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Glastonbury Where History Meets Mystery

Embark on an enchanting journey

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Discover Glastonbury

Unveiling the Magic of Glastonbury

A Journey Through Time

Glastonbury, a town shrouded in mystique and legend, beckons travelers to unearth its rich tapestry of history. This ancient haven, often associated with the fabled Isle of Avalon, is a mosaic of cultural and spiritual landmarks. As you stroll through its quaint streets, you're treading paths once walked by Druids and Kings. The echoes of the past resonate in every corner, from the legendary Glastonbury Abbey ruins to the whispering old oaks of Glastonbury Thorn. Here, every stone and stream tells a story, inviting you to become a part of its enduring legacy.

Mysticism and Modernity Intertwined

In Glastonbury, the mystical seamlessly merges with the modern, creating an atmosphere that’s both enigmatic and welcoming. Beyond its historical allure, the town vibrates with a contemporary pulse. Art galleries, eclectic shops, and organic cafés line the streets, each offering a unique glimpse into the town's creative soul. The fusion of ancient traditions and new-age philosophy gives Glastonbury a distinctive character. Whether you're exploring the sacred geometry of the Glastonbury Tor or enjoying a tranquil moment by the Chalice Well, the town offers a spiritual journey that captivates the heart and enriches the mind.

Mystical Sites

Mystical Sites of Glastonbury

The Towering Sentinel

The Wellspring of Legends

Ruins Whispering History

The White Spring

Nature and Walks

Embracing the Natural Splendor of Glastonbury

Nestled within the lush landscapes of Somerset, Glastonbury invites nature enthusiasts and wanderers alike to explore its serene beauty. This region, known for its rolling hills and verdant fields, is a haven for those seeking a retreat into nature. The meandering trails lead you through a tapestry of flourishing flora and fauna, revealing the unspoiled charm of the countryside. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a leisurely walker, Glastonbury's trails cater to all paces and preferences. From the tranquil waters of the River Brue to the wildlife-rich Avalon Marshes, each step is an opportunity to connect with nature's wonders.

Beyond the beaten paths, Glastonbury's rural landscapes are a patchwork of ancient woodlands, open meadows, and picturesque orchards. The changing seasons paint the town in different hues, offering a fresh perspective with each visit. Springtime blossoms, summer's lush greenery, autumn's golden tones, and the crisp air of winter create a year-round spectacle. These natural settings are not just a feast for the eyes; they're a sanctuary for the soul. Here, in the heart of nature, you can unwind, reflect, and rediscover the simple joys of the natural world.

Celebrating the Vibrant Tapestry of Glastonbury's Culture and Heritage

Glastonbury's culture and heritage are as rich and diverse as its history. this town is a melting pot of traditions, arts, and folklore, weaving together the threads of ancient practices and modern expressions. here, the rhythm of drumbeats from local festivities mingles with the quiet contemplation in historic chapels. glastonbury's streets are lined with galleries showcasing local art, shops brimming with handcrafted items, and cafes where tales of lore are shared over a cup of tea. the town is not just a place to visit; it's an experience that immerses you in a cultural journey that spans centuries., youtube video.

Local Culture and Heritage

A Mosaic of Tradition and Creativity in Glastonbury's Culture and Heritage

In the heart of Somerset lies Glastonbury, a town where history and creativity converge to create a vibrant cultural tapestry. This town is not just defined by its legendary past; it's a living, breathing hub of artistic expression and cultural richness. As you wander through the winding streets, you're greeted by a kaleidoscope of experiences - from the melodic strums of street musicians to the colorful displays in local art galleries. Glastonbury's culture is a dynamic blend of old and new, where ancient traditions are celebrated with a modern twist. The town's heritage is etched into its very fabric, from the historic architecture to the folklore that has been passed down through generations.

Glastonbury's cultural scene is as diverse as its history is long. Here, every corner tells a story, whether it's through the medieval charm of the Abbey ruins or the contemporary vibrancy of a music festival. Local artisans share their crafts, ranging from hand-woven textiles to bespoke jewelry, each piece a testament to the town's creative spirit. The aroma of traditional cuisine fills the air, offering a taste of Glastonbury's rich heritage. Annual festivals and events bring the community together, celebrating everything from the town's mystical roots to its agricultural heritage. In Glastonbury, culture is not just observed; it's experienced, lived, and cherished.

