Business Details
34 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Bespoke Marquee Solutions for Weddings & Corporate Events
Established in 1992, The Devon Marquee has built a reputation as the South West's original marquee firm. With over 35 years of experience, we specialise in creating bespoke event spaces for weddings, festivals, corporate events, and public gatherings across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset. Our team of experts, led by George Lyon-Smith, Jack Stamp, and Tommy Lyon-Smith, has constructed over 8,000 events, ranging from intimate celebrations to large-scale festivals. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to challenging environments, having built marquees on hilltops, harbours, and even over swimming pools. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our in-house manufacturing and maintenance services, including a state-of-the-art wash facility for marquee covers.We offer both standalone marquee installations and comprehensive event management solutions, supported by a network of trusted suppliers. Our approach combines traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, ensuring each structure meets exacting standards of safety and aesthetics. With a proven track record in delivering complex projects under demanding conditions, we provide 24/7 client support throughout the event lifecycle. Our dedication to sustainability and community engagement further distinguishes us in the industry.
Services
Wedding Marquees
Festival Structures
Corporate Event Tents
Marquee Manufacturing
Event Furnishings
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years' experience in marquee construction across challenging environments
- Our team has built marquees in unique locations including harbours, hilltops, and stadiums
- We operate a state-of-the-art marquee washing and manufacturing facility
- Our 24/7 support team assists clients throughout the entire event lifecycle
- We've completed over 8,000 events including international governmental summits and Royal visits
What people say
Absolute reliability
Love a challenge
Great spaces
35 years experience
24/7 assistance
Services
Wedding Marquees
We create bespoke wedding venues across the South West, having worked with over 3,000 couples. Our traditional canvas and contemporary clearspan marquees accommodate 15-1,000 guests, with custom configurations for unique settings. Our experienced team provides full support from planning to execution.
Festival Structures
Specialists in large-scale festival infrastructure, we construct over 50 annual events including food festivals and music concerts. Our adaptable marquees suit various terrains, with sustainable practices integrated into all projects. We offer dedicated site management throughout event cycles.
Corporate Event Tents
We deliver premium event spaces for corporate functions, from product launches to conferences. Our portfolio includes work with NHS, educational institutions, and private sector clients. We provide both temporary structures and long-term facility solutions.
Marquee Manufacturing
Our in-house manufacturing facility creates custom covers and linings for all marquee types. With 30 years' expertise, our specialist Vince produces bespoke solutions from bell tents to large-scale structures, using traditional and modern materials.
Event Furnishings
We supply comprehensive interior solutions including flooring, lighting, and furniture. Our inventory features rustic pine tables and decorative elements, complemented by partnerships with specialist suppliers for complete event styling requirements.
People
George Lyon-Smith
CEO and Founder
Founded the company in 1992 after his sister's wedding. With 30+ years' experience, he has built 3,000+ events across the South West. Known for his encyclopedic knowledge and client relationships.
Jack Stamp
Director of Operations
Former British Army officer with logistics expertise. Joined in 2021, managing client relations and event coordination. Oversees compliance and supplier partnerships for all projects.
Tommy Lyon-Smith
Director of Logistics
Joined the family business in 2024 after racing career. Manages on-site operations and logistics. Provides ground-level coordination for complex event setups across diverse locations.
Sarah Bowden
Office Admin
Key administrative support handling client bookings and event coordination. Combines organisational expertise with attention to detail, ensuring smooth operations between teams.
Wayne Clarke
Manager
20+ year industry veteran specialising in large-scale events. Manages shows and fairs across the South West, combining practical experience with problem-solving skills for complex site preparations.
Questions
What areas do you cover for marquee installations?
We operate across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset, with experience in diverse locations from coastal harbours to urban centres.
Can you build marquees in challenging locations?
Yes, we specialise in complex sites including slopes, water features, and heritage locations, having completed 8,000+ events in varied environments.
Do you offer complete event management services?
We provide both standalone marquee installations and full event management solutions with 24/7 support throughout the event lifecycle.
What types of marquees do you offer?
We have traditional canvas marquees, contemporary clearspan structures, and oriental-style tents, accommodating events from 10 to 10,000 guests.
How do you ensure marquee quality and maintenance?
Our dedicated manufacturing facility maintains all structures, featuring automated cleaning systems and specialist cover production for optimal condition.
Can you accommodate special event requirements?
Our bespoke approach allows custom modifications including unique linings, flooring options, and structural adaptations to meet specific client needs.
