Step inside Bovey Castle, named by Harper’s Bazaar as ‘the best luxury hotel in Devon’

Feel like a lord or lady of the manor when you stay at Bovey Castle, a spectacular country estate that was recently named by Harper’s Bazaar as one of the ‘best luxury hotels in Devon’.

Over one hundred years old, the imposing castle was originally built as a country retreat for Viscount Hambledon, a decorated World War I soldier who was heir to the WH Smith stationery fortune.

Bovey Castle’s location in Dartmoor National Park won’t fail to impress, with towering tors (rock formations) and gushing waterfalls hidden in its rolling hills. The hotel grounds extend across 275 acres, where falcons fly and deer roam, so nature lovers can get out on foot to explore. For those who would prefer to cycle around the grounds, bikes can be hired from reception.

Whether you want to stay active or just relax and unwind, it’s all on offer at Bovey Castle. Try traditional pursuits such as archery and clay-pigeon shooting, which are popular among the British elite, or fly-fish for wild brown trout and salmon in the burbling waterways of Dartmoor.

Hop into a Land Rover Defender for a rollicking off-road adventure or stroll down to the croquet lawn to test your skills at one of Queen Elizabeth’s favorite sports, a passion she shared with Prince Philip.

Sports enthusiasts will love the 18-hole championship course designed by world-class golf course architect, JF Abercromby, who also designed Gleneagles in Scotland. You can also get some tips on your tee shot from the PGA pros in residence at the best luxury hotel in Devon.

Inside the hotel, take a swim in the indoor heated or unwind with an aromatherapy session in the spa. Gents can enjoy a clean shave in the Gentleman’s Quarter, where only the best Truefitt and Hill products are used.

The dining is delicious at this historic venue. Both of the hotel’s restaurants, Smith’s Brasserie and the Great Western Grill, have received rosettes from The AA for their inspired dishes.

At Smith’s Brasserie, you can enjoy small plates, sharing boards and mains such as seared stone bass with a chorizo and cannellini bean stew. There’s a glorious view of the River Bovey from the terrace, too, as you savor lunch on a sunny day.

Step into the Great Western Grill where the Art Deco décor echoes a bygone era and quality local ingredients are presented with flair. The chef uses the best of what is in season, from hand-dived scallops to whole roast young grouse.

The Tasting Room promises a truly exclusive event with seven courses of inventive dishes specially prepared by Executive Head Chef, Mark Budd. Select the accompanying wine flight recommended by the sommelier for the perfect bouquet per course.

For day trips, a homemade picnic can be prepared by the hotel’s award-winning kitchen, chock full of delectable bites such as half a lobster with saffron mayonnaise, sliced roast beef from South Devon, smoked duck breast and selected English cheeses.

You’d be forgiven for spending all your time at Bovey Castle while on your premium guided tour, but Devon has some extraordinary sights beyond the hotel.

Discover the dark past of Dartmoor Prison, where American prisoners of war found themselves in the 1800s and hear the stories of mutiny within its walls.

Wander the pretty port city of Plymouth with its notable maritime history, narrow cobbled streets and the oldest gin distillery in the country.
Gasp in awe at the breathtaking Jurassic coast, which starts in Devon, with its miles of staggering cliffs. Alternatively, choose the golden-hued Woolacombe beach, widely known as one of the best in the U.K.

Insight Vacations guests spend two nights at this neo-Elizabethan property on the Country Roads of Wales, Devon & Cornwall guided tour.