Make Dunster Village Your Base When Holidaying on Exmoor
If you are planning Exmoor cottage holidays that combine the dual delights of the West Somerset coast and the Exmoor National Park, then book a holiday cottage in Dunster. Stepping into the historic village of Dunster feels like travelling back in time, from medieval knights at the castle to the Victorian splendour of the steam railway. Set within beautiful Exmoor National Park, the village is the perfect base for a mini-break or longer discovering the beauty of the Moor. Here are five places and activities in and around Dunster not to miss:
Dunster – A spellbinding medieval village
Dunster High St and Yarn Market. Can you spot the holes made by cannonballs during the Civil War?
Make the most of Dunster’s historic village centre. On West Street, you’ll find Chatelaine with quirky antiques, Made in Dunster with beautiful handmade gifts, and the Chapel House Tea Rooms for great cakes. Carry on past the much-photographed Nunnery to the high street with its ancient Yarn Market and be fascinated by its history. Located in the centre of the village, here you can walk to Conygar Tower, mooch around the lovely independent shops, or stop for refreshments in one of the local cafes. For lunch, try the bar at the Luttrell Arms, and we recommend the award-winning Reeves Restaurant for a special dinner.
Romp through the ages at Dunster Castle
Romp through interesting and gory ages of English history in this ancient castle. Today’s building combines medieval and Victorian construction. There are unique leather wall hangings, an impressive carved staircase and spooky stories. If you’re interested in how Victorian staff lived and worked in a house of this scale, take the Attics and Basements tour. Outside, there are year-round activities for families, pretty gardens to explore, and a working watermill.
Chalets and ice creams at Dunster beach
Dunster Beach represents the seaside as it used to be - restored and cherished beach huts lining a pebble and sand beach. There are far-reaching views, with the beachfront stretching towards Minehead and Blue Anchor. It’s the perfect start (or end) to a lovely coastal walk – or just a great place to build a sandcastle or sit and enjoy the sights and sounds of the seaside - with ice creams, of course. There’s a beach shop that sells both.
The beaten and unbeaten tracks of Minehead
There’s a change of pace in Minehead, a vibrant town with a lovely long sandy beach, a promenade offering a range of attractions and an interesting harbour. For walkers, the SW Coastal Path starts in Minehead with the massive sculpture of a pair of hands holding a map. It’s an excellent place for local pubs, many of which are dog friendly. We recommend The Old Ship Aground at the end of the harbour. Try The Apple Tree Tea Rooms and the Creamery for tea and cake. For those dreaming of thatched cottages, find your way to St Michael’s Church and walk down the Church Steps – you really will be transported back in time in this beautiful and often-ignored part of the town.
Get lost in steam on the West Somerset Railway.
Go on a steam adventure, and let the kids imagine they are on Harry Potter’s Hogwarts Express. The railway runs every day from May to September and regularly from February to November. The route stops on the way to Bishops Lydeard through beautiful countryside, past unspoiled villages and an expansive coastline, making it an exciting day trip for all ages.
Where to Stay
There are some lovely holiday cottages in Dunster and nearby Dunster Beach. Click here to view self-catering accommodation options for Dunster.
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