Dunster

Medievel Dunster

Dunster village is a very popular Somerset magnet but always can surprise you with a tranquil spot to picnic and to laze away the day. Once a port, today Dunster village is stranded from the sea and sits beneath the imposing fortifications of Norman Dunster Castle.

Rebuilt after the English Civil War as a country house, the castle is now in the guardianship of the National Trust.

Inside the castle there are fine plasterwork ceilings.

The extensive terraced and landscaped gardens contain many rare shrubs and trees, and offer marvellous views out to sea, and towards the Quantocks.

The medievel High Street runs down from the castle, beside its many interesting old shops, restaurants and inns down to the famous 17th Century Yarn Market (copied much later at Bournville).

Dunster Mill, on the banks of the River Avill, is well worth your perusal and is rare in having two working water wheels.

Dunster Show is held annually on the third Friday in August beneath the Castle, adjacent to the A39 near Minehead, and provides superb entertainment for all the family.

Not far from Dunster: Washford