A rare look at the team effort, tradition and Dartmoor-grown origins of Bovey Castle’s iconic 17-ft festive centrepiece.

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Every December, visitors step into Bovey Castle’s grand Cathedral Room and are met with a sight that has become nothing short of legendary. The 17 ft Christmas tree, glittering with vintage décor, warm lights and all the magic of a true Dartmoor Christmas, has become a festive tradition in its own right. Behind this dazzling moment is a large-scale operation that requires planning, precision and a dedicated team.

This year, the installers behind one of Devon’s biggest indoor Christmas trees have shared an inside look at the process. For the first time, the Bovey Castle team recorded a full time-lapse video to show the scale of the effort that brings this much-loved tree to life.

A Tree 15 Years in the Making

The tree’s story began 15 years ago when a Nordmann Fir sapling was planted on Dartmoor. It has grown into a magnificent centrepiece that now takes pride of place inside the Cathedral Room each festive season. Guests often remark on its height, its classic decorations and the atmosphere it creates throughout the hotel.

The Installation: A Full Day of Work

Bringing the tree indoors is a project in itself. This year, four team members spent an entire day positioning the tree, securing it carefully and decorating it from top to bottom. Once finished, the tree featured:

• 6,000 lights
• 700 baubles
• 50 handmade bows

The result is a showstopping display that transforms the space and sets the scene for Christmas breaks, winter celebrations and festive dining at Bovey Castle.

A Behind-the-Scenes Tradition

Dean Gunston, General Manager at Bovey Castle, notes how many guests are curious about the work involved.

“Our Christmas tree really is a festive showstopper and every year we are quizzed about the amount of time and effort that goes into decorating it. The time-lapse probably does not do the team effort justice, but it provides an interesting peek into what happens behind the scenes.”

He also shares one helpful tip for anyone decorating at home this Christmas.

“One top tip for anybody out there who is decorating a Christmas tree is to remember to put the star on while it is still lying down.”

Experience Christmas at Bovey Castle

The Christmas tree is only one part of what makes Bovey Castle such a magical festive destination. From roaring fires and countryside views to seasonal celebrations and beautifully crafted dining experiences, the hotel offers a truly unforgettable Christmas getaway in the heart of Devon.