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.
Christmas at Dunster
- Published:
- 29 June 2024
Come and soak up the festive atmosphere at Dunster Castle and Watermill this winter. During weekends throughout December you are invited to see the castle’s seasonally decorated rooms, take a stroll through the garden, enjoy a festive treat at the Watermill Tearoom and pick up the perfect gift in the Stables Shop.
A Luttrell family Christmas
See the castle decorated for a country Christmas, inspired by family memories of the festive season at the castle. Wander around the house and enjoy the decorated trees and natural garlands, created from plants from the gardens by Dunster's garden team. You can settle down and play games in the Morning Room, dress up in the Hat Room and spot friendly knitted robins hiding in the rooms.
The castle is open from 10am-3pm at weekends throughout December and daily 16 December - 5 January. Last entry at 2.45pm.
Please note that you do not need to prebook. You can purchase tickets upon arrival from one of our Welcome Points.
Reindeer Service Station
7 December to 23 December
The stables are the Exmoor pit stop for Father Christmas and his reindeer this Christmas Eve. Come and see where the reindeer will be stopping to rest before continuing on the next leg of their journey.
Winter Evenings - Christmas Extended Opening
14, 15, 21 and 22 December
Experience Dunster Castle after hours with an illuminated path leading up to the castle. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, explore the castle and savour a variety of delicious seasonal treats in the Tenants’ Hall. Please note, the last entry to the castle is at 5:45pm.
Festive Storytelling
14, 15, 21, 22 December
Join one of our friendly volunteers as they share cosy Christmas stories in the warmth of Tenants' Hall.
12 Days of Christmas Trail
26 December to 5 January
Blow off the cobwebs and discover Dunster Castle's version of this traditional Christmas song, inspired by what the household were doing between Christmas and New Year.
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.
The watermill is open from 10am-4pm at weekends throughout December and daily 21 December- 5 January. Last entry at 3.30pm.
The garden, parkland and shop
Take a stroll through the beautiful subtropical garden at the South Terrace and Keep or explore the River Garden, where the River Avill flows past giant redwoods, or let off some steam in the natural play area.
Fancy a longer walk? Enjoy the winter views by heading up to Conygar Tower, Bat’s Castle or Grabbist Hill from the car park or explore Dunster village on our gentle circular walk. Don't forget to stop by the Stables Shop and browse a selection of goodies for that all important gift inspiration.
The garden is open from 10am-4pm at weekends throughout December and daily 21 December-5 January. Last entry at 3pm.
The parkland and car park are open daily 10am-5pm and the tearoom and shop are open daily 10am-4pm.
You might also be interested in
Article
Family Fun at Dunster Castle and Watermill
Looking for a fun family day out this spring summer? Whether you're looking to play games, learn something new, or simply get out in the sunshine, there's something for everyone to get involved in.
Article
Things to see and do at Dunster Castle and Watermill
Explore 1,000 years of history at Dunster castle, from its collection of painted leather hangings – the only one of its kind in the UK – to its historic working watermill.
Article
Eating and shopping at Dunster Castle and Watermill
There are several places to enjoy a bite to eat and a drink during your visit to Dunster Castle and Watermill. Find out more about what each outlet has to offer.
Article
History of the garden at Dunster Castle
Dunster Castle’s garden has developed and grown over many centuries. Find out more about those who helped shape it into the garden we see today.
Trail
Dunster Castle and Village circular walk
Enjoy the impressive architecture and houses in the medieval village of Dunster on this walk, which also takes in memorable views of Dunster Castle.
Trail
Conygar Tower from Dunster Castle walk
Enjoy a circular wander through tranquil woodland and discover an impressive folly built by Henry Luttrell to enhance the view from Dunster Castle.
Trail
Bats Castle from Dunster Castle Walk
This longer walk up to Bats Castle, a well-preserved Iron Age hillfort, offers memorable views over the Bristol Channel and across Exmoor as a reward.