Bovey Castle

Beautiful grounds and good size rooms, parking a little bit crowded but we arrived as a busy time of the year. My only note was this is a very old building so be prepared for creak floor boards as you walk around. Apart from that staff were excellent and professional eating for breakfast and evening meal was all acceptable. The dining area we used one night was slightly slow on drinks service, the staff seemed very young an inexperienced so will excuse that as we all have been there! Overall recommend this place if you prefer an older historical experience over a modern hotel. I wouldn't rate this higher than 4 star.

It was a Bovey Castle Day. Through great gates and a drive worth travelling. On the frosty moor was a most stately home. What was old is a new agent of luxury. Wondrous house straight out of a West County Legend. But the welcome was warm as the roaring fire. Lavinia at the desk was profusely professional and polite. A private canine dinner with heaps of Oksana charm. And a sauntering waggie waltz at Jane's piano. The hospitality the most luxurious part. Five stars from four paws.

Bovey Castle is undeniably impressive in terms of location and presentation. Unfortunately, our experience revealed serious issues with transparency, internal consistency, and how guest concerns are handled. At check-in, we specifically asked what was included in our accommodation and were left with the clear impression that spa access and treatments were included. When we later booked treatments directly with the spa, this was contradicted. At the point of booking, no written confirmation was provided, and no cancellation charges or non-refundable terms were clearly explained verbally or in writing. Due to an unforeseen family emergency, we were required to leave early the following morning. Despite not receiving any treatments, we were charged. Although the charge was later refunded, this only occurred after prolonged correspondence during which the hotel’s explanations changed — from initial apologies for confusion to later denials of any error, while continuing to describe the refund as a “gesture of goodwill”. The issue was not the refund itself, but the manner in which the situation was handled: reliance on unclear or buried terms rather than clear disclosure at the point of booking, inconsistent accounts between departments, and a defensive approach once the matter was raised. For a hotel that markets itself as a luxury, guest-focused destination, this lack of transparency and accountability was disappointing. My advice to future guests is simple: do not assume clarity — obtain explicit, written confirmation of spa pricing and cancellation terms before booking.

We live locally but have never visited Bovey Castle before last weekend. Why, I asked myself, as we spent the most wonderful afternoon, evening and morning with dear friends at this very special place. The grandeur of the rooms, each with individually decorated stunningly large Christmas trees, the cleanliness and expanse of the rooms and the added touches of dog bowls, dog bed and treats were all exceptional. The food in the brasserie was decidedly lovely as was the service. The gorgeous lounges with real log fire and sumptuous chairs and sofas made you feel so at home. Sadly we did not get time to experience the Spa, that’s for another day but we did witness a very special falconry experience with the most stunning hawk and its falconer, another added bonus to such a delightful weekend. Many thanks to Bovey Castle staff and this impressive location. We will most certainly be returning and very soon.

Another visit to our favourite place, this time to indulge in Christmas cheer. Although at a very busy time, the staff were all so lovely & cheerful, making everyone feel at home. The food in the Brasserie and The Great Western was very good as always and the staff always on hand to replenish and check. Our room was warm, elegant and welcoming, ( checked on twice a day ) with those breathtaking views across the valley towards Easdon Tor. And all this wrapped in the architectural elegance of bygone days! We’re already planning our next escape…