Discover Dunster: The View that Launched a Thousand Crashes ⛰️
They call it the view that launched a thousand crashes, and tragically, it's all too true: Dunster Castle has claimed lives as motorists slam on their brakes to take in the breathtaking sight.
The Spellbinding View of Dunster Castle 👀
The view appears as a stunning surprise when driving on the A39 towards Minehead from Carhampton. Suddenly, there it is: the great castle hanging above Dunster Lawns, as if straight out of a fairy tale.
This panorama truly captures the essence of the old market town nestled between the hills, the castle, and the sea. It is a show-stopper, one of those places in the West Country that exudes a magic all of its own.
Dunster with Luttrell Arms secret garden in foreground
Dunster: A Picture-Perfect Westcountry Jewel 🌃
Dunster is, arguably, the crown jewel among the West Country's scenic honey-pots. Point your camera anywhere in this picturesque village, and you'll capture a timeless shot. The famous Yarn Market, which dominates the main street, is one of the most photographed structures in the region.
Back in 1823, William Hazlitt described Dunster: "Eyeing it wistfully as it lay below us, contrasted with the woody scene around, it looked as clear, as pure, as embrowned and ideal as any landscape I have seen since..."
Walk around Dunster today, and it's easy to agree with Hazlitt. The charm is palpable.
A Hymn-Worthy Landscape 👨🌄
Just over a century ago, Mrs. Cecil Frances Alexander was so enchanted that she wrote the famous hymn "All Things Bright and Beautiful" while sitting on Grabbist, the hill that serves as Dunster's backdrop. Dunkery Beacon, rising beyond the Avill Valley, may not be exactly a "purple headed mountain," but the sentiment rings true enough.
Hills above Dunster
A Village of Timeless Appeal ⏳
Dunster is as historic as it is beautiful, and it attracts day-trippers like a magnet. Yet, it has remained resilient against the pressures of mass tourism. The National Trust plays a significant role here, owning Dunster Castle and managing traffic to help preserve the village's charm. The Trust's car park, conveniently located just off the main road, alleviates much of the congestion in the village.
West Street, Dunster
The Castle That Dominates All 🏰
The sight of Dunster Castle perched on its knoll is ever-present, following you wherever you wander in the village. Originally established in 1067, this ancient fortress has ruled over Dunster for almost a thousand years. Its presence looms large, omnipotent even on the darkest winter nights.
The Luttrell family lived in the castle for centuries until Colonel Sir Walter Luttrell gifted it to the National Trust in 1976. Though times have changed, the influence of the castle remains palpable, and the sense of power from this ancient seat still lingers.
Legends of Lady Elizabeth and a Naked Ride 🚃
Dunster is steeped in history, filled with legends and anecdotes. One such tale tells of Lady Elizabeth de Mohun, who rode naked at dawn to claim land for the villagers after her husband made the daring condition. Grateful townsfolk supposedly averted their eyes, but, well, that part might be stretching it!
Rolling History Under Dunster's Castle Walls 🛠️
Ruins on Conygar Hill
From mediaeval masons building the grand church and priory to Benedictine monks silently filing past the Nunnery, a pageant of history has unfolded beneath the castle walls. Even King Charles II, escaping the plague, found temporary refuge here.
Conygar Tower
The history of Dunster is woven with stories of packmen, farmers' wives spinning yarn, and ancient market dealings under the iconic Yarn Market roof. Today, the village might not have a grocery store, but its gift shops still offer a charming, tourist-friendly experience.
The Village That Time Couldn't Spoil 🚗🗿
Though cars now fill the historic streets, Dunster has managed to keep the modern world at bay. The old centre remains untouched by sprawling developments, and every year during the candle-lit Christmas festival, the village offers a glimpse of its magical past.
It's a shame the bypass never happened – the High Street remains cluttered with vehicles. But if you imagine it car-free, you get a sense of the wonder that Dunster once held and still manages to evoke.
Hidden Gems of Dunster 💎
A Few Things You Didn't Know:
A legend that a giant was locked in a dungeon turned out to be partly true – a manacled skeleton was uncovered during the last century in Dunster Castle's Gatehouse.
Dunster once had a port called "The Hawn," which still exists in some form, though now it's landlocked and inhabited by ducks.
There is a reputed tunnel from the Castle to Conygar Tower, the hilltop folly that crowns the woodland opposite the village.
Thomas Hardy's novel "A Laodicean" was set in Dunster, although it remains one of his lesser-known works.
The villagers still recall their very own ogre with the "Giant's Seat" high on Grabbist, from where the friendly giant was said to wave and help dry their washing!
Dunster's deep history and enchanting scenery make it a must-visit location on any Westcountry itinerary. Come for the views, stay for the legends, and watch out as you round that bend on the A39! 🌱
