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09Jan2026Select date
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Castle Hotel

5 High Street, Dunster, United Kingdom
-
Next to Dunster Castle
Perfect
9.1
9.8
/10
4.6
4.6
/5

Dunster Castle Hotel, Dunster - A Medieval Jewel

Dunster Castle Hotel, standing at the base of its imposing namesake, offers a compelling proposition for those seeking an authentic immersion into the heart of a medieval English village. This Grade II listed building, dating from the 1700s, presents a visual commitment to tradition, making it a superb base for exploring the dramatic North Somerset coastline and the enchanting Exmoor National Park.

Location

The hotel's position on the High Street, just 30 meters from Dunster Castle's entrance, is remarkable. This central artery of Dunster ripples down the village, flanked by a procession of 17th to 19th-century houses and cobbled paths. It's a setting that immediately transports you, placing you at the gateway to the vast Exmoor National Park, a realm of hardy Exmoor ponies and elusive red deer. While the hotel offers excellent proximity to village landmarks like the Dovecote and Watermill, personally, I find the dual-aspect views from some rooms, capturing the essence of this historic thoroughfare, to be the finest in the hotel.

Style and Character

Preserving tradition is paramount here, evident in the building's architecture and the thoughtful integration of its interiors. Shabby chic furniture provides a charming contrast to the modern technology, such as wall-mounted 50-inch Sony SMART TVs. Original Chinese furniture and thick pile carpets are seamlessly incorporated, creating an atmosphere where historical comforts meet contemporary convenience. The sense of history is palpable, making it a place you can happily lose yourself in.

Service and Facilities

While specific details on extensive facilities are limited, the hotel does offer practical amenities including meeting and laundry services. For guests seeking a more relaxed evening, the bar provides a welcoming space for cheese and port, a civilised alternative to a full meal. It is also noteworthy that the hotel accommodates guests with up to two small dogs, a welcome consideration for travellers with canine companions.

Rooms

The accommodation offers a range of characterful rooms. Standard rooms, often located in the eaves, possess a unique charm due to the building's historic nature. The most luxurious room provides the largest sleeping area, featuring a superior king-size bed, an integrated shower, and a bay window overlooking the cobbled street. Oversized rooms are available, with super king-size beds that can be configured as two single beds. All rooms are equipped with USB power sockets for device charging, and even standard rooms include thoughtful touches such as Choc chip cookies, Ferrero Rocher chocolates, and a glass of sherry, ensuring a welcoming arrival.

Food and Drink

The promise of a 'tasty Exmoor breakfast' with duck and goose-down quilts certainly sets a high bar for the morning's fare. While specific restaurant details are scarce, the option to enjoy cheese and port in the bar offers a more intimate dining experience. A note for the discerning diner: a particular steak, described as having a strange liver-like texture, is pre-cooked en masse in bags in warm water, a detail that might give pause to some.

Value for Money

While specific pricing is not detailed, the inclusion of thoughtful amenities like cookies, chocolates, and sherry, coupled with the hotel's historic setting and prime location, suggests a commitment to providing a rewarding guest experience. The characterful rooms and the proximity to Exmoor National Park enhance the overall value.

Accessibility

Information regarding specific accessibility features for guests with disabilities is not provided, though the hotel's historic nature may present inherent challenges. Further inquiry directly with the hotel is recommended.

Family-Friendly

While not explicitly detailed as a family-focused hotel, the availability of rooms that can be converted to twin beds and the general welcoming atmosphere of a historic village hotel would likely make it a pleasant, if not purpose-built, option for families. The inclusion of dog-friendly rooms is a notable feature for families travelling with pets.

“The Dunster Castle Hotel is a charming base for exploring the historic village and nearby Exmoor National Park. I appreciate its dog-friendly approach, with designated rooms and dining areas for guests with pets. The hotel's Grade 2 listed building houses cozy common spaces where guests can relax, especially appealing after a day of sightseeing.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Castle-hotel
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Choose your room

Castle hotels provide room choices such as doubles, family chambers, and grand suites—often with breakfast, free cancellations, and exclusive offers
Small Double or Single Room
2 persons
14 m² 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room
2 persons
19 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Twin Room
2 persons
20 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Superior Double Shower
2 persons
21 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Each castle hotel provides features designed for both comfort and memorable moments

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Fireplace
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Darts
  • Yoga class
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • BBQ facilities
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At Dunster Castle Hotel, the dining experience embodies the charm of traditional British cuisine, set against the backdrop of a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can relish delightful culinary offerings catering to various dietary preferences, ensuring a genuinely welcoming environment for all.
Dunster Castle Hotel Restaurant photo
Dunster Castle Hotel Restaurant photo
Dunster Castle Hotel Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

British
Ambiance
A cozy and traditional setting that invites relaxation and conversation.
Key Offerings
Indulge in a variety of vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options while enjoying a thoughtfully curated dinner menu that's sure to please every palate. For lighter evenings, the bar offers cheese and port to unwind after a day of exploration.
Reservation
Recommended
Open for dinner on Monday and Sunday from 18:00 to 20:30.

