Dunster Castle and Watermill at Dunster by Candlelight
Visit the castle decorated for Christmas after hours as part of Dunster Village's event Dunster by Candlelight.
- Booking not needed
On Friday 1 and Saturday 2 December, Dunster Castle and Watermill will be open from as part of Dunster Village’s event Dunster by Candlelight. On Friday 1 December the site will be open 5-9pm and from 4-9pm on Saturday 2 December.
The castle will be decorated for a country Christmas with a magical illuminated walk up to the castle and the watermill be be open for milling by candlelight. The Stables Shop will be open and refreshments will be available at Tenants' Hall, the stables and the Watermill Tearoom.
As the castle is currently on our winter opening times, the parkland and car park will close at 2pm on Friday 1 December. On Saturday 2 December the castle, gardens, parkland and car park will close at 2pm. All vehicles without a permit to park at Dunster by Candlelight (issued to traders and villagers) must leave the car park by 2pm. Visitors to Dunster by Candlelight must arrive on the buses arranged for the events (not NT services), more information can be found here www.dunsterbycandlelight.co.uk/buses-and-parking.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| Adult Watermill admission | £4.00 |
| Adult Castle admission | £9.00 |
| Child Watermill admission | £2.00 |
| Child Castle admission | £4.50 |
The basics
- Meeting point
Tickets for the castle available from Castle Hill (up from the high street). Tickets for the Working Watermill available from outside the mill.
- What to bring and wear
Please come well wrapped up and prepared for all weathers. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
- Accessibility
Dunster Castle is situated on a hill and therefore paths can be steep or have steps. The illuminated walk up to the castle is wheel-friendly. There will be a wheelchair accessible courtesy vehicle running during the event. Wheelchair access into the house is limited and visitors in wheelchairs will need to be able to transfer and manage 4 steps in order to access the house.
- Other
Ticket prices for visiting the castle as part of Dunster by Candlelight, including for National Trust members, are £9 per adult and £4.50 per child. A family ticket (2 adults and up to three children) is £22.50 - under 5s are free. Tickets to visit the watermill, including National Trust members are £4 per adult and £2 per child. A family ticket (2 adults and up to three children) is £10 - under 5s are free. Tickets cannot be booked in advance but can be purchased on the day. This event requires an additional charge, both to cover the costs of offering this event outside of normal opening hours, and also to raise funds for the care of Dunster Castle. Dunster Castle and Watermill will be decorated for Christmas and is free to visit for National Trust members during normal opening hours throughout December.
Upcoming events
A Country Christmas at Dunster Castle
We have something for everyone this Christmas inside the castle and in the gardens. Soak up the festive atmosphere and make Dunster Castle a part of your Christmas traditions.
Dunster Experience Days- A Day with the Collections and House Manager
An exclusive chance to spend the day with Dunster Castle's Collections and House Manager, including a bespoke tour, hands-on conservation, and a two-course lunch.
February Half Term Trail
Walter, Julian and Penelope Luttrell are getting restless in the castle so decide to head outside on a winter adventure. What will you find with them? Answer the questions and complete the activities as you explore the gardens.