Plan Your Visit

Planning your visit to Glastonbury is an exciting venture into a world where history and enchantment intertwine. This mystical town, nestled in the heart of Somerset, is not just a destination; it's an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Start by mapping out your journey to this ancient land, where every route leads to discovery. Whether arriving by train, bus, or car, the journey itself is part of the adventure, with picturesque countryside unfolding around each bend. In Glastonbury, accommodation options range from cozy bed and breakfasts to boutique hotels, each offering a warm welcome and a unique charm. Be sure to book in advance, especially during festival seasons, to secure your ideal stay.

Once in Glastonbury, immerse yourself in the town's rhythm. Take time to explore the local attractions at your own pace, whether it's a leisurely walk up to the Tor, a reflective moment at the Chalice Well, or a stroll through the bustling market streets. Glastonbury is a town best explored on foot, allowing you to fully absorb its magical atmosphere. For dining, the town boasts an array of eateries, from traditional pubs serving hearty English fare to cafes offering organic, locally sourced dishes. Don't forget to check out the town's event calendar; Glastonbury is renowned for its festivals and cultural events, which add an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Remember, Glastonbury is more than just a place to see; it's a place to be. Let its mystical allure guide your journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Glastonbury (Somerset, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Glastonbury (Somerset, England)

Stranded among the drained marshes and peat bogs of the Somerset Levels, Glastonbury is a town on dry ground below the mysterious Glastonbury Tor hill.

For a millennium Glastonbury was the scene of an abbey of serious power, still impressive nearly 500 years after it was suppressed and left in ruins.

The abbey has spellbinding Gothic architecture, and there’s an array of separate monuments, from a remarkable Medieval kitchen to a historic pub, all with ties to the old monastery.

Glastonbury swirls with Christian and Pagan folklore, and draws a big new age and Neo-Pagan community.

That hill, Glastonbury Tor is a National Trust site with natural springs rising from deep within its rock, and huge rings of terraces on its slopes, built for reasons that are still unknown.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Glastonbury :

1. Glastonbury Festival

A mainstay of the UK’s summer festival season, Glastonbury is a world-famous performing arts event that sprang from the counter culture of the late 1960s.

A lot has changed since the first free festival almost 50 years ago, not least in the price of tickets and how quickly they sell out.

Tickets go on sale as early as October, eight months before the event takes place at the end of June, while the lineup is normally announced around February.

On this farm a few miles east of the town, there’s comedy, dance, a theatre & circus, art installations and market stalls across a world of different areas, where you could spend the whole weekend simply wandering around.

But then you’d also miss out on the stellar, multi-genre music, covering rock, electronic, soul, reggae, jazz and almost anything you can think of.

The event is known for raising vast sums for charities like Water Aid, Oxfam and Greenpeace.

2. Glastonbury Tor

Venerated since the Iron Age, Glastonbury Tor is an isolated sandstone hill over the Somerset Levels.

With almost precipitous slopes that have strange, man-made terracing, the hill crests at 158 metres and is topped by the roofless St Michael’s Tower, the last fragment of a 14th-century church torn down in the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

It was during this event in 1593 that the Abbot of Glastonbury Abbey, Richard Whiting was hanged, drawn and quartered here for treason due to his loyalty to Rome.

The Tor is claimed to have been the site of Avalon from the Arthurian Legend, and so is thought to be the location of the Holy Grail.

In the Pagan Celtic tradition it has been mooted as a gateway to the fairy realm of Annwn.

Those terraces have aroused curiosity for hundreds of years, as it’s not known whether they were used for crops, defence or as some sort of sacred labyrinth for pilgrims.

3. Glastonbury Abbey

Although now an enigmatic ruin, you can’t overstate the power that Glastonbury Abbey wielded in Medieval times.

Until it was dissolved in violent fashion, the abbey had massive landholdings around Somerset and its impact can still be felt today.

For one it helped drain portions of the low-lying Somerset Levels, but its monks also spread the idea that Glastonbury was Avalon and that King Arthur was buried here (you can even see the purported site of his tomb). Founded in the 600s, the site grew steadily over the next 500 years and its great church was rebuilt in the Early English style after a fire in the 12th century.

The towering ruins of the transept convey just how imposing this building would have been.

