Dunster Castle Parkland Trail
Uncover the history and key features of the grade II listed parkland, with picturesque views of the castle and wider estate. Expect some uneven terrain and gentle slopes along the route.
Near to
Dunster Castle and WatermillStart point
Dunster Castle Car ParkTrail information
Total stages: 9
Total stages: 9
Start point
Dunster Castle Car Park
Stage 1
Begin near the top of the Dunster Castle car park (by Visitor Reception) and head towards the Picnic Area. The first point will be on your left as you enter the Picnic Area.
Stage 2
Head through the kissing gate in the bottom of the Picnic Area and down into the parkland. Continue walking along where you'll come to a fork in the path. There will be some information about the Lost Garden on your right. Stick left to continue the parkland walk or head right to go to Bat's Castle.
Stage 3
Walk along the path with the river to your right and the castle behind you. When you come to a fork in the path, head right to the Fish Ladder. Once you have explored this area, head out of the trees and continue on the path to the right.
Stage 4
Continue walking and you will pass Loxhole Bridge on your right. You will find yourself near the drive entrance. Take care to cross over the drive. You will enter onto a muddy but well trodden path where you will find the Sheep Pen.
Stage 5
Follow the path along with the perimeter fence and the A39 on your right side. Pass the fallen log on the left side and continue along the path through the undergrowth, taking care to stick to the path. You will then come to Canopy Corner.
Stage 6
Once you have shaded from the sun or hidden from the rain, stick to the path and follow it around to the left, with the big tree in the centre of this area of the parkland to your left. Walk past the gate to Dunster Steep car park on your right side. You want to take a right and head up the slope. Keep in mind that the terrain is uneven underfoot. This path is lined by trees and there will be a fence on your right side. Follow along the path until you come to the Steep.
Stage 7
Once you are finished at the Steep, you will come to a fork in the path. There is a gate to the right to go into the Steep or head straight on to come to Dunster kiln.
Stage 8
Once you have explored the area around the kiln, turn back on yourself and come back to the path. Head right to come to Cannon's RIdge
Stage 9
You are now at Cannon's Ridge with a view of the castle in front of you. Descend down into the car park to complete the trail.
End point
Dunster Castle Car Park
Trail map
A map of Dunster Castle's Grade II listed parkland. | © Crown Copyright and database right 2025 Ordnance Survey
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