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Dunster, Somerset

Dunster Keeper's House

Keeper's House exterior, Dunster
The exterior of Keeper's House, Dunster | © National Trust Images / Mike Henton
Keeper's House sitting room, Dunster
Keeper's House dining room, Dunster

Dunster Keeper's House

Between the foothills of Exmoor National Park and the Somerset coast, this ancient but newly-renovated cottage, overlooking Dunster Castle, has bags of charm.

Grid of 10 images
Keeper's House sitting room, Dunster
Keeper's House dining room, Dunster
Keeper's House exterior, Dunster
Keeper's House kitchen, Dunster
The double bedroom at Keeper's House, Dunster
Keeper's House twin bedroom, Dunster
The single bedroom at Keeper's House, Dunster
The bathroom at Keeper's House, Dunster
The garden at Keeper's House, Dunster
The surrounding area at Keeper's House, Dunster

© National Trust Images / Mike Henton

Between the foothills of Exmoor National Park and the Somerset coast, this ancient but newly-renovated cottage, overlooking Dunster Castle, has bags of charm.

At a glance

Guests
5
Bedrooms
3
Number of dogs welcome
0
Reference
003059
Acorn rating

About Dunster Keeper's House

Sitting on Castle Hill Road, the main approach to Dunster Castle, and within the castle grounds, this historic gem of a cottage provides the perfect backdrop for groups of friends, history lovers or families with older children to stay whilst exploring the beaches, coves and towns dotted along the north west Somerset coast.

You’ll feel the past bursting out of this wonderful cottage even as you unlock the front door. From the quarry-tiled hallway to the original stonework and woodwork, you’ll see the recent restoration has left lots of history on show. Downstairs there’s the comfy living room, dining room, downstairs bathroom and a kitchen at the back of the cottage. Then follow the winding stairs up to the first floor where you’ll find the master bedroom, a twin and single bedroom, sleeping five in total. Outside, enjoy the paved courtyard garden on sunny days or for al fresco dinners as the sun sets while you gaze over the medieval rooftops of Dunster in one direction, and the castle in the other.

The pretty village of Dunster with its shops, restaurants and pubs (not forgetting the castle and working watermill) is on your doorstep when you stay here, great for grabbing a coffee and a slice of cake. A little further away you’ll find the coastal town of Minehead less than 10 minutes by car, with its mix of high street and independent shops. There’s also a family-friendly beach known as the Strand, ideal for either beach games and sandcastle building, or a gentle stroll along the shore. If you’re keen to leave the car behind, then simply take a walk into the beautiful Exmoor hills. And once you’re all walked out then how about a quick trip on the West Somerset Steam Railway? Dunster is one of ten stations on the route.

North Devon’s rolling hills and tranquil ancient woods are a great escape from bustling cities. With Dunster Keeper's Cottage perched on the eastern edge of Exmoor, you can carry on your adventures westwards to discover coastal towns such as peaceful Bossington (on the Holnicote Estate), Lynton and Ilfracombe. Or head east to explore the wilderness of Quantock Hills AONB with its heathland and views over the Somerset levels.

Features and facilities

  • Wi-Fi, available
  • Garden, available
  • EV charging, not available
  • Fridge, available
  • Freezer, available
  • Microwave, available
  • Open fire / wood burner, available
  • Television, available
  • DVD, available
  • Washing machine, available
  • Dishwasher, available
  • Tumble dryer, available
  • BBQ, not available
  • Cot & high chair, available

Location

Accessibility

Find information in the Accessibility Guide. Accessibility questions? Email holiday.enquiries@nationaltrust.org.uk or call us on 0344 800 2070.

Read our accessibility guide 

Layout

Ground floor layout

Sitting room with log burner, dining room, kitchen and bathroom with separate shower.

First floor layout

Three bedrooms (one double, one single and one twin).

More information

WIFI: We’re pleased to provide free WiFi access at this accommodation, which is supported by BT. Please note intermittent connection problems can sometimes occur and therefore should not be relied upon.

Heating: Gas central heating included in the holiday rental. There is also a log burner in the sitting room. 

Parking: Parking is available in the main visitor car park.

Garden: There is an elevated, paved courtyard with seating and views down to the castle and over the rooftops of Dunster village.

Please note: Dunster Keeper's House is situated within the Dunster Castle grounds on Castle Hill Road. This is the main visitor route to the castle so may be busy at peak times.

Offers: Guests will benefit from a late Sunday checkout of 4pm at this cottage.

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