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Festival of Archaeology at Dunster Castle

Join us as we delve deeper into the castle's 1000 year story.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Ground penetrating radar - 20 & 21 July

Watch on as our archaeology team conduct a Ground Penetrating Radar survey of the Keep Garden. Building on last years survey of Green Court, will we find evidence of the original Norman castle?

See last years find on display!

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

There is steep and uneven terrain across the site. A courtesy vehicle is available which can take visitors from the Visitor Reception and Ticket Office to the castle. We have two trampers available to hire. Please call the Main Office on 01643 821314 to book.

Meeting point

Pick up the spotter trail from the Visitor Reception Building. The ground penetrating radar will be on The Keep Garden but there will be chalkboard information around the site.

Suitability for children

Children welcome

What to bring and wear

Please dress for the weather and wear sensible footwear (strictly no stilettos)

Contact info

Dunster Castle and Watermill

Upcoming events

Gilded Treasures Exhibition: 50 Years of the National Trust at Dunster Castle 

Celebrate a golden milestone with us through this special exhibition.

Event summary

on
27 Jun to 2 Nov 2026
at 10:00 to 15:45+ 128 other dates or times

Family Trail: Motte & Bailey Investigate the Viking Raid on Watchet Mint 

Motte & Bailey are back! Step back in time on their latest time‑travel adventure and help them recover the precious Saxon silver coins from the Viking raiders. Complete the trail and earn a collectable badge!

Event summary

on
27 Jun to 12 Jul 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 15 other dates or times

Mediterranean Marvels 

Discover Dunster’s Mediterranean Marvels this June, with a vibrant trail of sub‑tropical planting and spectacular summer colour.

Event summary

on
27 Jun to 30 Jun 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 3 other dates or times

Victorian Kitchen Tours (weekends) 

Where meals were made, stories were shared and servants kept the castle running. Head to the once state-of-the-art Victorian Kitchen with one of our knowledgeable tour guides and discover the heart of Victorian life at Dunster Castle.

Event summary

on
27 Jun to 31 Oct 2026
at 11:00 to 12:00+ 37 other dates or times