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Emlea Bed & Breakfast

Hi we’re, Chris and Penny, we both work within the heritage sector. Chris runs his own design consultancy and Penny works for one of the South West’s regional museums.

We moved to Babbacombe in 2006 after falling for Emlea, our Edwardian villa. Over the years, Emlea had fallen on hard times. However, her last owners had completed sympathetic renovations to the house and gardens and it’s a pervasive habit we’ve caught. The house is now the warm, comfortable, elegant property it had once been.

Emlea started life as a convalescent home for wounded soldiers. Although now a large semi it was probably built as one house. A connecting door under the stairs to next door is the visible legacy of this phase. The 1911 census lists the first owner as a retired army officer. Further research has shown he lost his only son in France on 20 April 1917 - hence the military connection.

Named after a previous owner Emily Leaman, we’re still finding out more of our house’s history to share with our guests.

Our tranquil Edwardian home offers...

Wellswood Room: reflects the elegance of the nearby suburb of Wellswood, this bedroom has a king size bedstead and single day bed with large ensuite shower room.

Chelston Room: Torquay’s artistic suburb of Chelston is captured in this chic bedroom. It has a super king size* bed integral sink as well as ensuite shower room, with power shower.
* two zipped linked beds which can also create a twin room

Conservatory: a place for that late morning coffee with newspapers, or after your day’s exertions a sunny room for afternoon tea, or a quiet evening retreat.

For your convenience both bedrooms have beverage facilities, hair dryer and sewing box, digital TV and wireless network.

All our produce is either made on the premises or sourced locally.

Home made bread and preserves are our specialty with a hearty English breakfast, plus selection of seasonal alternatives. Vegetarian option and special dietary needs can be catered for, please let us know your requirements when booking.

For that little bit extra we offer...
Mid morning coffee with home made biscuits and traditional afternoon Devon cream tea. Picnic hampers can be ordered when we confirm your booking.

You might think Torquay is just a summer seaside resort, but it has a rich historic legacy. This legacy includes amazing artworks, evocative architecture and ancient landscapes; many tucked away from the main tourist routes, and as your hosts we know just where to look.

Not only can we provide you with elegant Edwardian Bed & Breakfast accommodation, but with over 40 years experience in the heritage sector, we can also unlock the door to Torbay’s hidden treasures; giving you a unique and memorable break at the heart of South Devon.