Skip to content
Skip to content

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.

  • Booking essential

Join Us for an Exclusive Experience Day at Dunster Castle!

Step behind the scenes and spend the day with our Collections and House Manager. Discover fascinating stories, explore hidden treasures, and gain unique insights into the care and history of Dunster Castle.

This is a rare opportunity you won’t want to miss-spaces are limited, so secure your spot today!

Start your experience with refreshments and an introductory talk by Lydia Rys, our Collections and House Manager.

Next, enjoy a bespoke tour of the castle, including exclusive access to areas normally closed to the public. This is your chance to dive deeper into the castle’s rich history, remarkable objects, and the intriguing characters who once lived here.

After the tour, relax at the Watermill Tearoom with a delicious two-course lunch, accompanied by Lydia, who will be on hand to chat and answer your questions.

In the afternoon, return to the castle for a hands-on conservation workshop. Learn about the techniques used to care for the collection and even try your hand at cleaning historic objects yourself.

Finally, round off your day with a visit to the Stables Shop, where you can browse for souvenirs and local products before heading home.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket category
All £65.00

The basics

Booking number

Call 0344 249 1895

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.

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.

Suitability for children

The tours are recommended for ages 13 and over.

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.

Other

Once you have completed your booking, our team will be in touch with the lunch menu and will ask for your choices.

Contact info

Dunster Castle and Watermill

Upcoming events

Discover a Hidden Masterpiece: The Gilt Leather Hangings at Dunster Castle 

Following new research, our remarkable gilt leather hangings are taking centre stage in a refreshed display exploring the story of Antony and Cleopatra, the craftsmanship behind the leathers and their place in art and culture through the centuries.

Event summary

on
15 Nov 2026 to 28 Feb 2027
at 10:00 to 14:15+ 30 other dates or times

Christmas Wreath Making Workshop 

Feeling crafty? Join Forest Catkins in Tenants' Hall and make a Christmas decoration for your home.

Event summary

on
26 Nov to 28 Nov 2026
at 10:00 to 13:00+ 1 other date or time

Meet Father Christmas at Dunster Castle 

Share your Christmas wishes with Father Christmas before he heads off on his trip around the world.

Event summary

on
12 Dec to 22 Dec 2026
at 11:00 to 11:10+ 197 other dates or times

Indoor Theatre: 'A Christmas Carol', one-man performance by Toby Burchell 

Join us in the Inner Hall this festive season for a captivating one‑man performance of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic, A Christmas Carol.

Event summary

on
15 Dec 2026
at 19:00 to 21:00