Even in its state of ruin, the Lady Chapel is held as one of the UK’s great Early English monuments for its highly decorative chevrons and capitals with floral patterns.

4. Abbot’s Kitchen

The largest monastic building intact at Glastonbury Abbey, the Abbot’s Kitchen is an amazing slice of Medieval history dating back to the 1300s.

This is one of the world’s few surviving Medieval kitchens, built with an octagonal footprint and a pyramidal roof in the time of Abbot John de Breynton (1334-1342). First, it gives a sense of just how well the Abbots lived, but the technical details are also interesting.

The kitchen is configured like a giant chimney, with smoke from four big fireplaces conducted up to an opening in the roof, while clean, cool air from other openings would descend to the kitchen’s floor.

One reason the Abbot’s Kitchen has stayed intact is because not long after the Abbey was dissolved this building was used as a meeting house by Glastonbury’s Quakers.

5. Somerset Rural Life Museum

On an idyllic farm around a 14th-century barn, this museum chronicles the history of Glastonbury’s everyday people and has just reopened after a £2.4m makeover.

That barn is Grade I listed, and was a “tithe barn” belonging to the abbey and used to store wheat and rye.

In the neighbouring farmhouse are galleries going into themes like crafts, education, folk festivals and remembrance customs for the dead.

The courtyard and barn have all sorts of old-time equipment for farming, fishing, digging peat, willow coppicing and producing cider, milk and cheese.

There are also interpretation boards labelling the farm’s historic buildings, as well as a cider apple orchard, a beehive and rare poultry and sheep breeds.

6. Chalice Well

Issuing from the ground near the foot of Glastonbury Tor, Chalice Well is also known as the Red Spring for the reddish hue that comes from iron oxide deposits.

These waters have been visited for more than 2,000 years and are believed to have healing properties.

You can get there in 10 minutes or so from the centre of Glastonbury.

The well itself is covered with a wood and wrought-iron cover made in 1919. From there the water cascades down a terrace into two circular pools, all embedded in sweet landscaped gardens.

From these pools there’s a meandering stone channel through the lawn.

Take a seat on a bench and contemplate the red waters, flowers and neatly trimmed shrubs.

And if you visit outside opening hours there’s a tap outside connected to the well.

7. White Spring

Over Well House Lane from the Chalice Well is another natural spring rising from the depths of the Tor.

What’s interesting is that where the Chalice Well has a red hue for its iron content, the White Spring (as the name tells you) is white for its calcite.

The White Spring is housed within a “water temple”, which is actually a vaulted Victorian well house constructed to maintain a constant flow after a cholera outbreak.

The well house is maintained by a group of new age volunteers who attribute healing qualities to the spring.

As with the Chalice Sell, there’s a tap outside, but you may like to go into the candlelit sanctuary to check out the new age imagery.

8. Glastonbury Tribunal

Looked after by English heritage, the Glastonbury Tribunal is a 15th-century merchant’s house with a slightly later Tudor facade.

Inside, the ground floor is a tourist information centre, but if you go upstairs is the Glastonbury Lake Museum run by the local antiquarian society.

The building has lots of riveting period details, like a Tudor Rose and coat of arms of Abbot Richard Beere (1493-1524) above the entrance.

It has been suggested that the building was used as the abbey’s court.

The rear room on the ground floor has ceiling panels, plasterwork and a window from Elizabethan times.

Under the arched braced wooden trusses in the museum upstairs you can ponder artefacts from a nearby Iron Age village.

Make sure to see the bronze Glastonbury Bowl, which was cast in the Iron Age, but then reworked with a new base in the 1st century.

9. George Hotel and Pilgrims’ Inn

An enchanting Gothic building, the George Hotel and Pilgrims’ Inn is thought to be the oldest purpose-built pub in the South West of England.

The George Hotel and Pilgrims’ Inn dates from around 1439 and was established to put up pilgrims visiting Glastonbury Abbey.

On the High Street take a minute to survey the facade and its three storeys of narrow, traceried windows, capped with castellations.

Above the portal you can make out the coats of arms of both the abbey and King Edward IV (1442-1483). Go in for a drink at the bar, or a meal under creaking Medieval wooden beams in a room warmed by a Tudor fireplace.

10. St. Margaret’s Chapel and Almshouses

On Magdalene Street, this Scheduled Ancient Monument is slightly withdrawn from the road down a close, so is easy to miss.

