A ferret from Bovey Castle is in the running to become the oldest of its kind as it gears up to mark its 15th birthday this summer!

Say hello to Suki

Suki, who is a female silver ferret, is preparing for her major milestone in the grounds of Bovey Castle, where she has lived for the past six years greeting families with her furry friends Henry aged two, and Lilly and Grace, both aged three.

Ferrets live for around six years, but can live up to ten years if in good health, according to the RSPCA.

Suki’s age has been revealed ahead of National Ferret Day (April 2) by Hannah Bathard, Activities Manager at Bovey Castle, who has helped to care for Suki since 2009.

She said: “While I don’t know Suki’s specific birthday, I have a photo of her from September 2009 when she was around eight weeks old, which means she will be at least 15 this July – which is phenomenal.

When we found out there was a National Ferret Day, we felt it was a fitting time to share Suki’s amazing life with the world.

She used to be a working ferret and was given to Bovey Castle around six years ago after she retired by her then owner Martin Whitley, who runs falconry displays at the hotel, and has nurtured ferrets since he was a child.

Suki has always thrived off socialising with both humans and her fellow ferrets, which I think has been the key to her longevity – along with a healthy mixed diet of high protein ferret nugget and off-cuts of meat!”

Children interacting with ferrets on a spring break in the uk

Meet Suki and her friends

Suki and co have a dedicated structure packed full of hay and tunnels in the grounds of 5 AA Red Star manor house hotel, Bovey Castle, where visitors can pay them a visit.

Hannah added: “Every day at 9am a member of our activities team hosts a 30-minute session where visitors can get hands-on with our ferrets and then go on to feed breakfast to our rescue chickens.

“The sessions are very popular, so we’d urge families to book in advance – especially now that Suki has had her moment of fame!”

For more information about visiting the ferrets at Bovey Castle, head to www.boveycastle.com/meet-the-chickens-and-ferrets

Bovey Castle has won the gold award for Large Hotel of the Year in South West Tourism Excellence Awards, with over 300 delegates attending the event in the Great Hall at the University of Exeter.

The hotel, which is part of the Eden Hotel Collection, fought off stiff competition from the regional finalists in Gloucestershire and Dorset to claim the top prize, with a £1.2m kitchen refurbishment, significant investment in employee development, a commitment to local produce and an unforgettable guest experience all contributing to the winning entry.

The award comes after Bovey also claimed gold in the Large Hotel category at the Devon Tourism Awards.

The ceremony capped a 12-month selection and judging process, with cafes, pubs, karting centres,schools and distilleries up for a total of 89 awards alongside attractions, camping and glamping sites, holiday parks, B&Bs and cottages.

As well as its 3AA Rosette Great Western Grill restaurant and 1AA Rosette Smith’s Brasserie, Bovey Castle has 60 bedrooms throughout the historic manor alongside 22 self-catering country lodges, as well as on-site activities from archery and golf to 4×4 driving experiences and deer park tours.

Dean Gunston, General Manager of Bovey Castle, said: “We are extremely proud of this award as there has been a monumental effort from people throughout our team to raise the bar in terms of the visitor experience and further establish Bovey as a special place to visit.

“It was fantastic to see so many great businesses and venues in the region being recognised for the brilliant work they do in creating such a strong tourism offer in the South West.

“To secure the national award would be an amazing achievement both for ourselves and the wider region, and would set us up nicely for an exciting year ahead.”

Experience Dartmoor’s lively transition to spring, as the beautiful landscape bursts with vibrant colours and energy as the season shifts. From an ancient woodland walk, to a scenic picnic and even a visit to Dartmoor Zoo to spot the local animals, there’s plenty of things to do on Dartmoor National Park this spring…

Rolling Dartmoor hills on a clear, sunny day

1. Things to do on Dartmoor: Wistman’s Wood

If you’re looking for things to do on Dartmoor National Park that gets you stuck into the great outdoors, why not visit Wistman’s Wood. Embark on a journey through one of Britain’s last remaining ancient temperate rainforests during this long, but beautiful, trail. This is also perfect for botanists to discover the diverse flora while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

Ancient trees in Wistman's Wood

2. Things to do on Dartmoor: Bovey Castle

Explore the rugged beauty of Dartmoor at the luxurious Bovey Castle, with years of history to uncover, make the castle your home during your visit to Dartmoor and book a stay. With the chance to indulge in award-winning meals, exhilarating outdoor activities, and serene walks, our hotel, located in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, is the perfect home away from home. 

