OM Magazine, Issue 114, July 2018
27th June 2018
Celebrating 20 years of the National Marine Aquarium
3rd July 2018
The Moorland Garden Hotel is located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, a short drive from Plymouth and Tavistock. Nestling in nine acres of picturesque, tranquil and lovingly-tended moorland gardens, you will find the four star countryside hotel, wedding and conference venue. We speak to the General Manager; Andrew Jenkins, to learn a little more about this hidden gem.
Featuring 42 rooms; including 4 luxury suites, the AA rosette awarded Wildflower Restaurant and the Dartmoor Bar- The Moorland Garden Hotel has something for everyone. Given that the 9 acres of grounds are located on the edge of Dartmoor, it is no wonder that it is also a prime location for weddings all year round.
The Moorland Garden Hotel has a rich history, dating back to the early 1930’s. Andrew Jenkins- General Manager; explains that Moorland was purpose built to be a hotel, unlike many at the time that were converted from manor houses and estates. “In the early 30’s the primary choices for a holiday would have been city or coastal, so the Moorland was there to offer something different”.
A popular venue for business conferences, wedding ceremonies or just a locally sourced Sunday Roast, the Moorland Garden Hotel certainly has a lot to offer.
The great kitchen team, led by Head Chef Jake Westlake, provides locally sourced food where possible and prides itself on having attained the coveted rosette mark in 2017. Andrew tells us that the menu is broad, ranging from fine dining to a really good burger and chips! “Our Sunday Lunch is proving very popular and runs from 12pm-2pm every week”.
Moorland Garden Hotel frequently plays host to special events, having just recently been the venue for a Spring Garden Fete by Miss Ivy Events. “It was a great day, and rather surprising actually as the weather was extremely good!” Andrew tells us “usually the immediate thought is to head to the coast when the sun is out – so we were admittedly worried about numbers. It ended up being a fantastic day with just over 700 people through the doors”.
Andrew explains that Moorland Garden Hotel is also a great location for any birthday party, baby shower or social gathering. “Baby showers have certainly taken off in the last few years! It’s a marvellous idea I think. They are usually held in a private room with a gorgeous afternoon tea – but of course we can cater to whatever the guests prefer”.
The lawn at the forefront of the hotel is certainly the perfect space for any Wedding, Summer party or special event. Cared for by Head Gardener Jonathan- it is clear that great pride is taken in the surroundings. The Rose Arbour stands tall, licensed for ceremonies on warmer days- and just behind is the picturesque wildflower meadow.
Andrew has been at Moorland Garden Hotel for 3 years in total- and has seen the hotel go from strength to strength. “When I first came here, it was awfully quiet. We have worked hard to turn it around in the past few years, slowly refurbishing the interior and overall image, to get us to be this busy venue with a happy team that is at the core of everything we do. Social media is important to us, it’s key to let people know what you have to offer. We also notice that a lot of our customers come through word of mouth, which is always a good sign!”
Moorland Garden Hotel pride themselves on being a dog friendly hotel, whether you plan on staying overnight with your furry friend, or just want to pop in for a refreshment after a long stroll on the moors.
“We are an extremely dog friendly hotel. We are on Dartmoor, people bring dogs! We have four dog friendly bedrooms, complete with quality lino flooring, a doggy bowl and dog bed. These rooms are all conveniently located on the ground floor, near any fire exits so you can pop out for that last evening stroll. We offer a special package for dog owners called ‘Paws for a Treat”.
A popular choice for business people, The Moorland Hotel is in a stunning rural location with easy access to the A38.
Catering for groups of up to 170, Moorland offers 5 meeting rooms with free WiFi and free parking. “We have all the technology available to help your meeting or seminars run smoothly- and we are also on hand with a friendly service to provide refreshments and lunches”.
Moving on to the bedrooms at Moorland, there are Garden Rooms and luxury and premier suites that offer a touch of traditional luxury to your stay and all rooms are kept beautifully clean by the dedicated housekeeping team.
The sumptuous executive ‘Forget Me Not’ suite is tastefully decorated in a gentle pale blue and white décor. Sink into soft cushions and enjoy the views from your very own balcony.
The suite features a four poster bed, a Tassimo coffee machine, and a modern en suite bathroom with separate shower and bath. Its spacious feel makes it a great choice for honeymooning or special occasions.
Andrew explains that they can provide a number of additional extras to make your stay with them extra special. Whether you are on a couples retreat, a hen party or a family break from the hustle and bustle, these little touches really can make all the difference and can be arranged through the super helpful Reception team. From roses, to chocolates and a bottle of champagne- Moorland can also provide tickets to local attractions such as The Garden House, a gorgeous charity run Garden and Tea Rooms a short drive from the grounds.
The Moorland Garden Hotel is the perfect, romantic setting for your wedding, reception or vow renewal. “We have four licensed spaces for civil ceremonies and our outdoor Rose Arbour is also licensed for ceremonies. We can cater for between 2 and 160 guests and as a venue we welcome same-sex weddings”.
The Crystal Room, which is The Moorland’s main location for indoor weddings- is like being transported back in time. The walls are adorned with huge, embellished golden mirrors and crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling. Rich curtains hide a raised stage- and Andrew tells us this dates back from when they had a resident band performing. Overlooking the grounds and the Wildflower Meadow- it’s no wonder so many people choose to say ‘I do’ here.
“We are taking bookings now for 2020 and 2021- and we’ve had some 2022 enquiries which is really exciting. We do have some availability for next summer, but it is booking up very quickly”. Andrew tells us that Laura and Karen are ready to listen to a couple’s requirements and help them to build the Wedding that is right for them, they have a great deal of experience with weddings and helping couples to navigate the sometimes choppy waters of planning a wedding.
So, whether you pop in with your pooch for a warm drink after a stroll, plan on getting married here and everything in between- The Moorland Garden Hotel truly is a hidden gem that is worth discovering.
