We live in a country that is filled with medieval ruins and castles, but few are as pretty as the one that sits just under two hours from Bristol over the border in Somerset. The village of Dunster has always proven popular with visitors thanks to it's picturesque historic streets.
And its unique, rich-filled history has persuaded many people to visit over the years, reports Somerset Live. Situated within the Exmoor National Park and located just a few miles away from the popular seaside resort of Minehead, it's the perfect destination for either a day trip or a longer break.
Dunster is filled with charming shop-fronts which sit side-by-side on cobbled streets. It's also home to the iconic church of St George and the famous Yarn market, built in 1605, is a must-see for all tourists.
READ MORE: One of the UK's prettiest towns is less than an hour from Bristol
There's also a water mill, the Tithe Barn and a host of listed buildings which add to the charm of the tiny village. But what really puts Dunster on the map as a tourist destination is stunning fairy tale castle on the hill which overlooks the village.
Its famous castle lies on the top of a steep hill called the Tor and has been so since the late Anglo-Saxon period. Over the centuries, the castle has seen its fair share of action, most notably during the First English Civil War, which began in 1642.
It was the fortified home of the Lutrells for over 600 years before it was remodelled in the 1870s to create the stunning country house which currently sits there today. In 1976 the castle was passed on to the National Trust, which operates it as a tourist attraction.
Tourists can also get a glimpse of what it was like living in the earlier centuries with the village’s annual show. It is an agricultural event on the castle grounds with a wide range of activities ranging from ferret racing to cattle parades.
It takes place every year in August, which means you have a bit of a wait on your hands if you were hoping to go.
Sign up for our What's On in Bristol newsletter packed with essential stories to help you make the most of living in the city.
Read next
The West Country twin seaside villages so beautiful - they've been dubbed ‘Little Switzerland’
England's best B&B is just a two-hour drive away from Bristol