The hotel is also open to visitors who want to explore everything the castle has to offer. 

3. Things to do on Dartmoor: Foggintor Quarry

What better things to do on Dartmoor National Park  than uncover its rich history at Foggintor Quarry of all places. This abandoned quarry offers a glimpse into the region’s industrial past, set amongst the stunning natural surroundings.

Scenic Foggintor Quarry as the sun sets amongst things to do in Dartmoor national park

4. Things to do on Dartmoor: Dartmoor Zoo

Create unforgettable family memories at Dartmoor Zoo, and get up close and personal with a variety of exotic animals, while learning about their fantastic conservation efforts.

Lions at Dartmoor Zoo in front of an admiring audience

5. Things to do on Dartmoor: Buckfast Butterfly Farm & Otter Rescue

Experience the wonder of nature at Buckfast Butterfly Farm & Otter Rescue. Where you will have the chance to witness a variety of butterfly species in their element, and spot the playful antics of rescued otters.

An excellent blue butterfly at Buckfast Butterfly Farm

6. Things to do on Dartmoor: Buckland Abbey

Great for history buffs looking for things to do on Dartmoor National Park, step back in time at Buckland Abbey. This historic estate offers fascinating insights into Dartmoor’s rich heritage, with family-friendly activities.

Buckland Abbey provides great things to do in Dartmoor national park

7. Things to do on Dartmoor: Picnic by Cadover Lakes

Perhaps you’re looking for things to do on Dartmoor National Park that are a little bit more romantic for you and your partner. The picturesque Cadover Lakes is the ideal base for indulging in a peaceful picnic, taking in the stunning lake views that are surrounded by Dartmoor’s natural splendour. 

A traditional picnic next to Cadover Lake

8. Things to do on Dartmoor: Spa retreat at Bovey Castle

Talking about romance and peace, treat your significant other to a relaxing and rejuvenating sauna or spa treatment at Bovey Castle. Our award-winning spa is perfect for couples seeking a tranquil retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.

Bovey Castle spa retreat showing a person walking by a large pool and windows overlooking Dartmoor

9. Things to do on Dartmoor: Lydford Gorge and Canonteign Falls

Discover the tranquil beauty of Canonteign Falls, and the hidden landscape at Lydford Gorge, with both offering a refreshing escape and unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and explorers alike.

10. Things to do on Dartmoor: Alder Vineyard

With the weather perking up, savour the sophistication of Alder Vineyard on a warm spring day. Sample exquisite wines amidst scenic vineyards, offering a unique and memorable experience.

Two glasses toasting red wine

11. Things to do on Dartmoor: Castle Drogo

Castle Drogo is a beautiful 20th century castle that overlooks the Teign Gorge, and is a popular choice with tourists and locals alike. The walk to Fingle Bridge is only 5 minutes from our hotel, with an amazing view and a lovely walk to the river where you can cool off and enjoy a wild swim.

From thrilling outdoor adventures, to wholesome family outings and romantic getaways, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their visit to Dartmoor National Park. Don’t miss out on all the fun this season, book our exclusive spring offer now at Bovey Castle or our luxury lodges, and unearth the natural beauty and charm of this captivating destination this spring.

Up for some family fun this spring? If a unique, luxurious and unforgettable family spring break in the UK is what you’re looking for, you’re in the right place. Our beautiful hotel in Devon is the perfect paradise for your family to soak up the long-awaited warmer weather and fully embrace the spring spirit, whether that’s lacing up your boots and enjoying the outdoor activities, admiring the blossoming flora and fauna, or simply spending quality time together… 

Beautiful floral field with the sun setting in the background

1. Say hello to our animals and insects

With the days getting longer and warmer, many of our resident animals and insects around the grounds are coming out of hibernation, and soaking up the sun for themselves. If you’re an animal lover, this is the perfect chance to get up close and personal with some of nature’s friends during your spring break in the UK. 

Choose from our exclusive Deer Park Tour, where you’ll learn all about the deer life cycle, nutrition and how they fit into the conservation model on the Bovey Castle estate. Or perhaps, you’d prefer being introduced to Suki, Lilly, Grace and Henry, our friendly ferrets alongside the chickens, who love meeting and interacting with children. If you’re a honey lover, why not book our Bee Keeping Experience, to see the bees in action, alongside our fantastic bee keepers.

