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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!

On Tuesday, 24 February 2026, 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 details

Call 0344 249 1895

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 lunch menu and will ask for your choices.

Contact info

Dunster Castle and Watermill

Upcoming events

Civil War Tours 

Travel back in time on Dunster Castle’s brand new Civil War Tour, where the dramatic story of the castle’s role in one of England’s most turbulent periods is brought vividly to life.

Event summary

on
24 Jan to 7 Feb 2026
at 13:30 to 14:30+ 2 other dates or times

Dunster Uncovered Tour 

Join one of our knowledgable guides and discover Dunster Castle beyond the visitor rope.

Event summary

on
25 Jan to 8 Feb 2026
at 11:00 to 12:00+ 5 other dates or times

Victorian Kitchen Tours 

Go behind the scenes and into the past with one of the knowledgeable volunteer guides.

Event summary

on
25 Jan to 1 Feb 2026
at 11:00 to 12:00+ 3 other dates or times

Behind the scenes: Attic Tours (Weekends) 

If you've always wanted to see more of Dunster Castle, come on an attic tour with one of the castle's knowledgeable tour guides.

Event summary

on
25 Jan to 8 Feb 2026
at 13:30 to 14:30+ 2 other dates or times