Dunster Castle

Cultural

Dunster is an ancient castle and watermil is a comfortable country home with dramatic vistas and subtropical gardens.

Opening Times

Monday	10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Tuesday	10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Wednesday	10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Thursday	10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Friday	10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Saturday	10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Sunday	10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Usual Opening Times

Monday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Dramatically sited on a wooded hill, a castle has existed here since at least Norman times, with an impressive medieval gatehouse and ruined tower giving a reminder of its turbulent history. The castle that you see today became a lavish country home during the 19th century for the Luttrell family, who lived here for 600 years.

The terraced garden displays varieties of Mediterranean and subtropical plants, while the tranquil riverside wooded garden below, with its natural play area, leads to the historic working watermill. There are panoramic views over the Bristol Channel and surrounding countryside from the castle and grounds.

Location

Dunster Castle

Address

Dunster, Minehead TA24 6NY, UK

What3Words ///pine.inversely.presses

01643 821314

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

dunstercastle@nationaltrust.org.uk

Driving from our parks

Lynmouth Retreat: 21.81 miles / 46 mins
Yellow Sands: 38.77 miles / 76 mins

Rating

★★★★★4.7

Based on 8,448 reviews

Info correct at time of publish: April 10, 2026. Always check with location before visiting.

Reviews

Nick Miles

2 months ago

Good day out - especially if you can make the most of the grounds.
The castle buildings and rooms are interesting, especially the way they've been adapted over the centuries.
There is great history here (and great views) amid incredible architecture and style. Plenty of parking - food options although next time I'll bring a picnic!

Francesca Lees

3 months ago

Had a brilliant tour of the Water Mill from Stuart- so knowledgeable and the talk was riveting. Amazing that the Mill is in operation even today. Cannot recommend enough! All the staff are so friendly and conscientious. Particular highlight was seeing how the castle had been converted and maintained as a stately family home- much warmer than your usual castle!

Kira Louise

3 months ago

Dunster castle is a very beautiful place to visit. Being a history nerd I was in my element. Please visit the leather room. There is a man ( im sad i didn't get his name) who will tell you the history about Mark Anthony and Cleopatra. He was so knowledgeable and so lovely to talk too. The castle was gorgeously decorated with christmas trees. Dunster village is just outside the castle grounds and OMG it was like looking at a postcard. Im so jealous of the people what live in the beautiful cottages. Dunster castle is a must visit if you ever visit Somerset.

Stanka Mitreva

4 months ago

We spent a lovely family day in the castle. When you arrive, ask for a map at reception, and they'll show you which paths are suitable for pushchairs. During summer, the castle offers a fun bat trail for kids – for an extra £3, they receive a prize at the end. Although we skipped the paid part, our child still enjoyed searching for hidden bats throughout the castle. The castle itself and its beautiful gardens offer plenty of activities for kids in the summer. Highly recommend!

TWR

3 months ago

Fantastic building in an amazing location.
Extremely rare leather and silver leaf paintings are breathtaking.
Extensive gardens; steep in parts with a great kids play area.
The mill was an added bonus. Well maintained, producing and selling their own flour with a super cafe nearby.

Raquel Rolo Duarte

6 months ago

Dunster Castle is magical and so incredibly beautiful. We visited it on a beautiful summer day, the kids loved the outdoor games and the bat trail activity. The castle inside is very well cared for and the gardens are a dream to explore.
Highly recommend.
Tickets can only be bought on site :)