Dunster Castle Experience Days - A Morning with the Head Gardener
An exclusive chance to spend the morning with Dunster Castle's Head Gardener, including a bespoke tour, and afternoon tea at the Watermill Tearoom.
- Booking essential
Spend the morning with Dunster Castle's Head Gardener, James Cordingley. Responsible for the care and vision of Dunster’s 18 acres of historic and subtropical gardens, James brings more than 18 years of horticultural experience- this special event is your chance to explore the gardens with the person who knows them best.
The morning begins with refreshments and an introductory talk, where James will share insights into the castle’s rich horticultural history, its unusual microclimate, and the challenges and joys of caring for such a diverse landscape. You’ll then set out on an exclusive guided tour, including access to areas of the garden not normally open to visitors. This is a rare opportunity to delve deeper into Dunster Castle’s remarkable plant collections, long-standing garden design principles, and the unique subtropical environment that shapes them.
Once the tour is over, you'll head down to the Watermill Tearoom for a delicious Afternoon Tea. James will accompany you and will be on hand to chat and answer questions in a relaxed and friendly setting.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| All | £45.00 |
The basics
- Booking details
Call 0344 249 1895 Online booking essential.
- Suitability
The tours are recommended for ages 13 and over.
- Meeting point
Please park in the Dunster Castle car park then make your way to Visitor Reception, where a member of staff will greet you before escorting you to the castle to begin your day.
- What to bring and wear
Please wear sensible, flat shoes and come well wrapped up. There is some outdoor walking involved so we recommend bringing waterproof clothing just in case.
- Accessibility
There is a steep hill leading up to the castle. Changes of levels, steep and uneven steps and confined spaces within the tour route.
- Other
Once you have completed your booking, our team will be in touch with the menu and will ask for your choices.
Upcoming events
Gilded Treasures Exhibition: 50 Years of the National Trust at Dunster Castle
Celebrate a golden milestone with us through this special exhibition.
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!
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.
Sword-Fighting Knights
Step back in time and watch sword-fighting knights battle it out at Dunster Castle.