Locals and holidaymakers are being invited to explore why a five-star Devon hotel has been crowned one of the best in the South West at its annual open day

Bovey Castle, in Dartmoor National Park, is opening its doors to the general public for free on Sunday, September 22nd  between 12 noon and 4pm, for its ‘Bovey Harvest Celebration & Open Day’, where visitors can check out the venue and grounds where famous names such as Olympian Tom Daley have tied the knot.

It comes as the resort recently won the gold award for Large Hotel of the Year in the South West Tourism Excellence Awards, while also claiming gold in the Large Hotel category at the Devon Tourism Awards.

As well as receiving complimentary guided tours of the 60-bedroom manor house, elan spa and the new kitchen garden, there will be live music and various activities that guests can try out for free on the day – including archery, falconry, ferret racing and kids’ crafting, as well as exploring the wildflower meadow and driving range.

Other activities including laser clay shooting and Land Rover 4x4 tours are available for a small fee.

BBQ food, coffee, cake, and ice-cream is also available to buy, as is the opportunity to dine in the venue’s award-winning 1AA Rosette Smith’s Brasserie.

Dean Gunston is the General Manager at Bovey Castle, and is hoping to emulate last year’s open day attendance when hundreds of people turned out to explore the picturesque hotel and grounds, which includes an 18-hole Championship golf course and 22 self-catering country lodges.

Dean said: “This is a great opportunity for locals and holidaymakers to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the fascinating history and prestige of our venue – not to mention the scenic backdrop of Dartmoor itself.

“Last year’s open day proved so popular that we have decided to bring it back for this year so that couples and families have the chance to capture memories on a special day out in the countryside – whether that is trying your arm at archery, watching mesmerising falconry and exploring the hotel and grounds - or even meeting the world’s oldest ferret, Suki, who resides with us!”

Those wishing to attend are advised to pre-book by calling 01647 445007 or registering via this link.

For more information about Bovey Castle and its open day visitwww.boveycastle.com