Five-star Dartmoor resort invites guests to judge chefs in movie-themed culinary battle

A five-star Dartmoor resort is inviting members of the public to channel their inner food critic as five top chefs, including a MasterChef: The Professionals winner, go head-to-head in a culinary competition inspired by iconic films.

Bovey Castle will host Battle of Eden 2026: A Night at the Movies on 28 February 2026, bringing together head chefs from across The Eden Hotel Collection. Each chef will present a dish inspired by a famous movie, with guests tasked with tasting and voting for their favourite creation.

Taking part are Mark Budd from Bovey Castle; Stu Deeley from Mallory Court Hotel and Spa and winner of MasterChef: The Professionals; Tim Jenkins of Brockencote Hall Hotel; Abhijit Dalsalkar from The Greenway Hotel & Spa; and Amith Fernando from The Arden Hotel.

Between them, the chefs have more than 80 years of fine dining experience and will be competing for the public’s vote to be crowned the Battle of Eden champion. On the night, the inspiration behind each dish will be drawn from well-known films, with the identity of the chef behind each plate kept secret until the end.

The event forms part of an exclusive two-night stay for two guests, beginning on 27 February. Alongside the culinary competition, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in movie-inspired experiences, from watching falcons sweep through the air in scenes reminiscent of The Eagle Has Landed, to teeing off on the resort’s championship golf course in Happy Gilmore style, or relaxing in the Elan Spa with Gatsby-inspired glamour.

Mark Chambers, managing director of Eden Hotel Collection, said: “We have chefs in our ranks who have cooked for the Royal Family, celebrities, and won major competitions, so this is a rare opportunity for foodies to experience a breadth of talent all in one night.

“It’s also the perfect chance to give a loved one the VIP treatment, as not only will they get to judge their food beneath glittering chandeliers, they’ll also be able to sip champagne in our grand Cathedral Room overlooking the rolling Dartmoor hills, and unwind in our Elan Spa.”

Mark Budd, executive head chef at Bovey Castle, added: “It’s a real privilege working in such picturesque surroundings that wouldn’t look out of place in a movie - a point we are reminded of every day when we welcome new guests through our doors, and we’re looking forward to a weekend of lights, cameras and food.”

Further information about the two-night break and booking details can be found at www.boveycastle.com/battle-of-eden-2026-bovey-castle-night-at-the-movies