National Trust - Dunster Castle and Watermill
National Trust - Dunster Castle and Watermill things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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My wife and I visited Dunster Castle this morning, and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations. The castle's rich history and stunning architecture left me in awe throughout the entire visit. The picturesque location of Dunster Castle adds to its charm. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this castle offers a unique experience for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The castle's proximity to the watermill is a bonus, making it a perfect day trip destination. Upon arriving at the car park, we were greeted quite warmly by two lovely members of the team, which is ironic really as it was close to freezing outside, the poor things... We were told we could take the bus up to the castle entrance instead of the very steep slopes we would encounter, which was most welcome indeed given I've only got one good knee now. Dave the driver must be commended for his excellent knowledge and his exceedingly kind demeanour. When we entered the castle, we were greeted again by knowledgeable and friendly staff who provided fascinating insights into its history. The well-preserved rooms and exhibits showcased the castle's grandeur and allowed me to immerse myself in the lives of its past inhabitants. We especially enjoyed seeing the pianist playing in the entrance hall. The National Trust has done an exceptional job in maintaining and preserving Dunster Castle. The attention to detail and the effort put into restoring its original features is admirable. It truly feels like stepping back in time when you walk through the castle's doors. I highly recommend visiting Dunster Castle to anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're a local such as we are or a tourist, this hidden gem is a definite must-visit. Overall, Dunster Castle left a lasting impression on me. It's a place that I will fondly remember and one that I hope to revisit in the future. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore this majestic castle and immerse yourself in its rich history.
Lord ParkerLord Parker
00
One of my favourite National trust visits so far. Dunster Castle is a beautiful castle set in the some spectacular grounds and surroundings. Upon our arrival we were met by parking attendants and guided towards the camper parking, of which there was plenty of, and indeed generous parking for cars. The visitors center was manned by very polite staff, (Janie was very helpful), and we were soon on our way to the Castle entrance. As members, we entered and parked for free, but the price for admission was reasonable. We chose to book the Kitchen tour at an extra £3 per person and I have to say, it was worth it, especially because of how enthusiastic and informed our guide, (Jane) was. Top marks for her service. As we got to the house, we were met by National trust staff and given a guide about the house. We made our way around the whole building, enjoying each room and its splendour as we did. Many other National trust staff were stationed all over the house, ready and armed with all the information you could need as a visitor. We especially enjoyed some stories of shenanigans at the dinner table in the dining room from a gentleman who remembered the last owners as a kid. Amazing. We also took time to walk around the gardens and visit the Millhouse. Following the river path through the gardens was lovely. Naming trees and fauna as we wandered about. The Mill itself is still working and grinds flour and oats still. In fact, staff were cleaning up after a milling session when we arrived. The assistant Miller was happy to encourage me to try his Apricot spelt cake. A taste sensation might I say. There is so much to see here, we didn't have time to visit the adjoining Dunster village, ( a shame) but we will return again for sure. We made sure to visit the gift shop on our travels, set in the old stables and enjoyed making our way round the historic setting as we shopped. All in all, an utterly fantastic adventure.
Weekend WildnessWeekend Wildness
00
We made it to Castle Dunster in the afternoon after visiting both Killerton and Knightshayes, so we were fairly tired. It was difficult to get to as you had to go through a tight village, and my satnav tried to take me up the pedestrian route. We made it up the hill and said hello to some lovely staff. The castle was stunning and in such a gorgeous location. Really picturesque. We made it into the castle and went room to room, enjoying the really friendly volunteers and the splendid decor. In fact, we enjoyed it so much that we missed a few rooms, and a nice volunteer allowed us back to see the rooms we missed! We really loved it and would have loved to have gone round again, but we were running out of time and energy. We were desperate to see the watermill, so we legged it down there, and despite it only being small, it was beautiful and really interesting. I really liked their interactive watermill donation box, which made me want to donate more and more. It was extraordinary to watch it work and talk with the volunteers there. We walked along the river and over the bridges. We loved the kids' play area, which was good for adults too! We loved the foliage and flowers, and we would have loved to have seen three rest of the gardens, but we were so tired we admitted defeat and vowed to come back another day. The staff and volunteers were really lovely, and I think this was highlighted to us when a baby squirrel was reported that it was alone and scared in the middle of a footpath and this lovely volunteer gentleman scooped it up and vowed to find it a box and look after it which was really sweet. The only thing that was sad about the place was we could get a fridge magnet, but they had run out of pin badges. However, we will definitely be coming back in the future, so I will get it then.
