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.
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
More events will be added to this page as information/booking becomes available, so be sure to revisit for updates.
Please note that you do not need to book for general admission to the House and Garden.
Father Christmas
Father Christmas will be coming to Dunster Castle and Watermill. More details and booking information will be released soon.
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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