. Some rooms feature en-suite facilities and sea views, while communal areas promote social interactions.

Facilities

Ocean Backpackers includes a well-equipped self-catering kitchen with a seven-burner range and two catering refrigerators for guest use. A spacious communal lounge and dining area allows guests to relax and enjoy meals together. For outdoor enthusiasts, secure storage for bikes, surfboards, and kayaks is available.

Activities

The hostel serves as a base for a variety of outdoor activities, including walking along the South West Coast Path and cycling on Route 27. Local boat trips offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, including visits to Lundy Island. For wellness seekers, packages with Solonda Pilates Studio provide health-oriented retreats and activities.

Group Bookings

Groups of any size are welcome at Ocean Backpackers, with options for exclusive use of the entire hostel. The setup is convenient for schools, sports clubs, and activity groups looking to explore the natural beauty of North Devon. The hostel offers budget accommodations to cater to the needs of varying group sizes.

Highlights

Location: Ilfracombe harbour, near the beach

Accommodations: Up to 46 guests, en-suite facilities

Facilities: Catering standard kitchen available

Activities: South West Coast Path and cycling routes

Must-do experiences

  • Discover the picturesque harbor at Ilfracombe's Landmark Theatre.
  • Sample freshly caught seafood at the famous Fish & Chips shop.
  • Stroll through the charming Tunnels Beaches for stunning coastal views.
  • Visit the unique Ilfracombe Museum for local history and art.
  • Join a guided wildlife boat tour to spot seals and dolphins!
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Select your room type

Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Family Room
2 persons
140 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Four-Bedroom Loft Apartment
2 persons
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Shower
Bathtub
Family Room En Suite
2 persons
100 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Bed 5-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
110 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.2/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • No pets allowed
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Table tennis
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Shared kitchen

Dining

  • Picnic area/ Tables

Children

  • Board games
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Beach access
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture

Self-catering

  • Shared kitchen

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
  • Curtains
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Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel Location

29 St James Place, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom, EX34 9BJ
Map view
29 St James Place, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom, EX34 9BJ
Nearby
Marina
Ilfracombe Harbour
1400 ft
Art object
Verity
1300 ft
Museum
Ilfracombe Museum
1200 ft
Gallery
Fleek Gallery
200 ft
Aquarium
Ilfracombe Aquarium
1900 ft
Ilfracombe Quay
South West Coast Path Walk
600 ft
Capstone Hill
1000 ft
Lee Bay Beaches
2300 ft
Garden
Runnymede Gardens
1700 ft
Cheyne Beach
700 ft
Store
The Curious Mr Fogg
200 ft
The Quay
700 ft
Lantern Hill
1000 ft
Capstone Parade
1100 ft
Beach
Wildersmouth Beach
1100 ft
Shopping Area
Ilfracombe Indoor Market
1200 ft
Restaurants
Maddys Chippy
200 ft
25/26 St. James Place
The Admiral Collingwood
200 ft
Wilder Road
Adele's Cafe
400 ft
8 Broad Street
Hip & Pistol
600 ft
8 St. James Place
No28 The Cookery
600 ft
28 St. James Place
Prince of Wales
600 ft
2-3 Fore Street
The Ilfracombe Fryer
400 ft
7-8 The Promenade Wilder Road
The Ketchup Takeaway
800 ft
1 Portland Street
Pandora Cafe
600 ft
Wilder Road No. 5 Belgrave Promenade
Explore Ilfracombe
Local Experiences
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Ilfracombe Harbour
Ilfracombe Harbour
5 minutes' walk
The picturesque harbour offers stunning coastal views and is rich in history, making it a perfect spot for leisure walks.
Verity
Verity
5 minutes' walk
A striking 20-meter statue by Damien Hirst, symbolizing themes of motherhood and life; an iconic photographic opportunity.
Ilfracombe Museum
Ilfracombe Museum
5 minutes' walk
This local museum features exhibitions on Ilfracombe's history and art, providing educational insights in a charming setting.
St Nicholas Chapel
St Nicholas Chapel
9 minutes' walk
A historic chapel located on Lantern Hill, offering incredible views and insights into local maritime history.
Water Sports
5 minutes' walk
Kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities await at Ilfracombe Beach, suitable for thrill-seekers of all levels.
Larkstone Family Park & Gardens
Larkstone Family Park & Gardens
13 minutes' walk
This family-friendly park features beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and walking trails for a perfect relaxing day outdoors.
Maddys Chippy
Maddys Chippy
1 minute' walk
A local favorite for fish and chips, offering fresh, flavorful meals in a casual setting; no reservations needed.
The Admiral Collingwood
The Admiral Collingwood
1 minute' walk
A traditional pub serving hearty British fare with a cozy ambiance, known for its local ales and friendly service.
Adele's Cafe
Adele's Cafe
2 minutes' walk
Known for its delightful breakfasts and homemade cakes, this cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere and vegetarian options.
Fleek Gallery
Fleek Gallery
5 minutes' walk
Showcasing contemporary art from local artists, this gallery hosts regular events and exhibitions in an engaging environment.
Ilfracombe Aquarium
Ilfracombe Aquarium
7 minutes' walk
An interactive aquarium featuring marine life native to the region, perfect for families and marine enthusiasts alike.
Getting around
City Centre
Ilfracombe11 min  ·  3000 ft
Airports
Exeter International (EXT)155 min  ·  64.1 mi
Cardiff (CWL)369 min  ·  152.6 mi
Bus
Bus stop18 min  ·  7.4 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-19:00
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
15

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 125 verified reviews
8.8/10
Great
94%
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.7/10
Comfort
8.4/10
Facilities
8.2/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.9/10
Location
9.3/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Guest reviews
based on 316 reviews
8.4/10
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FAQs
About Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel
What are the check-in and check-out times at Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
What popular attractions are close to Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel?
Nearby attractions include Wildersmouth Beach (300 m), Ilfracombe Tunnel Beaches (600 m), and Ilfracombe Museum (400 m).
How far is Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel from Exeter International Airport?
The hostel is 100 km from Exeter International Airport.
What recreational activities does Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel offer?
Guests can enjoy table tennis, hiking, cycling, canoeing, fishing, and mini-golf.
Are there any dining options on-site at Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel?
The hostel features a shared kitchen for guests to prepare their own meals.
What is the proximity of Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel to the nearest beach?
Wildersmouth Beach is a 300 m walk from the hostel.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and access to communal kitchen facilities.
Which nearby restaurants can guests visit from Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel?
Popular nearby restaurants include Antidote, The Admiral Collingwood, Relish Bar & Bistro, The Fuchsia Tea Gardens, Seventy One, Adele's Cafe, St James Tearoom, and Curiosity Cottage, all within 300 m.
Is smoking allowed at Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel?
Smoking is prohibited on site.
What scenic views and activities can guests expect around Ocean Backpackers Self-Catering Hostel?
The hostel is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty with coastal views and access to numerous walking and cycling trails.

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Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room