Business Details
34 Years
experience
Expert Marquee Hire Services in Exeter
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 delivers over 200 events annually, utilising traditional wooden pole marquees and contemporary clearspan structures to accommodate events ranging from intimate celebrations to large-scale festivals. Our approach combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving, enabling us to construct marquees in challenging locations including harbours, hilltops, and over swimming pools.We maintain a fleet of 160+ marquees and operate a dedicated manufacturing and cleaning facility to ensure our structures remain in pristine condition. Our commitment to reliability and client support is demonstrated through our 24/7 assistance and track record of completing over 8,000 events. The company remains family-owned, with three generations actively involved in operations, supported by a team of experienced professionals who bring both technical skill and passion to every project.
Services
Marquee Hire
Wedding Tents
Festival Structures
Corporate Event Spaces
Custom Designs
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- 35 years' experience creating bespoke event spaces across the South West
- Offer both traditional wooden pole marquees and contemporary clearspan structures
- Successfully completed over 8,000 events in challenging locations
- Maintain 24/7 client support and on-site assistance
- Operate dedicated manufacturing and cleaning facilities for equipment maintenance
Services
Wedding Marquees
We create tailored wedding spaces using traditional and contemporary marquee designs. Our expertise accommodates ceremonies and receptions for 15-500 guests, with options for wooden flooring, decorative linings, and custom configurations. With experience at over 3,000 weddings, we offer complete flexibility from basic structures to fully furnished solutions. Our team provides site-specific recommendations and works with trusted suppliers for additional dcor requirements.
Festival Structures
Specialising in temporary venues for festivals and fairs, we deliver marquees for food festivals, music events, and heritage shows. Our portfolio includes 50+ annual events across the South West, with capabilities for both small reception tents and large-scale infrastructure. We work closely with local authorities and event organisers to ensure compliance while maintaining environmental sustainability through efficient resource management and logistics planning.
Corporate Events
We provide premium marquee solutions for corporate functions including conferences, product launches, and award ceremonies. Our experience spans public sector projects and private corporate events, with capacity for 10-1,000 attendees. The service includes site assessment, structural recommendations, and integration with existing buildings, supported by our 24/7 client assistance and comprehensive event delivery options.
Clearspan Marquees
Our contemporary clearspan marquees offer pole-free spaces suitable for any season. These adaptable structures accommodate up to 1,000 guests and can be installed on challenging terrain including slopes and water features. Customisation options include clear roofs for night events, various flooring choices, and decorative linings, making them ideal for both corporate functions and large celebrations.
Traditional Marquees
Featuring wooden poles and canvas construction, our traditional marquees create timeless event spaces. Designed for 15-500 guests, these versatile structures can be configured for seasonal use with detachable walls and multiple flooring options. Their classic aesthetic suits heritage sites and outdoor locations where maintaining visual harmony with surroundings is important.
People
George Lyon-Smith
CEO and Founder
Founded the company in 1992 after purchasing his first marquee for a family wedding. With 30+ years' experience and 3,000+ events completed, he brings technical expertise and personal service to every project. A Devon native, George combines business leadership with hands-on involvement in major events.
Jack Stamp
Director of Operations
Former British Army officer with logistics expertise, joined in 2021. Manages client consultations, site assessments, and supplier coordination for all event types. Provides primary point of contact throughout the planning process while balancing family commitments and outdoor activities.
Tommy Lyon-Smith
Director of Logistics
Third-generation marquee specialist with racing industry experience. Oversees logistics operations and provides on-site management for complex installations. Combines family business knowledge with fresh perspective gained through international racing programmes, ensuring efficient execution of challenging projects.
Sarah Bowden
Office Admin
Key administrative support managing client bookings and operational coordination. Combines event management expertise with organisational skills developed through farming background. Ensures smooth communication between clients and field teams while managing multiple concurrent projects.
Wayne Clarke
Manager
Industry veteran with 20+ years' experience managing large-scale events. Specialises in transforming challenging sites into functional event spaces for public gatherings. Applies practical problem-solving skills to ensure safety compliance and logistical efficiency across diverse locations.
Questions
Do you provide marquee services outside the South West?
While our primary focus is Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset, we consider projects beyond this region based on event scale and logistical feasibility.
Can you accommodate very large events?
Our largest clearspan marquees accommodate up to 1,000 guests, with experience delivering events for thousands through combined structures and phased operations.
What makes your marquees different from competitors?
We offer both traditional wooden pole tents and modern clearspan structures, with 35 years' experience creating bespoke solutions for challenging locations.
Do you offer full event management services?
Yes, we provide complete event delivery including furnishings, logistics, and 24/7 support, or can supply marquees only based on client requirements.
How do you handle adverse weather conditions?
Our structures are engineered to withstand extreme weather, with proven experience completing events during snow storms and gale-force winds.
Can you help with marquee cleaning and maintenance?
We operate a dedicated wash facility for marquee covers and matting, with equipment available for hire through our staff for external cleaning projects.
