This Victorian gothic mansion sits in 84 acres of National Trust parkland, with the beauty of Dovedale just on its doorstep. The beautiful youth hostel is full of character and nestled near the quaint village of Ilam.
A 25-minute walk from Ilam Park, the Dovedale Stepping Stones have remained a huge draw for Peak District day-trippers since they were laid in the mid-19th century. You'll also encounter some of England's most extraordinary limestone gorge scenery. For a different thrill, the hostel is just 15 minutes from Alton Towers. Nearby Carsington Water is great for having a go at a range of water sport activities or learning all about the water cycle.
Reception hours: From 07:30 - 22:00.
Food and drink: Breakfast is served to guests from 07:30 – 09:00 daily. Meals are also available from 17:00 – 20:30.
Licensed bar: This hostel has a licensed bar offering a range of alcohol and soft drinks. It is not possible for guests to bring their own alcohol.
Self-catering: Guests have access to a self-catering kitchen.
Parking: The car park is owned and operated by the National Trust. Parking is free for National Trust members. YHA Guests are charged a discounted rate of £5 for the duration of their stay, this can be purchased at reception.
WiFi: WiFi is available in shared social spaces. There is no phone signal within the building, though you can make WiFi calls if your phone supports this.
Dogs: Pets are not permitted at YHA Ilam Hall. Assistance dogs are welcome - please notify us at the time of booking.
Guest access: The hostel is situated in extensive grounds belonging to the National Trust that are open to the public.
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From the National Trust grounds of Ilam Park this walk passes through the village of Ilam, and the lovely countryside of the White Peak, to a stroll alongside the River Dove and the popular stepping...
A lovely walk through parkland, farmland and on a riverside path. Great views of the southern Peak District towards Dovedale and Thorpe Cloud – the flat topped hill – and very scenic along the River...
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Tuesday 30th September 2025 Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km) Duration: 3 hours Led by: Catherine Hughes, British Nordic Walking National Trainer Skills and confidence Enjoy learning how to Nordic Walk using...
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Ashbourne has remained largely unchanged since the 18th century, with it's Medieval street pattern and historic buildings.
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The nearby Carsington Water offers equipment hire and a range of courses in sailing, kayaking, windsurfing and powerboating for absolute beginners through to instructors.
Try horse riding, pony trekking or Trail riding through stunning Peak District scenery.
Volunteering with YHA is a fantastic way to have fun, learn new skills, boost your CV and travel to different places. We have a variety of different opportunities to choose from and volunteering roles to suit everyone.
The tasks are varied and in return you will meet some great people, who both work and stay in our hostels, as well as enjoying your time off discovering the local area and attractions.
Find out more and apply to volunteer.
YHA Ilam Hall has a varied history. It was originally built in the 15th Century by the Sir John Port family. After many years in the family, due to finical difficulties the manor and all its land were sold.
In the 17th century it was the home of the Russell-Watts family. Under their ownership the building was completely re-designed by architect John Shaw and rebuilt in its current gothic style. Not only did the family transform the manor, they also moved and re-modelled Ilam village. They built new houses for the villagers and a local school. Controversially, they also re-directed the road that used to run in front of the manor, crossing the river at St Betrams Bridge.
In the early 1930s, ownership came into the hands of Mr Backhouse. The entrepreneur transformed the building to be used as a hotel and pleasure grounds. Unfortunately, the business failed and again the manor was sold, this time to a demolition company. After a few years, most of the elegant rooms and ornate parts of the building had been demolished; the building was saved and restored by Robert McDougal and John Cadbury.
In 1932, the reaming 84 acres of land and the manor were donated to the National Trust with the agreement the building was to be used as a youth hostel. The Ilam Hall you now see is only a third of its original size and it is mostly the servants' quarters that remain.
Free parking on premises
Garden/grounds
Games
WiFi
Free parking on premises
Restaurant
Free parking on premises
Cycle store
Shared laundry room
WiFi
Self-catering kitchen
Contactless payments
