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

From 13 to 21 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 7:15pm, with the grounds closing at 8pm. 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?

Live Music

Enjoy free live music performed in the castle halls!

Saturday 20th December- West Somerset Brass Band, from 4pm

Sunday 21st December- The Hummingbirds, from 4pm

Monday 22nd December - Pipe Dreams 12-1pm, Nicole & James (Flute & Piano) 1pm-2pm

Tuesday 23rd December-Sax Collective 12-1pm, James from 1-2pm

Nutcracker Trail

26 December to 4 January

The Nutcracker by E.T.A Hoffman is a tale of imagination, bravery and the magic of Christmas. Discover little scenes from the story as you explore the house and see if you can spot all the wooden Nutcrackers on duty in the rooms.

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.