Luttrell Family

Dunster Castle sits on a hill overlooking the village of Dunster and its imposing fortifications have been a stronghold since before Norman times. After the Norman Conquest the land was given to William de Mohun and remained in his family until 1376 when it was sold to Lady Elizabeth Luttrell. The Luttrell family lived there for 600 years until it was handed over to the National Trust.

The Castle was the scene of a long and bitter siege during the English Civil War and was extensively rebuilt in the 19th century as an elegant country house. The grounds are magnificent, with many rare trees and shrubs and wonderful views across the bay, Exmoor and the Quantocks.

Contributed by: Julie Elliot