DUNSTER CASTLE HOTEL
About the Castle Hotel
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.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
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
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Garden furniture
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
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