
Discover more at Dunster Castle and Watermill
Find out when Dunster Castle and Watermill is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Bring your school for an awe-inspiring visit to Dunster Castle and Watermill. Explore the showrooms, take in the far-reaching views and seek out the hidden corners of the gardens, as you discover 1000 years of history and how the castle was transformed from fortress to family home.
With over 1000 years of history at Dunster Castle and Watermill, there is much to see on a visit with your class.
We have two trails available to follow, either with a volunteer assistant or with a self-led teacher resource.
Why castles were built – this outdoor trail explores the outside of the castle and upper gardens, highlighting castle defences and features dating from the 1200s. You'll also see the 700 year old gatehouse and pit dungeon.
Life inside a castle – this indoor trail takes you through the castle rooms as you discover what life might have been like for those that lived and worked in the castle in medieval times. You'll learn about feasting, entertainment and bathing.
We would recommend allowing 30-45 minutes for each trail.
For no additional charge, your group can request to book a Volunteer Assistant for your visit. The Volunteer Assistant will help meet you on arrival, deliver the tours enhanced with props, and be on hand to help with questions and information.
The Volunteer Assistant is subject to availability, so please let us know on booking if you would like one.
All groups must have Education Group Membership or pay normal admission prices. Schools can benefit from an Educational Group Membership, which is an annual membership giving free access to the whole school group at National Trust properties.
Without an Education Group Membership, normal admission to the site applies. These costs are:
£8 per child
£16.00 per adult
What to wear
Please come prepared for walking around the grounds at the castle, which contains several steep slopes and uneven surfaces. We recommend comfortable walking shoes (no flip-flops or heels) and warm, waterproof clothing. There is no indoor space in case of wet weather so please dress appropriately.
Arrival
Please be aware there are no minibus or coach parking spaces in the National Trust car park. All vehicles must park in Dunster Steep.
Outdoor trail
The outdoor trail will take you around the castle and upper gardens, where all pathways are gravel. Please be aware of other visitors and follow the route of your trail.
Indoor Trail
Snacks and lunches
There is no indoor space for bag storage or lunches. Please ensure your group come prepared to carry their own bags. We recommend bringing a carrier bag to sit on if you plan to eat lunch outside as the grass can be damp.
River Gardens and Watermill
Shop and Cafe
Risk Assessments
We have completed full risk assessments for self-led visits, including the available trails. However, it is the school's responsibility to complete their own, in advance of their visit. If your group has EGM, you are entitled to a free pre-visit.
You must book your learning visit at least two weeks in advance. Bookings are currently only available on Wednesdays and Thursdays during term time.
There is a limit of a maximum of 60 pupils per visit.
For further information or to make a booking please contact Tish Russell on 01643 823006 or tish.russell@nationaltrust.org.uk.
There are no coach parking facilities at the castle. Coaches are able to drop off passengers outside the Stable Shop and then park in the free village car park (Dunster Steep).
Dunster is currently unable to accept group bookings but are working to reinstate this offer. Check back to this page for the latest information.
Find out when Dunster Castle and Watermill is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Looking for a fun family day out this summer? Whether you're after outdoor games or a fun trail for the kids, we're got lots for you to enjoy.
Explore 1,000 years of history at Dunster castle, from its collection of painted leather hangings – the only one of its kind in the UK – to its historic working watermill.
Discover a thousand years of history at Dunster Castle. Follow its journey from a Middle Ages fortress to a Victorian family home.
Dunster Castle’s garden has developed and grown over many centuries. Find out more about those who helped shape it into the garden we see today.
Explore the history of the working watermill at Dunster and follow the historical milling process. Buy our organic wholemeal flour, available at the watermill and the stables shop.
If you’re planning educational group visits to National Trust places, then you could benefit from education group membership, giving you free admission for a year.
If you're travelling to the UK from overseas this year, buy a National Trust Touring Pass for entry to more than 300 places in our care. With 7-day and 14-day options available, the pass can be tailored to fit your trip. Discover where you can visit with the Touring Pass and how to buy yours.
Visiting us with a group? Then our answers to your frequently asked questions might help with any question you may have.