Children interacting with ferrets on a spring break in the uk

2. Outdoor activities galore

A visit to Bovey Castle wouldn’t be complete without checking off an outdoor activity or two. Liven up your spring break in the UK and discover our range of on-site activities that promise to keep the whole family entertained. From our air rifle shooting experience where you can practise your aim using an array of targets, to one of our guests favourites, archery, where you can embrace your inner ‘Robin Hood’. Whether you want to learn a new skill, or get competitive with your family, our on-ground activities will keep you busy this spring.

Man and woman aim air rifles at targets in the distance during spring break in the uk

3. Indulge in our delicious treats

There’s nothing better than indulging in some delicious treats on a well-deserved spring break in the UK. We invite you to enjoy an array of award-winning dining experiences with us here at Bovey Castle. From our quality, classic meals served in the Great Western Grill, a traditional Sunday Lunch fit with all the trimmings, to an unforgettable Afternoon tea experience full with sweet and savoury delights, ready for you and your family to tuck into. What’s not to love about all these delicious dining experiences in Devon this spring?

4. A fun family day out at Canonteign Falls

Discover Devon’s hidden gem, Canonteign Falls, and experience fun for all the family. Nestled at the edge of Dartmoor, these breathtaking waterfalls and lakes reopen March 18th… explore 90 acres of rolling Dartmoor scenery, abundant with adventure play areas and a brand new family of willow dinosaurs to find. If that isn’t exciting enough, you can also experience a one-of-a-kind encounter with the many alpacas from April 9th.

This family-fun day out is the perfect place to relax, laugh, play and embrace the quality time you spend together. 

Waterfall under a bridge at Canonteign Falls

5. Explore Dartmoor with your best friend

When we say the whole family can enjoy this spring break, we really mean it. As a dog-friendly hotel, we welcome your four legged friends, so you don’t have to leave them behind. Treat them to a trip to Dartmoor National Park, a beautifully unique location all year round, the open moorlands, deep river valleys, and rare wildlife are in abundance during spring, making it ideal for your dogs to explore the great outdoors and for you to soak up the glorious views too. 

Long furred dog stands in a floral field during spring break in the uk

Spring offers at Bovey Castle

Your spring break in the UK begins here, with our exclusive two or three night stay offer or our relaxing spring lodge retreats. Make the most of your spring getaway, and escape the usual hustle and bustle of life on a fun-filled break with the family. Our spectacular Spring offers and lodge stays are available from 1st March 2024 – 30th May 2024. Book your stay and offer today.

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Whether you want to enjoy the New Year in style, keep the festivities going or treat yourself to a relaxing break, our winter hotel break has something for everyone to look forward to and enjoy. Sit back and let us create a magical and memorable winter experience for you and whoever you choose to spend your wintertide break with.

For the adrenaline junkies

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If you have an appetite for adrenaline you’ll love our exhilarating off road driving activity. This experience gives thrill seekers the chance to drive one of our Land Rovers around the timber extraction tracks in the outer-estate woodlands and test out your driving skills. Take in the beautiful views of our golf course and the vast countryside whilst you travel up the Moor Field for a true challenge.

If you’re still looking for more to get your heart pumping, why not try out our air rifle shooting experience? Use one of our 22 gas powered rifles and enjoy perfecting your aim with a range of targets from scored target sheets to rubber ducks. What’s great about both of these activities is that they take place on our grounds and surrounding areas, meaning you can reach them easily and quickly from your room or lodge doorstep when you choose a winter hotel break with us.

During your winter hotel break you can choose to wind down in one of our luxurious rooms or cosy up in one of our intimate and lavish lodges.

For families

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Explore the natural beauty of Bovey Castle on a winter hotel break with the whole family. If you’re a family of animal lovers our on-site Deer Park tour experience is perfect for you. You’ll be given the opportunity to learn all about deer, from their lifestyle to their incorporation at Bovey Castle. Spot our wonderful deer dotted around the snowy winter grounds when you embark on the tour and enjoy a truly magical experience with the family.

Sticking with the animal theme, step back in time and enjoy a magical carriage ride to North Bovey. Learn about the local history, explore the magnificent scenery and do it all in a comfortable carriage that will make for a memorable experience. The February half term is a fantastic opportunity for you and your family to whisk yourselves away on a winter hotel break, in one of our contemporary and intimate lodges. Keep the whole family occupied, enjoy unique experiences and make long-lasting memories together.

Together, as a family, you’ll have the choice to enjoy one of our luxurious rooms or cosy up in one of our intimate and lavish lodges.

February Half Term Adventure Lodge Offer

Fancy a fun-filled February half term winter hotel break instead? We’ve got just the thing for you with our half term lodge offer that will bring you and your family closer. If you’re looking for adventure, wanting to create long-lasting memories and experience action-packed activities, this offer is perfect for you.

