Christmas at Dunster

Published:: 02 November 2025

A child running towards a Christmas tree at Dunster Castle in Somerset — Christmas at Dunster Castle, Somerset | © National Trust Images/John Millar

This Christmas, Dunster Castle and Watermill invites you to experience a traditional country Christmas inspired by Luttrell family memories of festive seasons past. From the Visitor Reception, to the Castle, to the tearooms, the estate will be dressed for a cosy celebration with a few delightful surprises. Explore the Servants’ Hall, added to the route for Christmas, and discover the Reindeer Service Station, where Father Christmas and his reindeer make a magical pit stop on their journey around the world. Enjoy live music in the castle halls on 20-23rd December.

Christmas Decorations

The castle will be full of decorations inspired by Luttrell family memories of Christmas at the castle. Wander around the house and enjoy the decorated trees and natural garlands, created from plants from the gardens by the Garden Team. Settle down and play games in the Morning Room, spot friendly knitted robins hiding around the castle and soak up the cosy Christmas feel.

Christmas Events

Dunster Christmas Lights & Late Night Opening

On weekend throughout December and daily from rom 19th to 23rd December, the castle will open after dark for a special illuminated experience. Follow the twinkling path to the castle, which will be beautifully lit against the night sky. Last entry to the Castle is at 6:15pm, with the grounds closing at 7pm. Tenants’ Hall will be open for warming drinks and festive treats for the duration of the evening. Please note- extended opening hours apply to Dunster Castle and Tenants' Hall only. The Watermill, Keep Garden and River Gardens will be closed from 4pm.

Reindeer Service Station

The stalls in the stables will be decorated to welcome Father Christmas' reindeer - presents piled high, a map marked with their route and their favourite treat - seasonal muesli from Dunster's working watermill. Stop by to see where Father Christmas and his reindeer will make a pit stop as they prepare for their journey around the world.

Robin Spotter Trail

Can you find all of the friendly knitted robins hiding throughout the castle? Perfect for little explorers!

Reindeer Spotter Trail

Rudolph and his friends are making mischief around the grounds! Can you find all the reindeer hiding around the gardens?

Wreath Making

Join Forest Catkins in the warmth of Tenant's Hall for a festive wreath-making workshop. 26th November 10am-1pm, 28th November 5pm-8pm. Book tickets here.

Christmas Falconry Displays

Join experienced falconer Jonathan Marshall and his magnificent birds of prey for a series of falconry displays on Green Court. Learn more about these fascinating birds as Jonathan demonstrates their speed, agility and natural hunting behaviours against the backdrop of the historic castle grounds.

Displays will take place at 11.30am and 2pm on 5 and 6 December. Normal admission applies.

Indoor Theatre: 'A Christmas Carol', one-man performance by Toby Burchell

Join us in the Inner Hall this festive season for a captivating one‑man performance of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic, A Christmas Carol.

15th December, 7pm-9pm | Book tickets here

Live Music

Enjoy free live music performed in the castle halls!

Saturday 19th December- West Somerset Brass Band, from 5:30pm

Sunday 20th December- TBC

Monday 21st December - TBC

Tuesday 22nd December-TBC

Meet Father Christmas at Dunster Castle

Selected dates from 12-19th December. See here for details and to book tickets. Booking Essential

Step into the cosy castle where Father Christmas is getting ready for his trip around the world. Settle into the festive atmosphere, share Christmas wishes and receive a gift to take home with you. Your child's ticket includes meeting Father Christmas, and a present.

Admission to Dunster Castle & Gardens is not included in this ticket. If you are not a National Trust member, you will need to purchase an admission ticket for each adult & child in Visitor Reception when you arrive. Admission tickets cannot be booked in advance, and must be purchased on the day.

Please note that pricing for the Father Christmas Experience is £10 per child and time slots are exclusive to the booker. Up to 4 accompanying adults can attend per time slot.

A close up of a robin sat on a wall at Dunster Castle, Somerset in winter — Robin at Dunster Castle, Somerset | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Season's eatings at the watermill and Watermill Tearoom

You can still see the working watermill over the festive season and discover how flour is milled. Why not treat yourself or buy a thoughtful Christmas gift for the home baker in your life? Pick up a bag of Dunster Watermill flour, a Watermill gift pack or even a bag of seasonal muesli (while stocks last). Head around the corner to the Watermill Tearoom for a selection of festive treats including spiced apple juice, mulled wine and seasonal cakes or to try your hand at some Christmas crafts.

Christmas Shopping at Dunster Castle and Watermill

Don't forget to stop by the Stables Shop and browse a selection of goodies from stocking fillers and festive decorations to treats for the table and unique gifts - there's something for everyone.

Exterior view of Dunster Castle and Garden in Somerset

Discover more at Dunster Castle and Watermill

Find out when Dunster Castle and Watermill is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

Plan your visit

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Family Fun at Dunster Castle and Watermill

Looking for a fun family day out this autumn? As the leaves turn golden and the landscape is filled with seasonal colour, Dunster Castle is the perfect place for little explorers and grown-ups alike to enjoy the great outdoors. Crunch through fallen leaves, spot signs of wildlife and discover fascinating stories from the castle's past. With plenty of space to play, explore and enjoy the changing season, there's something to keep the whole family entertained.