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Gilded Treasures Exhibition: 50 Years of the National Trust at Dunster Castle

Celebrate a golden milestone with us through this special exhibition.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

In 2026, Dunster Castle celebrates 50 years in the care of the National Trust. To mark this golden anniversary, Gilded Treasures invites visitors to discover remarkable golden objects from the castle’s collection.

Displayed throughout the castle, the exhibition highlights items featuring gilded decoration and golden detail. Alongside these objects, uncover the story of how Dunster Castle was generously gifted to the National Trust in 1976 by Lt. Col. Walter Luttrell, which included the estate and thirty acres of surrounding parkland.

Gilded Treasures offers a chance to reflect on the legacy of ownership, care and conservation, and to celebrate five decades of Dunster Castle being preserved for everyone, for ever.

Please note that last entry to the castle is at 3.45pm, closing at 4pm.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

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

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

Children welcome

What to bring and wear

Wear comfortable clothing and dress for the weather. No stilettos allowed in the castle.

Accessibility

The castle sits on top of a steep hill. A courtesy vehicle is available to take visitors from the car park to the castle entrance. Two all-terrain mobility scooters are available to hire in a morning or afternoon slot. Please contact us to book these in advance to ensure availability.

Contact info

Dunster Castle and Watermill

Upcoming events

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!

Event summary

on
31 May to 12 Jul 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 42 other dates or times

Behind-the-Ropes Tours (weekends) 

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

Event summary

on
31 May to 1 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 12:00+ 89 other dates or times

Sword-Fighting Knights 

Step back in time and watch sword-fighting knights battle it out at Dunster Castle.

Event summary

on
31 May 2026
at 12:00 to 13:00

Attic Tours (Weekends) 

Venture up into the attics for a rare glimpse into life behind the scenes Dunster Castle.

Event summary

on
31 May to 1 Nov 2026
at 13:30 to 14:30+ 45 other dates or times