From £886.00 per lodge per night.

A two night stay in one of our lodges includes:

– A Continental Breakfast pack for the first morning of your stay

– Access to the hotel facilities, including the Elan Spa and dining (book in advance)

– Chicken and ferret handling, falconry displays, tennis, croquet and more!

– An activity for adults and children, choose from:

Our February Half Term Family Adventure offer is available from Saturday 11th – Saturday 18th February 2023.

Call 01647 445000 to book or BOOK ONLINE

For couples

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A winter hotel break is the perfect way to spend some quality time with your partner and soak up Bovey Castle in the winter. Brave the winter outdoors and visit our stunning 18-hole championship golf course and challenge your partner to a friendly or competitive game of golf or enjoy some golfing lessons together with a beautiful backdrop that will even cheer the loser up.

From sports to spa days, during your winter hotel break slink off to our Elan Spa. The perfect tranquil sanctuary where you can enjoy a treatment each and take advantage of our quality spa facilities from the indoor Art Deco swimming pool, whirpool to the steam room. Take the whole day to soak up the serenity of our spa with your loved one and refresh your skin, ready for this winter.

After a fun-filled and relaxing break, enjoy a meal at Smith’s Brasserie, a luxurious dining experience like no other. With a menu full of delicious dishes, a welcoming atmosphere and exquisite views, your romantic winter hotel break at Bovey Castle just got even better.

Enjoy your couples winter hotel break in one of our luxurious rooms or cosy up in one of our intimate and lavish lodges.

For friend and family get togethers

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Enjoy an extra special friend and family get together this winter with us. To really get your heart racing and explore the grounds, why not hire a bike at our reception and enjoy a group bike ride. If you’d prefer to discover more of Devon and its natural beauty we recommend the local bike hire centre in Moretonhampstead, Dartmoor Bike Hire.

For large groups our private estate lodges are the perfect base for you to enjoy the ultimate winter hotel break. Stylish, contemporary and unashamedly indulgent, our fully-kitted out lodges give you control over your own winter break and ensure a truly intimate experience can be enjoyed by everyone. With gorgeous views, cosy furnishings and the hotel on your doorstep, your group won’t have to worry about a thing during your wonderful winter stay. If you’d prefer your group can stay in our luxurious rooms with exquisite furnishings and great facilities to make your stay special.

The Bovey Winter Stay Offer

Enjoy our Bovey winter hotel break with a difference when you choose to stay with us and make use of our winter stay offer, so you, your family, your friends or your partner can enjoy a fun-filled, luxurious and unique winter break.

Rooms Offer

£349.00 per person, per night. Based on Classic room type.
2 nights accommodation
Dinner on one evening*
Afternoon Tea on one day in the Great Western Restaurant
Full English breakfast both mornings from

This offer is available from 01/01/23 – 28/02/23

*£45.00 food allocation towards dinner in Smith’s Brasserie or The Tasting Room

Lodges Offer

£784.00 per lodge, per night
2 nights accommodation with a £150.00 food credit*

This offer is available from 01/01/23 – 28/02/23

*£150.00 food credit per lodge, per stay. Can be redeemed towards lunch and dinner in Smith’s Brasserie, afternoon tea, or breakfast and dinner in the lodge.

Call 01647 445000 to book or BOOK ONLINE

From animal friendly family fun, spa date days for couples and exhilarating activities for those daring individuals, Bovey Castle has so much to offer. Start the new year off right with a fun and unique winter hotel break. Wind down, enjoy new experiences and treat yourself to a stay with us this winter. Book your winter stay today.

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There is no doubt that a wedding will certainly represent one of the most important days of your life. It therefore stands to reason that you and your guests will require nothing less than the very best in terms of options and the property itself. Discover the perfect castle wedding in the UK at Bovey Castle…

What aspects need to be considered when choosing an English wedding venue? A handful of variables include the scenery, the ambiance, the location and the ability to cater to the discrete needs of all attendees. When nothing but the best will do, the services at Bovey Castle will provide memories to last a lifetime. Let us take a closer look at what you can expect to enjoy.

Castle Wedding Dartmoor: A History of Exquisite Elegance

Located within the tranquil confines of Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle boasts a rich history and a truly stunning appearance. Its Victorian ambiance provides the perfect backdrop for your special day and with a history stretching back to 1930, such timeless elegance will add an undeniably classical mood to the wedding as well as the experiences of your guests. While there is no doubt that such aspects have enabled Bovey Castle to appeal to discerning couples, there is much more to be appreciated other than physical appeal alone.

