Dunster Keeper's House, Dunster

Somerset. Sleeps up to 5

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 Keepers 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 it’s heathland and views over the Somerset levels.

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