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.
Visiting the garden at Dunster Castle and Watermill
Famous for spectacular views over the Somerset countryside and Bristol Channel, the garden at Dunster Castle will take you on a journey around the world. Known for its diversity of plants and features, the garden encompasses four different microclimates for you to experience, with subtropical, Mediterranean and temperate plants beside the river, in the herbaceous borders and on the terraces.
The garden in autumn
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature with a visit to the gardens this autumn. As the season unfolds, the trees of Dunster present a spectacular display of autumn colour, making this one of the most picturesque times of year to visit. The Dream Garden also continues to shine with a dazzling variety of dahlias, bringing bold colour and texture to the beds. Look out too for the usual eye-catching inflated fruits of the balloon plants (Gomphocarpus physocarpus). The hydrangeas add their own seasonal charm, maturing from their summer splendour into soft pinks and dusky blues catch the autumn light beautifully.
The South Terrace
With far-reaching views across the Bristol Channel and Deer Park, the South Terrace's present layout stems from the Victorian period. In the 1820s the Thornhill Chapel was demolished and a new wing was constructed in its place which resulted in the terrace being formed.
To reflect its history, the flower beds are planted in the Victorian style. The area has a Mediterranean feel due to the micro-climate which enables tender plants to thrive, including the row of Chusan palms.
The River Garden
With its native microclimate, the River Garden is a wild, wooded area. Green throughout the year, it is during the spring that it fills with colour as the magnolia trees bloom. .
It is home to some rare species, including the Handkerchief tree, which was grown from seed brought back from Australia by Alys Luttrell in her purse in the 1920s.
Bridges cross the River Avil which runs through the garden. These lead to walks on the wider estate. At the end of the garden you'll find the working watermill and tea-room.
The Yew Bank
There have been yews on this bank dating back to the 18th century when the original drive, The New Way, was commissioned in 1720 by Dorothy Luttrell.
In those days, it was very fashionable to create areas of light and shade within a garden and yews were perfect for creating a cooler area. However, over the years, they grew too large so were coppiced in 2012 and are now kept within bounds.
The Keep
This area was originally the Upper Ward of the Norman Fortress of Dunster and, therefore, is the highest point in the Dunster landscape. In 1721, at the request of Dorothy Luttrell, the area was levelled and turned into a bowling green.
To offer shelter and a dining area for the participants and the ladies, the Octagon Tower was constructed, and this now houses an exhibition exploring the garden's history.
A walk around the keep’s perimeter provides views across the countryside and on a clear day Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor.
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History of the working watermill at Dunster Castle
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Dunster Castle is a two pawprint rated place. From wide open parkland to formal gardens, your dog walk needn’t be boring during your visit to Dunster Castle and Watermill.
Things to see and do at Dunster Castle and Watermill
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.
Eating and shopping at Dunster Castle and Watermill
There are several places to enjoy a bite to eat and a drink during your visit to Dunster Castle and Watermill. Find out more about what each outlet has to offer.
History of the garden at Dunster Castle
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