A Host of Activities

Our location within Dartmoor National Park provides you with a host of unique activities and options to choose from. These can include:

Falconry
Golf
Clay pigeon shooting
Fishing
Swimming
Spa treatments
Off Road Driving Experience 

Should you or your guests be arriving with little ones, there are a host of child-friendly activities available through supervised programme known as Bovey Rangers. Tennis lessons, face painting and even building campfires will keep children entertained for hours on end. You can therefore immerse yourself within the confines of Bovey Castle or enjoy a meal at the Great Western; a three AA rosette restaurant. This English wedding venue is certainly worth a closer look.

Experiencing the Unparalleled Opulence of Bovey Castle Hotel

Our five-star hotel is one of the most well-known properties throughout Devon, and for good reason. Nestled within no less than 275 acres of pristine nature, this tranquil atmosphere is punctuated by no less than 60 rooms to choose from. Each is associated with its own decor, so no two options are ever alike. Single and double rooms, locations with a panoramic view of the countryside and unforgettable grand state rooms are a handful of options to choose from. Amenable rates and an impeccable attention to detail both serve to define this luxury wedding venue UK.

To learn more about these amazing possibilities or to book a reservation, please contact us at your earliest possible convenience. We will be more than happy to help.

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Happy Birthday Dartmoor! 70 years ago, Dartmoor was designated as one of the the UK’s first National Parks, on 30 October 1951! In the same year, the Peak District, Lake District and Snowdonia were also awarded the designation. Dartmoor is a beautiful, wild, and incredible place to visit and explore, why not visit for yourself and find out why we love it here so much.

To celebrate Dartmoor’s 70th Birthday we have come up with the top 7 things to do on Dartmoor in 2021 (there’s so much to do here it was hard choosing just 7), keep reading to find out more…

Dartmoor’s Ancestors and their history

The rich history of Dartmoor dates back to around 10,000 years ago, where people were visiting Dartmoor to hunt for food and then, from about 4,500 years ago people who were known as the Bronze Age Farmers began to settle down and farm the land. In medieval England, roughly 1,000 years ago the improving climate and increasing population brought many new settlers on Dartmoor. And even today you can still see the medieval landscape the same as it would have looked 700 years ago.

When visiting why not explore the old manor houses, churches, and medieval fields. You can take a short trip from Bovey Castle to the iconic Hound Tor Medieval Village which is a deserted village from the Bronze Age, consisting of a cluster of 13th century stone longhouses or why not visit the restored longhouse in Higher Uppacott?

The history continues with the Victorians, who brought different industries and lots of wealthy people to change the Dartmoor landscape, inviting steam trains to be built with a train line running over the Wray Valley which can still be visited and explored today!

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Dartmoor ‘Time for Nature’ Challenge

Did you know? Dartmoor was covered in tropical forests for millions of years! Today, Dartmoor is an important reserve for rare species including different varieties of plants and animals, it also has one of the main concentrations of oak woods in the UK.

Visit Dartmoor are celebrating the 70th Birthday of Dartmoor with their ‘Time for Nature Challenge’. Come and test yourself with this interactive nature challenge which was created to help visitors not only explore the wildlife make new discoveries about the world around us. It’s important to recognise how the small changes we can make as individuals have a great impact on protecting the wildlife around us for future generations. Discover how to get involved with the ‘Time for Nature Challenge’ on their website click here.

The Infamous Dartmoor Ponies

There’s so much wildlife to enjoy and the Dartmoor Ponies are a species that are iconic to Dartmoor. So iconic that the pony was chosen as the National Park’s logo in 1951. They are an integral part of the moorland landscape and one of the main attractions for visitors to the area, contributing to Dartmoor’s unique character. There are lots of different types of ponies who reside on Dartmoor today, they have been used for many different jobs including pit ponies, shepherding, taking the family to the market and even sometimes carrying the postman to deliver the mail! The smaller ponies are called Shetlands and were originally used in the mining industry. Click here to read more about the Dartmoor Ponies and how to keep yourself and the ponies safe when visiting.

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Dartmoor’s Myths and Legends

If you want to spook yourself out, discover the many legends and folk lore’s that reside on Dartmoor! These stories are passed on by word of mouth down the generations and are based on true tales. Discover the stories of the past giants, witches, pixies, and evil ones who have inhabited Dartmoor over the years. Learn about ghost stories of Dartmoor too. Click here to discover myths and legends on Dartmoor and learn about all the strange phenomena’s that have prevailed over the years. Delve deep into your imagination and picture the wicked Vixana peering over the top of Vixen Tor or imagine the body of poor Childe the Hunter lying next to the cross which marks where his body was found.

