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A Country Christmas at Dunster Castle

We have something for everyone this Christmas inside the castle and in the gardens. Soak up the festive atmosphere and make Dunster Castle a part of your Christmas traditions.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

See the castle decorated for a family Christmas, just as the Luttrells once did when they were in residence. Wander round the house and enjoy the decorated trees and natural garlands, created from plants from the gardens by Dunster's garden team. You can settle down and play games in the Morning Room, set places for dinner in the Blue Kitchen and spot friendly knitted robins hiding in the rooms.

The castle is open from 10am-3pm at weekends throughout December and daily 18 December-2 January. Last entry to the castle 2.45pm.

Come and see the working watermill where flour is milled every week. Explore the history of the building and follow the milling process through three floors of traditional machinery. Treat yourself or purchase a gift of some Dunster Watermill flour, porridge or even a bag of seasonal muesli (while stocks last). 

Take a stroll through the beautiful subtropical gardens at the South Terrace and Keep or explore the River Gardens, where the River Avill flows past giant redwoods, or let off some steam in the natural play area.  

Open weekends only 3-17 December, then open daily 18 December- 2 January 10am-4pm. Last entry to gardens at 3pm.

 The tearoom and shop are open daily throughout December. Enjoy seasonal treats in the tearoom or pick up one of our barista-made hot drinks to warm up after a winter walk. Find the perfect gift in the Stables Shop with lovely local produce and a wide range of products to suit all tastes.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

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

Check admission prices

The 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.

Contact info

Dunster Castle and Watermill

Upcoming events

Event

Dunster Castle and Watermill at Dunster by Candlelight 

Visit the castle decorated for Christmas after hours as part of Dunster Village's event Dunster by Candlelight.

Event summary

on
1 Dec to 2 Dec 2023
at
17:00 to 21:00
+ 1 other date or time
Event

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.

Event summary

on
5 Feb 2024
at
10:30 to 15:30
Event

February Half Term Trail 

Walter, Julian and Penelope Luttrell are getting restless in the castle so decide to head outside on a winter adventure. What will you find with them? Answer the questions and complete the activities as you explore the gardens.

Event summary

on
10 Feb to 18 Feb 2024
at
10:00 to 16:00
+ 8 other dates or times
Event

Snowdrop planting 

Plant some snowdrop bulbs for yourself or a loved one.

Event summary

on
14 Feb 2024
at
10:00 to 12:30
+ 1 other date or time