Yarn Market, Dunster

The Yarn Market is an octagonal timber-framed building roughly 9 meters across, with a central stone support holding up the roof at the center. The structure sits on its original cobbled stone floor and has mullioned windows set into each of its eight sides.

George Luttrell built this market hall in 1609 to shelter wool traders and give them a place to gather. During the Civil War it served as a defensive position for Royalist forces, leaving marks on the structure that remain today.

The building stands as a reminder of wool trading that shaped Dunster's economy, where merchants once gathered to buy and sell cloth made from Exmoor sheep. The structure reflects how textiles connected this small town to wider trade networks.

The building stands on High Street directly across from Dunster Castle, making it simple to find when exploring the town center. It remains accessible at all times since the open structure has no doors or enclosed spaces to restrict entry.

The slate roof still bears damage marks from cannon fire during the Civil War, visible if you look closely at the surface. These physical traces serve as a direct link to the day when this peaceful market space played a role in armed conflict.

Location: Dunster

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/dunster-yarn-market

GPS coordinates: 51.18460,-3.44426

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:05