Forgotten Dunster: A Guide to its History, Legends and Ghosts
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About the Tour
About the Tour
Dunster’s narrow streets, castle ruins, and historic buildings have centuries of eerie tales, just waiting to be discovered.
On this tour through one of England’s best-preserved medieval villages, you’ll discover chilling stories about vengeful spirits, mysterious apparitions, and monks who never left. I’ll also share some of the darker chapters of Dunster’s turbulent past.
The journey begins at the iconic Yarn Market, built in the 1600s for the thriving wool trade. As you wander through atmospheric lanes and historic landmarks, you’ll hear tales about the White Lady of The Nunnery, and the Grey Lady who the castle staff consider “part of the family.”
But it’s not only ghosts you’ll meet. You’ll also hear about the village’s grim history, including grisly executions during the Monmouth Rebellion, ancient graffiti carved into stone, and the hidden priest holes that sheltered Catholic clergy in dangerous times. The walk ends along Dunster’s High Street, where inns and medieval buildings form the perfect backdrop for centuries of legends, folklore, and ghostly encounters.
On this 45-minute walk, you’ll also:
- Visit Dunster’s famous dovecote, one of the oldest surviving buildings in the village, built in the 1200s
- Explore the graveyard of St. George’s Church, where a Civil War soldier is still said to wander
- Cross the medieval Gallox Bridge, once the vital link between Dunster’s harbor and castle
- Hear gruesome stories about the Monmouth rebels who met their end on Gallows Road
- See the historic Dunster Castle Watermill, one of only two functioning double overshot watermills in England
This tour offers a unique blend of history, folklore, and mystery – bringing the haunted heart of Dunster to life as you explore at your own pace.
Tour Producer
Tour Producer
Extours
Extours specialises in immersive historical and paranormal tours across the South West of England, combining academic research with insightful storytelling and hands-on paranormal investigation to uncover the forgotten stories that linger in everyday places. With a deep commitment to preserving heritage, Extours encourages guests to view familiar landscapes through a more illuminating — and sometimes otherworldly — lens.
Founded by historian who also has a strong interest in the paranormal, Bobbie Rammond, Extours brings overlooked corners of the past to life. Bobbie’s academic background in history, heritage, and archaeology — coupled with his experience encountering unexplained phenomena — shapes every event, turning ghost walks and investigations into meaningful historical explorations.
Joining him is Fiona, Extours' Head of Events and Guest Experience. With a rich background in broadcasting, journalism, and performing arts, Fiona enriches each tour with engaging storytelling and a passion for architecture and the paranormal. Her personal encounters with the unexplained add depth and authenticity to our walks.
Together, Bobbie and Fiona guide you into the heart of local history, uncovering the echoes of the past and inviting you to experience them first-hand.
Preview Location
Preview Location
Location 1
Start Tour: The Yarn Market and The Luttrell Arms
I’m Bobbie, founder of Extours — a company dedicated to uncovering the lesser-known stories of Somerset’s past. It all began right here in Dunster with the Ghost Walk. Before launching Extours, I worked at Dunster... Read More
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Major Landmarks
Major Landmarks
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English Heritage - Yarn Market
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The Luttrell Arms Hotel
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Yarn Market Hotel
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Dunster Tithe Barn
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Dunster Dovecote
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St George's Church
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The Stags Head Dunster
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The Foresters Arms Dunster
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Millstream Cottage
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National Trust - Dunster Castle and Watermill
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Exmoor National Park Centre, Dunster
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The Medieval Gallery
Getting There
Getting There
Route Overview
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Start location32-36 High St, Dunster, Minehead TA24 6SG, UK
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Total distance2km
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Final locationHigh St, Dunster, Minehead TA24, UK
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Distance back to start location61.88m
Directions to Starting Point
Park your car: The closest car park is just off the A39 — take the first left off the main road.
Head toward Dunster village: From the car park, walk up the slope toward the village. You’ll go up a short flight of steps.
Landmarks along the way:
The Rohan shop will be on your left.
A small kiosk for hot drinks and snacks will be on your right.
Look up and you’ll see the Exmoor National Park building — this is your next landmark.
Proceed carefully: Walk toward the Exmoor National Park building, keeping to the right as you reach it. Be cautious here as there is no designated pavement.
Approaching the High Street: This path will take you to the back of the Luttrell Arms. Continue as the road curves to the left.
Arrival: You’ll soon see the High Street and Yarn Market ahead, with Dunster Castle visible at the opposite side of the village, commanding a view over the area.
Show Directions
Tips
Tips
Places to stop along the way
The Yarn Market — historic center of Dunster’s wool trade
St. George’s Church — visit the graveyard and admire the medieval rood screen
The Tithe Barn — often hosts local exhibitions
Cafés and Kiosks — grab a coffee or snack near the starting point
Stags Head Pub — a historic 15th-century inn with connections to the village’s hidden past
Dunster Castle — the castle grounds are worth a walk before or after the tour
The Dunster Doll Museum
The Stags Head Pub
The Luttrell Arms
Best time of day
The tour can be enjoyed all year round, but for the best experience, we recommend visiting during daylight hours so you can fully appreciate the village’s historic streets and landmarks. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid the busiest times on the High Street. In winter, dress warmly and wear sturdy shoes, as some cobbled lanes can be slippery when wet. If you want a more spooky walk then of course in the evening is best.
Precautions
While the tour is entirely safe, be mindful that some areas have uneven steps and narrow lanes without pavements. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water, and an umbrella or raincoat if the weather looks uncertain. Keep an eye on passing traffic, especially when crossing or walking along roads with no designated pavements.
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