1 Night, 2 Rounds
- 1 Night Dinner, Bed and Breakfast at Bovey Castle
- 2 Rounds at Bovey Castle
1 Night, 2 Rounds
Opened in 1926, Bovey Castle's course has long been one of the South West's standout inland tests. Set in the parkland of Dartmoor National Park, it was originally conceived by J.F. Abercrombie as a sister layout to Gleneagles and Turnberry, then later refined by Donald Steel and Tom Mackenzie.
What makes it memorable is how it sits on the land. You'll play across rolling estate terrain framed by mature woodland, with elevated tee shots and greens that ask you to think your way round. It's not a place for mindless driver swings either, the best scorecards come from keeping it in position, trusting your yardages and respecting the slopes on the putting surfaces.
The routing takes full advantage of the natural contours, with strategic bunkering that punishes wayward shots and rewards those who pick their way round with patience rather than raw power. From the back tees it's a proper challenge for single-figure players, but it remains enjoyable for mixed-ability groups if you choose the right set of tees.
The course is walkable for those who prefer it, though buggies are available, and the practice facilities give you a decent chance to loosen up before heading out. Dartmoor's there on the horizon for most of the round, which adds to the sense of occasion without ever feeling showy.
Who is this for?
Golfers seeking a quality inland parkland course within a luxury country house setting, particularly those combining golf with spa breaks, family stays or a broader Devon escape.
Who is it best for?
Mid-handicap golfers and couples looking for a refined, heritage-rich golf break with excellent dining and leisure facilities, all set within the tranquillity of Dartmoor National Park.
* Where applicable, the relevant promotions will be applied during the booking process. T&Cs may apply.
1 Night, 2 Rounds
2 Nights, 2 Rounds
2 Nights, 3 Rounds
3 Nights, 3 Rounds
Although it has always been a course of considerable repute, Bovey Castle has greatly benefited from recent investment to improve both its condition and appearance; the drainage and irrigation systems have been completely overhauled, new tee boxes added and many of the bunkers and greens have been reworked.
The resultant 6,303 yard championship layout befits the grandeur of the estate, and is a real gem of a course. Against the backdrop of the Bovey and Bowden rivers, which golfers must negotiate frequently, Bovey Castle has been restored to its former glory and is among England's most luxurious destinations for a golf break.
Golfing legend Sir Henry Cotton has described Bovey Castle's 7th hole as "possibly the best par-4 in British inland golf.”
A stay at Bovey Castle delivers a unique experience of true British luxury within the setting of Devon's ancient moorlands. From the tailored tweed plus-two trousers worn by the hotel concierge to the apples and sloes gathered from the grounds to make traditional cider and gin, Bovey Castle draws its contemporary appeal from the manor house's rich heritage as a private home and 275-acre country estate.
The property is a throwback to the grandiose extravagance of the 1920s, with the charm and opulence of that era retained through striking period furnishings and decoration. Accommodation is divided into 60 bedrooms in the original manor house and mews building, with 22 three-storey granite lodges hidden within the estate for couples and families seeking additional privacy. The lodges offer self-contained space ideal for groups or families, whilst the manor house rooms deliver classic country house elegance with modern comfort.
The Elan Spa at Bovey Castle is a sanctuary tucked away from the bustle of modern life. Echoing the tranquillity and therapeutic flow of the River Bovey, bespoke spa experiences using ESPA products have been created to relax, revive and restore the body and spirit. A dedicated team of therapists are on hand with a wealth of knowledge and experience, encouraging a respect and understanding of the body that is both rare and valuable. Housed in the Orangery, the hotel's Art Deco inspired swimming pool overlooks the sun terrace and the River Bovey, offering sweeping views across Dartmoor. The spa facilities also include a Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, whilst the hotel gym is stocked with a full range of Precor cardio kit and a solid range of strength equipment.
The dining line-up matches the country house setting. The Great Western is the flagship option for a smarter evening, with a supplement on some packages, whilst Smith's Brasserie keeps things relaxed with well-executed British favourites. If you fancy a slower pace, the Adam Room is ideal for a quiet drink post-round and a proper reset before dinner. Whether planning to participate in one or two of the hotel's impressive guest activities or retreat to the tranquillity of the Adam Room's plush armchairs, the style and selection found in each of the hotel's restaurants and dining areas cater for all tastes.
If you want a Devon break that nails the mix of proper golf, standout service and a spa you'll actually use, Bovey Castle ticks the box. It's an easy choice for couples, small groups and anyone looking to pair a competitive round with a genuinely special country house stay.
Michael
✓16 Sep 2026
Really enjoyed our stay
Paul
✓10 Oct 2023
Another lovely trip. Room upgrade, very comfortable and spacious. Great setting with very efficient staff. Addition of The Great Western restaurant is fantastic. Quality of the food is exceptional although not without a price tag.
Steven
✓29 Jun 2023
unique country hotel not cheap but you get what you pay for
Julian
✓18 Oct 2022
Excellent. Lovely staff. Good food
David
✓10 Oct 2022
Paul
✓10 Aug 2022
Room upgrade, very spacious and comfortable with all the amenities you could ask for.
Dave
✓22 Jun 2022
Good hotel but at a premium price, there are other options........ however none quite at this location if you need to be in area. Just bring a big wallet!
Tammy
✓31 May 2022
Excellent venue, will be visiting again
Christopher
✓25 Oct 2021
Superb, Staff were very helpful and welcoming. Hotel is spotless. Rooms were great, beds very comfortable, if two male friends are sharing a twin room the beds are wide enough that you hardly notice you are sharing.
Neil
✓10 Oct 2021
Our upgraded Castle room was two single beds pushed together, making a double. We had to push them apart. The leisure club had no hot tub or jacuzzi. Apart from this, the hotel was outstanding. The food in Smith's Brasserie was out of this world. I would recommend this hotel 100 per cent. Parking was great, views amazing - it's simply perfect for a golfing getaway.
Michael
✓16 Sep 2026
Really enjoyed the golf
Paul
✓10 Oct 2023
2 very enjoyable rounds. Pro shop were very flexible and switched us to earlier tee times at our request. Nothing too much trouble.
Steven
✓29 Jun 2023
front 9 quite tight with small stream zig zagging the fairways more room on back 9 fast undulating greens overall a fairly short but challenging course
Julian
✓18 Oct 2022
Lovely setting. Helpful staff. Fairways and tees could have done with more work
David
✓10 Oct 2022
Difficulty in between hard & average
Dave
✓22 Jun 2022
Actually better than expected for a "hotel course". Very quiet. Picturesque. Overall a pleasant course.
Tammy
✓31 May 2022
Best course I’ve ever been to by far
Christopher
✓25 Oct 2021
Considering the heavy rain we had on the night before our stay and overnight during our stay I was surprised we were able to play on both days. The lower part of the course, beside the river Bovey was a bit wet but playable. The back nine was great on both days. Greens were quick with a variety of undulations, some tough, some easy to read. Looking forward to going back in the summer.
Mike
✓10 Oct 2021
Nice course,greens excellent and helpful pro shop staff.
Neil
✓10 Oct 2021
This course is never going to host a Ryder Cup but it is ideal for holiday golf. A couple of the holes are Mickey Mouse but it's great fun. It was in tip-top condition and nothing was too much trouble for the professional and his staff. We are average golfers and this place offered everything we wanted. We will return, no question.