Overview

Enjoy an incredible day out at Dunster Castle and Watermill where families will be fascinated by visiting the ancient castle, stunning country home, and watermill. Set in stunning surroundings including lush subtropical gardens and boasts a natural children’s play area and Victorian-built reservoir.

Things to do

Dunster Castle and Watermill is an incredible place to visit, with new things to discover every time.

The castle has been nestled on a wooded hill since at least Norman times, with a medieval gatehouse and ruined tower as reminders of its turbulent history. The castle was transformed into a lavish country home during the 19th century by the Luttrell family, who had lived there for 600 years.

The terraced garden is home to various Mediterranean and subtropical plants. Below the tranquil riverside wooded garden, with its natural play area, families can reach the historic working watermill. The castle and grounds offer panoramic views of the Bristol Channel and the surrounding countryside

There are so many attractions to enjoy including the ancient castle that was transformed into a lavish country home during the 19th century, a working Victorian watermill featuring three floors of traditional machinery and milling demonstrations, and a terraced garden featuring Mediterranean and subtropical plants, a riverside wooded garden, and a bowling green. There is also Grade II listed parkland with a river home to otters, kingfishers, and salmon and an unusual Victorian reservoir built to supply water to the castle and gardens. Children will love the natural play area created from a giant redwood featuring a wooden xylophone.

Food & Drink

There are several places to enjoy food and drinks while visiting Dunster Castle and Watermill.

The Watermill Tearoom has recently been renovated and is open every day. They serve hot drinks, light refreshments, ice cream from 10 am to 5 pm, and hot food from 12 pm to 2:30 pm. The tearoom is located opposite the working watermill, in a serene environment alongside the River Avill and at the entrance to the River Gardens. The tea garden is a beautiful spot to enjoy refreshing tea or indulge in a scone or a slice of homemade chocolate cake. If you have any specific dietary requirements or are visiting with children, please check the menus before reaching the till points.

This pop-up café is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, serving hot and cold drinks, ice creams, and light refreshments. Tenants’ Hall, where the café is located, is a cosy spot for a break, with two wood-burning stoves.

There is a picnic area near the central car park, with views over the surrounding parkland, up to the castle, and out to the Bristol Channel. Alternatively, you can picnic on the castle grounds, in the green court, or a garden.

The Camellia House is open from 10 am to 4:45 pm on weekends and bank holidays, serving hot and cold drinks, ice creams, and light refreshments. Tucked away on the South Terrace, The Camellia House is a sunny spot to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat.

The shops are also full of items, allowing you to treat yourself or get the perfect gift for a friend.