Location

5 High Street, Dunster, United Kingdom
Map view
5 High Street, Dunster, United Kingdom
Nearby
Castle
Dunster Castle
450 m
High Street
Yarn Market
140 m
Conygar Tower Gate
60 m
Church Street
The Parish and Priory Church of St. George
220 m
Museum
Dunster Museum and Dolls Collection
30 m
English Heritage
Butter Cross
60 m
Priory Green
Dovecote
170 m
Bridge
Gallox Bridge
190 m
Dunster Village
290 m
Park
Dunster National Park Centre
110 m
1 Church Street adjacent to the Parish Church of St George
Dunster Village Garden
60 m
Dunster
Dunster Butter Cross
490 m
14 High Street
The Medieval Gallery
120 m
Restaurants
Castle Coffee House
180 m
House Castle Coffee 4 High Street
Dunster Castle Hotel
180 m
5 High Street
Reeves Restaurant
120 m
20-22 High Street Somerset
The Dragon House Hotel
170 m
Bilbrook
Squires Brasserie
180 m
5 High Street
Cobblestones
120 m
24 High Street
Tessa's Tea Room
130 m
13 High Street The Olde House
Reeve's
10 m
20 High St
The Chocolate House
130 m
12 High Street
Psalter's Restaurant
60 m
32-36 High Street
The Yarn Market Restaurant
60 m
25-33 High Street
Tea Room at Chapel House
400 m
2 West Street
Explore Dunster
Explore Dunster and Beyond
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Dunster Castle
6-minute walk
Dunster Castle offers stunning gardens and historic architecture, with guided tours showcasing its rich heritage.
Dunster Working Watermill
10-minute walk
Dunster Working Watermill features traditional milling demonstrations and picturesque surroundings along the river.
Yarn Market
2-minute walk
Yarn Market is an iconic part of Dunster's history, known for its beautiful architecture and local artisan shops.
The Parish and Priory Church of St. George
3-minute walk
This historic church features beautiful architecture and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection.
Hiking in Exmoor National Park
15-minute drive
Exmoor offers scenic trails for hiking enthusiasts, with maps available at the hotel and breathtaking views.
Relaxing at Dunster Beach
30-minute walk
Dunster Beach boasts a lovely sandy shore ideal for beach walks or picnics, just a short stroll from the hotel.
Castle Coffee House
3-minute walk
A cozy café serving homemade cakes and local coffee, perfect for a casual meal or afternoon treat.
Reeves Restaurant
2-minute walk
An elegant restaurant offering seasonal dishes made from local produce in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Minehead Eye
35-minute walk
A vibrant venue with activities for all ages, including skateboarding, music events, and workshops.
Butlin's Minehead Resort
5-minute drive
Butlin's features entertainment like live shows and amusement park rides, suitable for family fun and relaxation.
Local transport options
City Centre
Dunster3 min  ·  200 m
Airports
Bristol Airport (BRS)118 min  ·  78.6 km
Exeter International Airport (EXT)120 min  ·  79.9 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-19:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Dunster Castle guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
9
Questions of the users
About Dunster Castle Hotel
Is there a parking facility available at the hotel?
10 January 2024
Yes, there is a dedicated car park for guests.
Are evening meals served in the restaurant?
15 February 2024
Currently, the restaurant is open only for breakfast, but the situation is being reviewed regularly.
Are there rooms on the ground floor available for guests who cannot use stairs?
22 March 2024
The hotel offers a room known as Dovecote which is located on the ground floor and has its own entrance.
Is the restaurant open on Christmas Day for dining?
25 April 2024
Unfortunately, the restaurant will not be open on Christmas Day.
Are well-behaved dogs allowed in the hotel and restaurant?
12 May 2024
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome in designated areas of the restaurant and in certain rooms.
Can guests park their car before the official check-in time?
30 June 2024
Yes, guests are allowed to park their car in the car park before the 15:00 check-in time.
Will the restaurant reopen for evening meals in the near future?
10 July 2024
As of now, only breakfast is being served, but the hotel is hopeful to expand services soon.
What are the options for dining when the restaurant is closed?
20 August 2024
Guests can bring their own meals, and the hotel will provide a space and washing-up service.
Is the car park accessible for larger vehicles or vans?
15 September 2024
The car park entrance is 2.3 meters wide, but it has a slight bend, which could affect larger vehicles.
Are there any special packages available for romantic getaways?
30 October 2024
Yes, the hotel offers various packages for romantic escapes, including room upgrades and dining options.

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Dunster Castle Hotel Exterior photo

Dunster Castle Hotel

9.1
Perfect641 reviews
200 m from center
141 US$
157 US$
per night
Mobile-only price