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Temporarily closed until further notice
Hele Corn Mill & Tea Room
Hele Corn Mill & Tea Room
5
Temporarily closedClosed until further notice
About
We will re-open for spring 2025. We are a family run 16th century watermill and a tearoom providing cream teas and cakes using wholemeal flour ground from organic wheat in our mill. There is free entry to the mill and 20 min information film. Please note :- All seating for our tearoom remains outside with undercover seating for 36 plus the Teagarden. Special diets catered for Dogs welcome on site but not in mill itself. There are Puzzles for children (and adults).
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Lesley M8 contributionsVisit Hele MillWe found this place by accident but well worth a visit especially if you have children. Mill excellent and the detail that has gone into information is second to none. Tea rooms food wonderful, homemade and good prices, staff very friendly and helpful. Miss it at your peril xxVisited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 30 March 2024
- Sharyn VRedhill, United Kingdom48 contributionsAmazing Cream TeaWow, wow, wow.....what a place. Hidden away, a beautiful tea room & mill run by a lovely couple, so friendly, the best cream tea I've had for years, scones made with their own milled flour .. delicious 😋 you can look round the mill itself which was fascinating, a secret garden which is tucked away and topped off with a really interesting film about how the mill worked. A real gem, must be visited... .Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 14 May 2024
- Sightseer24234246 contributionsHidden gem, fantastic tea and cake!A hidden gem! Fantastic afternoon tea; sandwich, scone cream and jam, cake and tea or coffee - all excellent! Then a walk round the watermill - and a film about the workings of the mill! Very friendly couple running this outside (but under cover) tea room. Highly recommended!! We were a party of 13 but this was no problem at all for the hosts.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 28 May 2024
- Rachael T4 contributionsA lovely place to visitA really lovely morning and lunch at the mill with our young children. Great to look around the beautiful setting. We had a delicious lunch of scones and soup in the pretty covered eating area. We also watched the film afterwards which we and the kids found really interesting! A gem of a place.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 1 June 2024
- Leanneehren34 contributionsCoeliac friendly afternoon teaDelicious gluten free afternoon tea where so much care was taken for cross contamination - and it was delicious! We rang in the morning before 10am go request gluten free afternoon tea and it was worth the planning. Lovely freshly baked scones and delicious lemon and elderflower cake. The sandwich was a perfect size with fresh salad and crisps. And such great value for £15 pp! The owners were also brilliant with our toddler too, when she enjoyed a perfectly sized Devonshire Slice! Would highly recommend this little cute hideaway, especially for coeliacs!Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 21 June 2024
- jscindy58 contributionsCustomer service and someMay I just say thank you to the owners who treated my mother and disabled brother with the upmost kindness. Mum’s in a wheelchair and doesn’t like fuss! He assessed the situation perfectly. Moreover, the food was to die for. Fantastic value, great quality and beautifully presented. Thank you so much. A welcome break after a long and ‘tetchy’ drive!You are most welcome, lovely to meet you all and glad the weather held for your visit. Thank you for your kind words regarding our food, which I will pass on. Rgds the MillerWritten 30 June 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 28 June 2024
- Mrs BTamworth, United Kingdom20 contributionsAbove and beyondA beautiful setting and really interesting restored mill where they use the flour milled to bake delicious cakes! I forgot to ring ahead to check for gluten free scones ... The lovely owner said they prefer a phone call first as they are baked fresh. The baker however kindly offered to bake some for me there and then! Within 30 minutes I was enjoying a freshly baked gluten free cream tea 😁😁😁 ... Nothing was too much trouble. Really impressed and very grateful. Such a treat!Visited July 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 14 July 2024
- Maggie B8 contributionsQuaintGorgeous little tea room. Plenty of choice and well priced. The lady serving us ( sorry we didn’t get your name) was very friendly and nothing was too much trouble. Well worth a visit if you are around this area. The lady also gave us tips on places to see around here. Thank you kind ladyVisited August 2024Travelled with familyWritten 5 August 2024
- Beckie W18 contributionsBeautiful cream tea in a lovely little settingWe managed to reserve a table under cover in advance which was a bonus as the weather was not on our side. We were greeted by the friendly owner who was happy to help entertain our LO as they were having a moment. The setting was lovely, and the cakes and tea’s, soups delicious. Interesting free tour around the mill its self too. Would highly recommend a visit.Visited August 2024Travelled with familyWritten 29 August 2024
- Abbie W8 contributionsGreat little findWe visited the tea room this afternoon. The owners were very welcoming, accommodating and attentive. The fruit scone was delicious and at great prices too. We visited whilst on our holiday, and it was the perfect ending to our trip. We would highly recommend.Visited September 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 15 September 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Emmaaf16
Chester, UK1 contribution
Jun 2021 • Family
Visited here a couple of days ago. Lovely setting and did not appear very busy at all. However ordering simply 3 teas and 3 pieces of cake it took over 45 mins. When asked how long it would be we were met with no apologies just “i don’t know at least another 10-15 mins, we are so busy and behind on orders” Other tables stated also waiting an hour and having to take orders always in the end because it took that long. Chap serving us was polite enough when ordering but no sincerity or empathy for his customers when being asked where our orders were. Also no warning of massive delay before placing order.
