Dunster Castle Experience Days - A Morning with the Head Gardener
An exclusive chance to spend the morning with Dunster Castle's Head Gardener, including a bespoke tour, and afternoon tea at the Watermill Tearoom.
Spend the morning with Dunster Castle's Head Gardener, James Cordingley. Responsible for the care and vision of Dunster’s 18 acres of historic and subtropical gardens, James brings more than 18 years of horticultural experience- this special event is your chance to explore the gardens with the person who knows them best.
The morning begins with refreshments and an introductory talk, where James will share insights into the castle’s rich horticultural history, its unusual microclimate, and the challenges and joys of caring for such a diverse landscape. You’ll then set out on an exclusive guided tour, including access to areas of the garden not normally open to visitors. This is a rare opportunity to delve deeper into Dunster Castle’s remarkable plant collections, long-standing garden design principles, and the unique subtropical environment that shapes them.
Once the tour is over, you'll head down to the Watermill Tearoom for a delicious Afternoon Tea. James will accompany you and will be on hand to chat and answer questions in a relaxed and friendly setting.
Please note:
- Please park in the Dunster Castle car park then make your way to Visitor Reception, where a member of staff will greet you before escorting you to the castle to begin your day.
- Please wear sensible, flat shoes and come well wrapped up. There is some outdoor walking involved so we recommend bringing waterproof clothing just in case.
- There is a steep hill leading up to the castle. Changes of levels, steep and uneven steps and confined spaces within the tour route.
- The tours are recommended for ages 13 and over.
- Once you have completed your booking, our team will be in touch with the menu and will ask for your choices.
Ticket options
An exclusive chance to spend the morning with Dunster Castle's Head Gardener, including a bespoke tour, and afternoon tea at the Watermill Tearoom.
Spend the morning with Dunster Castle's Head Gardener, James Cordingley. Responsible for the care and vision of Dunster’s 18 acres of historic and subtropical gardens, James brings more than 18 years of horticultural experience- this special event is your chance to explore the gardens with the person who knows them best.
The morning begins with refreshments and an introductory talk, where James will share insights into the castle’s rich horticultural history, its unusual microclimate, and the challenges and joys of caring for such a diverse landscape. You’ll then set out on an exclusive guided tour, including access to areas of the garden not normally open to visitors. This is a rare opportunity to delve deeper into Dunster Castle’s remarkable plant collections, long-standing garden design principles, and the unique subtropical environment that shapes them.
Once the tour is over, you'll head down to the Watermill Tearoom for a delicious Afternoon Tea. James will accompany you and will be on hand to chat and answer questions in a relaxed and friendly setting.
Please note:
- Please park in the Dunster Castle car park then make your way to Visitor Reception, where a member of staff will greet you before escorting you to the castle to begin your day.
- Please wear sensible, flat shoes and come well wrapped up. There is some outdoor walking involved so we recommend bringing waterproof clothing just in case.
- There is a steep hill leading up to the castle. Changes of levels, steep and uneven steps and confined spaces within the tour route.
- The tours are recommended for ages 13 and over.
- Once you have completed your booking, our team will be in touch with the menu and will ask for your choices.
Our payments are processed using : Sage Pay