Moor Otters Arts Trail

Moor Otters is a feel-good public arts project that attracts young and old for an amazing journey of discovery and making memories. The Moor Otters Arts Trail consists of 81 stunning sculptures of otters with cubs, all designed by local and national artists creating a total of four arts trails. This fun and interactive arts trail encourages visitors to spot the otters on the moor. Ending on Sunday 19th September 2021, where the otters will then be rounded up ready for auction and be available for collectors to purchase their favourite piece. The funds raised are put towards vital conservation projects for the National Park. Find out more about the Moor Otters Arts Trail here.

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Dartmoor’s Geology

The granite that belongs to Dartmoor was produced over 300 million years ago and over the past 10,000 years humankind from the Middle Stone Age have shaped the landscape into a beautiful place to live. People have been living on the moor for thousands of years, explore the moors and you can discover traces of past lives etched into the land itself! Together, Mother Nature and Humankind have joint forces to create a stunning landscape full of varied for beautiful nature and wildlife to inhabit. If you’re into rocks and geology, why not visit the top 10 archaeological sites on Dartmoor, discover more by clicking here.

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Dartmoor’s Little Five

Rivalling Africa’s infamous ‘Big Five’ wildlife (the lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros), Dartmoor’s ‘Little Five’ are infamous on the moorlands and are rare, secretive and fascinating…

First up, the blue ground beetle. The ancient oak woodlands contain moss-covered boulders and tree trunks where this fierce predator hides. The blue ground beetle is one of the largest and rarest beetles in the UK it grows to a whopping one and a half inches and has long metallic blue legs. Next, the cuckoo bird. The cuckoo is a dove sized bird with grey colouring. They spend summer on Dartmoor and migrate 10,000 miles to the Congolese tropical rainforests in winter. The marsh fritillary butterfly is a rare, medium sized butterfly which can be spotted from May to June in the wet grassland on Dartmoor. Otters are infamous to Dartmoor with a medium-dark brown colouring and grow up to a metre in length. Otters are mainly nocturnal and travel large distances of up to 20km of river habitat. And finally, the ash black slug which is renowned as the world’s largest slug and can exceed 20cm! Another nocturnal animal, it can be found in the woodlands on Dartmoor and will feed on fungi and algae along the tree stumps. Did you know? Slugs are hermaphrodites, meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs. Find out more about Dartmoor’s ‘Little Five’ wildlife and how to find it by clicking here.

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Sound like fun? If you need more time to ‘Explore More on the Moor’ why not enjoy a fabulous private lodge break with our exclusive offer. Get either five nights for the price of four or seven nights for the price of five! Discover our fabulous lodge offer and book now by clicking here.

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If you’re planning a visit to Bovey Castle, then you will know we have the best range of activities for one of the best adventure holidays in Devon this year. From exhilarating off road driving tracks to peaceful visits to our Deer Park we have something for everyone. You will have so much fun at Bovey Castle, why not come and find out for yourself?

We couldn’t run our activities department without our fantastic team, and we are so grateful to have our very own female Bear Grylls right here at Bovey Castle, meet our Activities Manager, Hannah! We asked Hannah a few questions so you could get to know her before visiting, if you’re interested, please keep reading…

Growing up, what did you want to be when you were older?

A dentist or a dancer which I still do.

How did you get into the activities role you are in now?

I had worked here previously in activities from 2008 for 3 years. I had other jobs in between but was looking for an outdoors activity job again years later and the timing was right as they were hiring again. Have been back about 4 years now.

What season is your favourite at Bovey for activities?

Spring because the flowers are just stunning here.

You are a qualified 4×4 driving instructor, tell us about how you got your qualification?

Other instructors and I go to train up at Honiton with Land Rover Experience on their tracks there. I am BORDA British off-road Driving qualified and passed the ‘higher standard’.

What do you do in your spare time? Any interesting hobbies?

I love dance and performing, horse riding and clay shooting. I am a trainee horse trick rider and our team perform in jousting and trick shows up and down the country.

Favourite animal spotting on the estate?

Little baby stoats playing. I love ferrets so it’s a wild version of that.

If you were a Disney character, which one would you be?

Merida from Brave, as she is a strong character and can handle a bow and arrow!

