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Christmas at Dunster

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

Come and soak up the festive atmosphere at Dunster Castle and gardens this winter. During weekends throughout December you were 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.

Parkland, tearoom and shop

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. Afterwards, treat yourself to a festive spiced apple juice, mulled wine and seasonal cakes in the Watermill Tearoom. You'll also find some inspiring gift ideas in the Stables Shop.

The parkland and car park are open daily 10am-5pm and the tearoom and shop are open daily 10am-4pm.

The castle

See the castle decorated for a family Christmas, just as the Luttrells once did when they were in residence. Wander round 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 spot friendly knitted robins hiding in the rooms.

The castle is open from 10am-4pm at weekends throughout December and daily 16 December-1 January. Last entry at 2.45pm.

The watermill

You can still see the working watermill over the festive season and discover how flour is milled. Why not treat yourself or buy an unusual Christmas gift for the home baker in your life? Pick up Dunster Watermill flour, porridge or even a bag of seasonal muesli (while stocks last).

The watermill is open from 10am-4pm at weekends throughout December and daily 16 December-1 January. Last entry at 3.30pm.

A family of two adults and two small children (with their backs to the camera) in winter clothing walking along a path flanked by an array of plants and trees with brown and green foliage
Exploring the Dunster Castle gardens during winter | © National Trust Images/John Millar

The garden

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.

The garden is open from 10am-4pm at weekends throughout December and daily 16 December-1 January. Last entry at 3pm.

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.

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