Hamish PattersonHamish Patterson
00
Went to Dunster Castle with Wifey while on holiday, It's a great place to visit, There's so much history here, We went on the kitchen tour, ( chargeable ) of £3 each, This tour isn't always on, but when it is it's definitely worth it to see the history of Dunster Castle below stairs, Been a few times before, and will visit Dunster Castle again when in the area, This time on holiday we visited twice, And used the all terrain scooters that they have for people who have difficulties with walking etc, best to book in advance of your visit, they are available usually 10am to 1pm and 1pm to 4pm , They have a few tea rooms, one near the house and one near the double waterwheel, Also normal and disabled toilets are available, And disabled parking bays for blue badge holders are also available, lots of other parking bays are available, No charge for blue badge holders and National Trust Members, other parking charges apply for cars or campervans, Knowledgeable staff and volunteers, Entry for non national trust members was £17 per adult on our visit, Parking for non national trust members was £6.50 on our visit, They do have a courtesy van that can take you from the car park up to the castle if you find the paths too steep, You can if booked in advance trampers ( like an all terrain mobility scooter) to get about on site, There are certain paths and areas that you are unable to go with them, but definitely worth using them if you struggle with mobility at all, Definitely recommend a visit
roderick cutlerroderick cutler
00
Upper car park tends to fill quite quickly in the morning but patrons with reduced mobility can ask to get a space near the ticket office rather than have to walk all the way from the lower car park. Similarly the National Trust have a request shuttle that can take visitors up to the Castle from the ticket office. There is a nice walk through the arboretum and over Lover's Bridge to the Watermill to the left of the Castle hill which takes you to the National Trust tearoom. If you want you can extend this to the Gallox Bridge further up the valley. Once you get up to the Castle level there is a second, less busy tearoom in the Gatehouse. Inside the castle it's generally a one way route. The formal dining room and the quirky kitchen were my favourites. As with any National Trust property talking to the guides is always a good idea and we were lucky to have spoken to a friendly and knowledgeable volunteer in the library. She was able to point out the portraits of the previous owners and explain the family history of the Castle. The Castle closes at 3.45pm and I got the impression that the tearooms closed at the same time. The free shuttle runs down from the Castle entrance back to the ticket office but finishes before the gardens officially close at 4.00pm. If you want to finish your afternoon with a cake or drink then it's best to move the car as gates are locked at 6pm.
I ThomasI Thomas
00
Dunster Castle. A wonderful place to visit. You are met as you drive in & they'll direct you. We needed Disability parking, so we were directed straight there, which is right next to the ticket/information office. We also hired a tramper, so it was very convenient for pick up. Disability parking is free. Otherwise, it's £5.50 all day. Castle admission is £13 for an adult, other tarrifs are available, example, a family ticket, etc. Beautiful woodland gardens. There are a couple if cafes to choose from. Toilets. Metal benches scattered around. There are 5 picnic benches on the grass opposite the ticket office, unfortunately, all in the sun & on a hot day like today when we went, it was uncomfortable to sit there for too long & hot for our dog. People were grabbing the tables as soon as they became available, just so they could have their picnics. They could really do with placing more picnic tables around in shaded areas. There are a few picnic tables just before you get to the Castle in the shade. I personally didn't go into the castle because of my disability. Too many steps & staircases, but my husband went in & thoroughly enjoyed looking around. We will be going there again soon, as we could hire the tramper for 3 hours & we ran out of time to get around everywhere. We really enjoyed our day. Very picturesque place to go.
Jo CooperJo Cooper
00
Nearby Attractions Of National Trust - Dunster Castle and Watermill
Dunster National Park Centre
English Heritage - Yarn Market
Dunster Museum & Doll Collection
St George's Church
Dunster Butter Cross
National Trust - Dunster Working Water Mill
Dunster National Park Centre
4.6
(91)
Click for details
English Heritage - Yarn Market
4.7
(57)
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Dunster Museum & Doll Collection
4.5
(22)
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St George's Church
4.7
(22)
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Nearby Restaurants Of National Trust - Dunster Castle and Watermill
Reeves Restaurant
Locks Victorian Tea Rooms
The Foresters Arms Dunster
Cobblestones Dunster
Castle Coffee House
Born Appetite & Dunster Distillery
Tessa's Tea Shop Dunster
Hathaways
The Tea Shoppe, Dunster
Reeves Restaurant
4.9
(164)
Click for details
Locks Victorian Tea Rooms
4.7
(148)
$$
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The Foresters Arms Dunster
4.5
(159)
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Cobblestones Dunster
4.4
(132)
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
Dunster, Minehead TA24 6NY, United Kingdom
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Phone
+44 1643 821314
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Website
nationaltrust.org.uk
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Reviews
Overview
4.7
(3.3K reviews)$$
Ratings & Description
cultural
outdoor
family friendly
Description
Dunster Castle is a former motte and bailey castle, now a country house, in the village of Dunster, Somerset, England. The castle lies on the top of a steep hill called the Tor, and has been fortified since the late Anglo-Saxon period.
attractions: Dunster National Park Centre, English Heritage - Yarn Market, Dunster Museum & Doll Collection, St George's Church, Dunster Butter Cross, National Trust - Dunster Working Water Mill, restaurants: Reeves Restaurant, Locks Victorian Tea Rooms, The Foresters Arms Dunster, Cobblestones Dunster, Castle Coffee House, Born Appetite & Dunster Distillery, Tessa's Tea Shop Dunster, Hathaways, The Tea Shoppe, Dunster