If you could have dinner with one famous person, dead or alive, who would it be?

Dawn French because she’s really funny and likes chocolate a lot!

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What are two items on your bucket list?

Long horse-riding holidays and an aeroplane wing walk.

What would be your dream holiday?

Horse riding across Canada staying in ranches as I go.

If you could choose any superpower, what would it be?

To stop time, as there’s never enough hours in the day!

If you could time travel, where would you go?  

VE day on 8 May 1945. There were lots of celebrations and street parties to mark the end of the war, everyone would have been in such good spirits.

If you had a magic lamp, what would your three wishes be?

To have massages every day. Never get old. It not to rain.

Now you know more about Hannah, why not come down and meet her? We have so much to do here and Hannah is very excited to meet you! Discover adventure holidays at Bovey Caslte… Plan your stay here or book your activities here.

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The golf experience at Bovey Castle has been adjusted to ensure compliance with government guidance. The full code of conduct is detailed below:

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BOOK, PLEASE EMAIL golf@boveycastle.com

Course Access and Booking

To access the course, a player must:

 Before play

 During your round

 After your round

We will review this new code of conduct on a weekly basis and make any amendments we feel are appropriate to ensure your continued safety.

 

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The best way to unwind this spring is with a refreshing spring staycation on Dartmoor.

Enjoy fabulous sunsets over the rolling Dartmoor hills, long scenic walking routes visiting the quaint South Devon villages and exciting daily activities to get involved with on site at Bovey Castle.

To help you plan your break, we’ve suggested how to discover the best spring staycation in the UK…

Take a hike around Dartmoor National Park

If you’re a nature lover, looking for the great outdoors and some fresh air on your spring staycation, get your walking boots on and discover Dartmoor National Park, we have 275 acres on our doorstep or if that’s not enough we can suggest plenty of scenic strolls around the local villages and beyond.

Explore the nearby village of North Bovey on your walk, with beautiful scenic views of quaint white thatched English cottages and a large village green.

For a more challenging walking route, why not try visiting the nearby Castle Drogo with plenty of walking trails with magnificent views over the Teign Gorge and you can even take your pooch! Castle Drogo was constructed between 1911 and 1930, it was the last castle to be built in England, the rich history of the area can be explored on the many walking routes.

Browse the local, independent shops and boutiques

Venture out to Exeter, a 30 minute drive away from Bovey Castle, you will find the Princesshay centre for chain stores and if you look to visit the Castle Quarter you will find independent shops. Fore Street is a haven for hip and historic shops in West Quarter where you will find treasures including vintage clothing and electric guitars.

If you’d rather not travel, we have a wonderful selection of gifts, toys and children’s games, books and outdoor attire for sale in our boutique store on site at Bovey Castle. You can browse high end and designer brands all stocked in our store with no need to leave the hotel!

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Join in with daily family activities

There’s so much to explore on site at our resort, we have an abundance of activities available daily and suitable for all ages. From deer park tours to horse drawn carriage rides, with so much choice there’s no need to leave the hotel grounds…

If you’re looking for something more hands-on why not try your hand at clay pigeon shooting or archery with one of our experienced activities leaders to guide you through these fun-filled activities.

We have so much more to explore on our resort, play a round of golf on our 18 hole championship golf course, relax in the Elan Spa or discover the many more activities we have to offer.

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Start your spring staycation with Bovey Castle

If you’re ready to explore all that Dartmoor has to offer, why not make the most of your visit with our spring staycation offer?

Our exclusive offer includes one night’s overnight accommodation in a Classic Room, a refreshing glass of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Champagne and dinner in Smith’s Brasserie. After a relaxing night’s sleep, you can also dig into a delicious full English Breakfast.

With prices from £339.00 per room, per night call our team on 01647 445007 or book online.

Choose to extend your stay with us and spend more time exploring with a two night trip and enjoy all of the above plus full afternoon tea with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Champagne.

To book our two night spring staycation offer from £339.00 per room, per night, please call our team on 01647 445007 or book online.

We look forward to welcoming you to Dartmoor on your spring staycation this year.

One of the best ways to discover Dartmoor National Park is on horseback. With magnificent sweeping views; huge skies and wide-open spaces. Dartmoor offers unrivalled opportunities for horse riding and is perfect for seasoned riders seeking an opportunity for adventure.

We’ve put together an exclusive package with Liberty Trails, specialists in tailor-made horse riding holidays on Dartmoor, to offer an exceptional horseback adventure for enthusiastic, confident riders.