Written 26 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Emma
I do apologise for the length of time you had to wait. While to you it may not have appeared busy I looked at the booking sheet and your party were unfortunately the last of 60 people who had arrived within just one hour! As the weather was fine all 17 tables had visitors. Up until now I have always tried to accommodate walk ins as I know it is a mile before the next tearoom. This has backfired and compromised those that have booked in. Your comment regarding wait prompted my rush to the kitchen to see how long the list was and how long your order would take, at that point I was somewhat flustered. Our staffing level was barely half what we would normally have in the Summer. These are unusual times and at the heart of what we do is my wife and I trying to maintain a 16th C mill.
Written 7 July 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lovetravel
56 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
We visited as a group of 7 and all ordered the afternoon tea. This comes with a choice of scones, sandwiches and cakes and was good value for the amount of food provided (we couldn’t finish!). The scones were absolutely delicious and the cakes to die for. They are clearly very busy, so would advise calling in advance. The owner clearly takes pride in his restaurant and was lovely to chat to.
Written 24 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ALITTLESWEETIE80
Essex, London, England, UK91 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
We had a cream tea here during the week on our visit to the area. The male and female who run it are very organised and C19 aware. We felt very safe with all the precautions they have taken.
The cakes looked absolutely amazing which sadly we had no room for, having had the best cream tea and savoury cream tea we had sampled anywhere in the area.
Sadly the mill is closed, but credit to the staff for that as it’s closed to keep everyone as safe as possible from C19.
The staff were welcoming, friendly, and when serving food they did so with face masks and awareness of social distancing.
We feel incredibly fortunate to have found this little gem that’s tucked away from the masses.
😊 Thank you
The cakes looked absolutely amazing which sadly we had no room for, having had the best cream tea and savoury cream tea we had sampled anywhere in the area.
Sadly the mill is closed, but credit to the staff for that as it’s closed to keep everyone as safe as possible from C19.
The staff were welcoming, friendly, and when serving food they did so with face masks and awareness of social distancing.
We feel incredibly fortunate to have found this little gem that’s tucked away from the masses.
😊 Thank you
Written 15 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
21kimmy21
Hayling Island, UK60 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
A great little gem tucked away but well worth seeking out. An interesting display and self tour through the mill followed by the best cheese scones I've ever had. The gorgeous cakes are made with the mill's own flour and served in enormous portions.
Well worth a visit and the short walk from the P&D car park.
Well worth a visit and the short walk from the P&D car park.
Written 6 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sklartrek
Ilfracombe, UK8 contributions
May 2022
The friendliest staff and best freshest tastiest scones and cakes in the world let alone Ilfracombe. I say this having visited over years many times. The new information boards and tiny cinema with the professionally done film of the old history are a delight, and the water mill is often turning. the secret gardens are a slice of Devon heaven to listen to the birds and revel in nature.
Written 15 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jem D
3 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
This is NOT the number 1 thing to do in Ilfracombe. There is no parking. When we arrived we were told we had to park in a nearby car park and that they were full. A large booking had filled the entire place. So time to go again the next day right?…
it’s shut Thursday,Friday and Saturday- you know the days most likely to be visited by tourists. And this was peak season too. It’s cake and scones with a huge hassle. Not worth it. Ironically closer to the car park, with a sea view, is a great AND open 7 days a week cafe with great cream teas.
it’s shut Thursday,Friday and Saturday- you know the days most likely to be visited by tourists. And this was peak season too. It’s cake and scones with a huge hassle. Not worth it. Ironically closer to the car park, with a sea view, is a great AND open 7 days a week cafe with great cream teas.
Written 27 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I’m sorry you were disappointed on your recent visit to the mill. Being a rainy day we were very busy and, although we were able to accommodate some walk-ins, had a finite number of under cover tables. As advised on our website, it’s best to phone ON THE DAY FROM 9am to make a reservation.
We are a family run business and open 4 days a week. As you noticed on the webpage we are closed Thurs-Sat due to other commitments. Open Sun-Wed, 11-5pm. Bookings (and requests for GF/DF/vegan scones) on 01271 863185 from 9am on the day.
Written 9 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jonathan S
9 contributions
Sept 2021
Best cream teas in Devon bar none, relaxing atmosphere, and also really inspiring. We were warmly welcomed by David and he took the time to talk to us about the history of the mill and how it works. Another nice touch is the movie room in the barn next door, which gives curious people like me answers to all of my questions! Looking forward to coming back for lunch soon.
Written 8 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rosie
London, UK27 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
Very friendly welcome. Free parking on road outside but large pay/display park nearby on road to Hele Bay. Excellent cream tea with scones made from flour milled on site. Mill open for exploring and film about it in a room nearby. Guided tours available.
Written 11 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maria H
8 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
It's a wonderful place! While visiting the Ilfracombe area, make sure you stop at Hele Tearooms. The bread and all bakery was superb, as was the place, and the welcoming host who answered questions about the place and its history. They also had soups and some great gluten-free cakes.
