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
This Christmas, Dunster Castle and Watermill invites you to step into a country Christmas, inspired by Luttrell family memories of the festive season at the castle. From the Visitor Reception to the castle to the tearooms, the estate will be dressed for a cosy Christmas with a few fun twists. Explore the Servants' Hall, added to the route for Christmas opening, and discover the Reindeer Service Station to see where Father Christmas and his reindeer will be making a pit stop on Christmas Eve.
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, dress up in the Hat Room, spot friendly knitted robins hiding in the rooms and soak up the cosy Christmas feel.
Christmas Events
Father Christmas
Share your Christmas wishes with Father Christmas before he heads off on his trip around the world.
Christmas Needle Felting Workshop
17 November, 10am – 2pm
Join Forest Catkins for a needle felting workshop in the warmth of the Watermill Tearoom. Take away your festive decoration to give to someone special this Christmas or enjoy year after year.
Christmas Wreath Making
2 December | 10am - 2pm
Join Forest Catkins for a festive wreath making workshop in the warmth of Tenants’ Hall. The workshop will demonstrate each step and include a festive bake and a hot drink.
Please note that you do not need to book for general admission to the House and Garden.
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 on 6 and 7 December to see live reindeer as they prepare for their journey around the world.
Nutcracker Trail
26 December to 4 January
Nutcrackers have long been symbols of good luck, so get outdoors and blow off the cobwebs with this family-friendly trail around the garden to welcome the 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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
