A Country Christmas at Dunster Castle
Soak up the festive atmosphere and make Dunster Castle a part of your Christmas traditions.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Step into a cosy, castle Christmas inspired by Luttrell family memories of the festive season. Admire beautifully decorated trees and natural garlands made by the Garden Team with foliage from the garden and keep an eye out for knitted robins hidden around the castle for you to spot.
Visit the working watermill to see traditional flour milling in action and pick up seasonal treats like Dunster flour, porridge, or muesli (while stocks last).
Don’t miss the Reindeer Service Station in the stables where Father Christmas' reindeer will make a pit stop on Christmas Eve.
Those wanting to get outdoors after the festivities can blow off the cobwebs with the Nutcracker Trail around the garden from 26 December - 5 January.
The castle, watermill and garden are open weekends only until 14 December. From 15 December to 4 January, the whole site is open daily (excluding 24 and 25 December).
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
Children are very welcome. There is a children's trail in the house.
- Meeting point
Enter from A39 onto the parkland driveway. Car park is 300 yards from the main road. Please note, our car park is small and parking spaces are limited. Please check our website before travelling.
- What to bring and wear
Sturdy footwear and dress for all weathers is recommended.
- Accessibility
Routes are steep and feature numerous steps, slopes and uneven surfaces. There are designated Blue Badge parking in the main car park. We have powered mobility vehicles (Trampers) available for hire. Please call 01643 821314 to hire for a morning or afternoon slot. Our courtesy vehicle also runs between the car park, ticket office and castle. Please ask for availability on arrival.
Upcoming events
Siege of Dunster Displays
Wander through the house and discover 17th Century highlights in the castle's collection.
Victorian Kitchen Tours
Go behind the scenes and into the past with one of the knowledgeable volunteer guides.
Afternoon Tea
Relax with a delicious afternoon tea at the Watermill Tearoom.
Medieval Tours
Dunster Castle has 1000 years of history, but how did it all begin? From Norman conquest to English Civil War, trace the earlier castle story.