Dunster

The village, beach and port of Dunster in Somerset lies on the Bristol Channel coast and was once home to a harbour that played an important role in the trade of wool in Saxon times. The harbour, Dunster Haven was lost to the meadows, dykes and marshes after it was last used in the 17^th century. A walk along the beach now reveals pretty beach huts and families enjoying a holiday rather than a bustling centre of trade. Looking down of the village is the Norman Dunster Castle. Sited on a steep hill, the Grade I listed Dunster Castle underwent refurbishment in the 17^th century and again the Victorian period when the towers and turrets were added. There is much history written in the buildings here, including the Priory Church of St George, the Nunnery, Dunster Mill, Dovecote and the Priory barn and the early 17^th century Yarn Market. The market was an important feature during the heady days of the wool trade and even comes with a hole in one of the roof beams, the result of cannon fire in the Civil War.

Dunster offers ample amenities, shops, eateries and pubs mainly around both the high street and oldest street here, West Street. The beach at Dunster is actually about a half mile from the village and includes the mouth of the River Avill. The area surrounding Dunster is rich with diverse landscapes as well as rare butterflies and beetles within the nearby Dunster Park and Heathlands Site of Special Scientific Interest. The site is protected for its flora and fauna, including ancient semi-natural oak woodland habitats.