Dunster

Picture this: cobbled streets echoing with the clip-clop of hooves, thatched roofs basking in the golden sun, and a majestic castle perched atop a hill, surveying a sprawling panorama of rolling hills and the shimmering Bristol Channel. This isn’t a scene from a forgotten fairytale, but the very essence of Dunster, a village in Somerset that seems to have tumbled straight out of the pages of history.

Dunster is more than just a pretty face, though its undeniable charm is certainly its calling card. Wandering through its narrow lanes feels like stepping back in time. Timeworn facades whisper tales of centuries past, with independent shops offering treasures from local artisans and tearooms tempting you with the aroma of freshly baked scones. Don’t miss the Luttrell Arms, a 400-year-old inn oozing character, where you can imagine knights and troubadours once gathered by the crackling fireplace.

But Dunster isn’t just a museum piece. Adventure beckons at every corner. For those with a thirst for history, Dunster Castle, a sprawling fortress with Norman roots, promises a journey through time. Explore its ramparts, peek into opulent chambers, and lose yourself in the tales of knights and noble families who walked these halls.

Nature lovers will find solace in the rolling hills of Exmoor, just beyond the village. Trek through heather-clad moors, breathe in the invigorating sea air on the dramatic coastline, or spot playful wildlife – Exmoor ponies with their shaggy coats, red deer leaping through the woods, and, if you’re lucky, the elusive Exmoor buzzard soaring overhead.

And when the day’s adventures come to an end, what better way to unwind than with a pint of local cider in a quaint pub? Watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues, and listen to the murmur of lively chatter and the crackling of a log fire. This is the true magic of Dunster – a place where time seems to slow down, where history whispers at every turn, and where nature’s beauty leaves you breathless.

So, if you’re seeking a getaway that transcends the ordinary, pack your walking boots, a sense of wonder, and head to Dunster. This little village in Somerset promises an escape to a gentler time, a place where history whispers and adventure awaits, just around the bend.