Dunster Castle and Watermill

The result of hundreds of years of planning, building and restoration a walk around the gardens at Dunster Castle takes you around the world and through four different microclimates.

The dramatic castle full of history is open daily, 10am-4pm, from Monday 24 August. There will be a one-way route to follow, and visits are limited to ensure social distancing; entry to the castle is not guaranteed on the day you visit. In line with government guidance, you're required to wear a face covering inside. Please bring one with you.

This varied walking route takes in the impressive medieval gatehouse and ruined tower as well as the Castle, with panoramic views over the Bristol Channel, surrounding countryside and the moorland of Exmoor. You will need to book your visit in advance.

Where can our four-legged friends sniff out some treasure (or doggy ice cream) at Dunster Castle?

Whether it’s exploring the River Garden, completing a spotter trail or ticking off some '50 things,' there’s plenty to keep little (and not so little) ones entertained.

Looking for something to do with the family as autumn arrives? There's all sorts to do at places around Somerset, from visiting a natural pier to crunching through fallen leaves in colourful gardens. If you're planning a visit to Barrington Court, Dunster Castle, Lytes Cary Manor, Prior Park Landscape Garden, Montacute or Tyntesfield, you'll need to book ahead.

Our Stables Shop is open Saturday - Wednesday, 10am-4pm. For the safety of staff and visitors we're introducing social distancing measures and changes to payment, which will be via card only. It is through your purchases that we are able to continue looking after Dunster Castle for everyone, for ever.

Looking for the perfect gift or perhaps you're in need of some retail therapy? You can browse our full range via our online shop. Your purchases and support enable us to continue to care for the nature, beauty and history we all miss.

With 1,000 years of history the castle has plenty of great stories to tell. The last family to live here, the Luttrells, moved in in 1376 and out in 1976, and changed a medieval stronghold into a comfortable family home.

Explore the history of the building and follow the milling process as you virtually journey through three floors of traditional machinery while the watermill is closed.

As one of the earliest-surviving stable blocks cared for by the National Trust, the stable interior at Dunster Castle is complete, with original stalls and unusual hanging partitions.

As we gradually and safely open more of the places we care for, there’ll be more opportunities to explore gardens and parklands near you. If you’re a member, you can access all these places free, together with most National Trust car parks. It’s so important for everyone to have fresh air, birdsong, big skies and open spaces to enjoy. Your membership will go towards looking after all of this for generations to come.

For 125 years, people like you have helped us protect some of the UK's best-loved places. Everyone needs nature, beauty and green spaces now more than ever. But our income has dropped sharply due to the coronavirus crisis, and our essential conservation work is at risk. Please give what you can to help us look after these places, so people and nature can thrive.