The Package:

The Saddles, Spa and Castle Stay is a two day, three-night package which can be taken either Monday to Thursday or Friday to Monday.

It includes luxury accommodation here at Bovey Castle, dining in our brasserie and relaxing and reviving treatments in the Spa, with either three nights’ livery for your own horse or with horses hired through Liberty Trails. Riders ride with English saddles and can tailor their riding days according to their fitness and stamina levels.

You’ll spend the first full day exploring the best Dartmoor has to offer on an exhilarating ride; with an experienced Liberty Trails guide.

The second day offers you the opportunity to indulge your passions with a choice of three unique experiences:

Prices start from £1500 per person based on two sharing a Castle Room for three nights with dinner, bed and breakfast included and also two full days in the saddle. Additional days can also be added.
The price for one person booking to come on their own to enjoy an exclusive two- day ride with just their guide and horse for company, start from £1995 for single occupancy of a Castle Room for three nights with dinner, bed and breakfast included.

Day Rides:

An exclusive day ride for one person booking to come on their own is £500 per day. For two people booking to ride together is £400 per person. (This excludes dinner, bed and breakfast)

You’ll experience the focussed attention of the Liberty Trails team who will make you the centre of their world for the duration of your stay. This means that dates are their most limited resource and so to get your preferred dates into their diary, please email enquiries@liberty-trails.com and or call 01822 851463, or visit www.liberty-trails.com.

Explore more things to do in Dartmoor.

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We all know how expensive foreign holidays can be…and anyway, a staycation is so much fun! Especially with our fun-filled list of the top 10 things to do in Devon for the whole family to enjoy. From enthusiastic adventurers to wildlife explorers and those who just want a relaxing day out – our list gives you plenty of options when visiting this beautiful region.

  1. Explore Exeter Cathedral

    One of the most impressive sights in Devon has to be Exeter’s cathedral. This gothic-style 12th century cathedral is surrounded by medieval statuary with vaulted roofs. There are free guided tours to the cathedral every day, where you can get an insight into its history.

  2. Take the family to Bicton Park Botanical Gardens

    At Bicton Park, you can enjoy over 60 acres of elegantly landscaped gardens, water features, and tropical plants. This park has also lots to offer children with its miniature village, playgrounds, and climbing camp.

  3. Visit Okehampton Castle

    If you love reading murder-mystery books, why not pay a visit to Okehamption Castle, where according to legend, Lady Howard killed all four of her husbands and built a carriage from their bones. This castle is the perfect setting for a crime story and there have even been alleged ghost sightings.

  4. Surf or swim in North Devon’s Saunton Sands Beach

    When you visit Devon, a trip to the impressive Saunton Sands Beach is an absolute must. This pet-friendly beach is frequently visited by families and surfers throughout the year due to its long stretch of water.

  5. Have fun at the Water Park

    Devon’s only aqua park, Wake Park, offers something for everyone from Ringo rides to paddle boarding. As the perfect finale to your day, take a relaxing break at the secret lake whilst enjoying the breath-taking countryside views.

  6. Try your hands on pottery painting

    At the Art Shed studio, you can paint your own pottery and create a unique gift for your loved one. There is a great variety of pottery to paint on from plates, bowls, and starfish to dragons and much more.

  7. Spend a day at the Combe Martin Wildlife Park

    Discover a stunning park set within natural streams and waterfalls at Coombe Martin Wildlife Park. There are many exotic wildlife species and plants to be found including ginkgo trees and the giant redwoods. A visit to this 28-acre woodland should be on top of your things to do in Devon itinerary.

  8. Take part in an ultimate wall-to-wall trampoline climb

    The coolest tourist attraction is located in the market town of Barnstaple. This all-weather trampoline park is the ideal place for young adults to have fun and take part in the exciting wall-to-wall trampoline climb.

  9. Play paintball games in Southdown Woods, Barnstable

    When you visit Devon with your young family, a session of paintball game should not go amiss. Just make sure you all wear your full-face safety goggles!

  10. Rent a bicycle and ride through the Tarka Trail

    A bicycle hiring centre is located next to Barnstaple Railway Station and is the perfect way to explore this beautiful market town and the Tarka Trail. There are over 120 bikes available to satisfy everyone.

Explore more things to do in Devon.

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Eden Hotel Collection is part of Rigby Group (RG) plc.
Bovey Castle Property Limited is a company registered in England and Wales with Company Number 09552863.
Registered office address: c/o Eden Hotel Collection, Bridgeway House, Bridgeway, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6YX
VAT Number: 806641241

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