There is a museum of bread, free to enter, with lots of information and displays about breadmaking. We were impressed by the resilience of the owners who resurrected the mill after the floods. We'll certainly visit again when in the area.
There is a museum of bread, free to enter, with lots of information and displays about breadmaking. We were impressed by the resilience of the owners who resurrected the mill after the floods. We'll certainly visit again when in the area.
Written 26 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
quintrelle
Barnstaple, UK101 contributions
Apr 2023
Having our family come over from the USA we decided to treat them to a cream tea. Knowing that not all cream teas are created equal we decided to read the reviews first.
Well, all I can say is the reviews do not lie, this really is the best cream tea ever!
Parking near by was not a big issue, outdoor seating area was fine but do wrap up on a cooler day as we found it a little breezy.
The owner and host was a lovely chap, very chatty with lots of information about the history of the place.
The scones themselves were without question the best I have ever had. Warm, crispy on the outside, melt in the mouth inside! Plenty of jam and clotted cream , decafe tea if required.
The mill itself was very interesting to visit.
If you are looking for "posh"with fancy bone china and plump armchairs then this is not the place for you. On the other hand if you are looking for a warm welcome, home made produce of the highest standard and scones you will remember long after your waistline has gone then you really do need to take a trip over to Hele. Well done chaps,long may you continue us to shine!
Well, all I can say is the reviews do not lie, this really is the best cream tea ever!
Parking near by was not a big issue, outdoor seating area was fine but do wrap up on a cooler day as we found it a little breezy.
The owner and host was a lovely chap, very chatty with lots of information about the history of the place.
The scones themselves were without question the best I have ever had. Warm, crispy on the outside, melt in the mouth inside! Plenty of jam and clotted cream , decafe tea if required.
The mill itself was very interesting to visit.
If you are looking for "posh"with fancy bone china and plump armchairs then this is not the place for you. On the other hand if you are looking for a warm welcome, home made produce of the highest standard and scones you will remember long after your waistline has gone then you really do need to take a trip over to Hele. Well done chaps,long may you continue us to shine!
Written 10 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are now closed until spring 2018 while we undertake renovation works starting with the Mill roof and then on to redecoration. Hopefully see you next year
Regards the Miller
Written 30 October 2017
We are coming over Thursday on the paddle steamer. Are you far away from the harbour please?
Written 25 July 2017
If you were to walk it takes about 35 mins by road as we are the other side of Hillsborough (big rock by harbour) so walk round harbour and keep hill to your left and stay on main road by Thatch Pub at top of slope and we are just off the main road before the petrol station on the right. if you walked over the top an hour would be sensible. Taxi no.
Ilfracombe Taxis 01271440258
Mikes Taxis 01271268434
A2B Taxis 01271867788
Costs around £3.50
Written 26 July 2017
ummabdillah2010
Streatley, United Kingdom
hello
is there anywhere to park near the tea room? thank you
Written 25 March 2017
There is no parking in the mill or Cornmill Close but you may be able to park in Watermouth Road which has no restrictions. The large public carpark is in Beach Road (to the left of Hele Bay pub). Parking is reasonably priced and free on Sundays. There is a footpath opposite the pub (next to bus stop) leading to the mill approx 300m. Not suitable for pushchairs though which are best to access via Cornmill Close. There is very limited parking at the mill itself and we suggest disabled visitors ring us in advance so we can keep a space where possible. If you need to drop off an infirm person please ring us (07554 310176 or 01271 863185) and we are happy to get them settled whilst you park elsewhere. Hope to see you soon!
Written 25 March 2017
Hl is the hell corn mill open on 15 /01 /2017 for cream tea??
Written 14 January 2017
Is the Hele corn. mill open on 15/01/2017 for cream tea ?
Regards Shirley C
Written 14 January 2017
Sorry Shirley for missing your question. Our first opening date is the 24th of March for Mother's Day weekend. Our dates for the year will shortly be published on our website
Written 22 January 2017
I'm so sorry I missed your question. We usually have one or two gf cakes, will make gf scones to order when you arrive if not too busy. Or order in advance. We always have gf bread ( frozen) that we toast plus a variety of fillings
Regards the Miller
Written 10 July 2016
Thanks for your enquiry. Dogs are welcome in the Teagarden and tearoom but not the mill itself as this is classed a 'food producing area'. Dog treats are also provided. Hope to see you soon! Good doggy walks from Ilfracombe over Hillsborough, or from Combe Martin or Berrynarbor. Currently open everyday except Saturday. Open 11 with last orders at 5.
Written 23 July 2015
Will it be open the last week in march
Written 5 March 2015
We will be opening for the season on Friday 27th March and will be open for Easter everyday until 12 April from 11am- 5pm. We then go back to three day opening (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) until the summer. Please see our website or leaflets for more details. I've been testing out some new cakes over winter so do come and visit us during your stay. We look forward to welcoming you to the Cornmill.
Written 7 March 2015
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