Once belonging to a hospital, the chapel dates to the start of the 14th century and is in a complex of buildings that went up around a century later.

With the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the hospital was turned into almshouses.

The single-room chapel was completely restored in 2012 and is open daily for visits.

Outside is an adorable garden, framed by high walls and with borders ablaze with colour in spring and summer.

You can step inside one of the dwellings in the almshouses, humbly decorated as it might have been in the 19th century.

11. The Shoe Museum, Street

The shoe brand, Clarks was founded close by in the town of Street in the 19th century.

The Clark family were Quakers, who had a presence in the town since the 17th century.

And in the Quaker tradition, when the factory became mechanised in the 1860s the Clarks ensured that the whole town benefitted from their successful business.

They built a school, library, theatre and even an outdoor pool, as we’ll see later.

Although production has moved abroad, Clarks is still headquartered in Street.

Close by is the Shoe Museum, which opened in 1950, covering the 200-year history of the brand and displaying some 1,500 shoes.

You’ll learn how shoemaking machinery has progressed, view historic posters and ads, and tour the history of footwear, beginning in Roman times.

12. Ham Wall Nature Reserve

Out on the damp, low-lying Somerset Levels to the west of Glastonbury is a wetland reserve managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). The ponds and reedbeds at Ham Wall used to be peat workings, which became redundant in the 20th century and were turned into a nature reserve in the 1990s.

Ham Wall is thronged with wildlife, and the stars are the bitterns and egrets that have chosen the reserve as a breeding ground.

Another year-round resident is the bearded tit, while hobbys can be sighted in summer and large numbers of starlings congregate in the reedbeds in winter.

Non-avian species to look out for include otters and noisy Iberian water frogs, and there’s a magical view over the wetlands to Glastonbury Tor.

13. Clarks Village, Street

In 1993 the old Clarks factory buildings were reworked to house the first ever purpose-built factory outlet in the UK. With its paved walkways, glass canopies, landscaped gardens and flowerbeds, Clarks Village doesn’t look much like a mall.

But there are more than 90 brands to be found here, like Levi’s, Calvin Klein, Timberland and The North Face, as well as a large Clarks factory shop that has discounts of up to 60% off the retail price.

There’s fashion, beauty and cosmetics, accessories, sportswear, homewares and a great deal more, all matched by a choice of UK high street eateries like Prezzo and Pret a Manger.

14. Greenbank Pool

Another Clark initiative, this lido in Street opened in 1937 to provide somewhere for its employees to swim.

Up until then most people bathed in the River Brue, which was a problem for women as many men would swim in the nude.

More than 80 years later the pool is a source of pride for the town, with an elegant Art Deco entrance.

If you’re searching for a family activity on a summer’s day, there’s a shallow area for children, as well as a small splash park with a slide and fountains.

The Greenbank Pool is heated and opens seven days a week throughout the year, with an extra half-hour evening session for grown-ups to swim in peace.

15. West Country Carnivals

Long after the Glastonbury’s more famous festival has packed up, a far older and perhaps kitschier celebration comes to town.

In the weeks after Guy Fawkes Night (5 November) a travelling parade of brightly lit themed carts (floats) visits towns all over the West Country.

This tradition goes back to 1605 and has its origins in Bridgwater, where a local Catholic priest had a hand in the gunpowder plot.

Glastonbury (19 November) may be the prettiest place to catch this spectacle, in which these privately funded carts might be based on movies, scenes from history, children’s stories, current pop songs or places around the world.

There’s always upbeat music and an accompanying troupe of gaudily dressed dancers.

15 Best Things to Do in Glastonbury (Somerset, England):

• Glastonbury Festival
• Glastonbury Tor
• Glastonbury Abbey
• Abbot's Kitchen
• Somerset Rural Life Museum
• Chalice Well
• White Spring
• Glastonbury Tribunal
• George Hotel and Pilgrims' Inn
• St. Margaret's Chapel and Almshouses
• The Shoe Museum, Street
• Ham Wall Nature Reserve
• Clarks Village, Street
• Greenbank Pool
• West Country Carnivals

Glastonbury Information Centre

The Glastonbury Way

The Glastonbury Way has been developed to include places of pilgrimage  in our countryside and key locations in our town centre. 

Comprising a walk of approximately seven and a half miles, the route has been created using the existing long-standing rights of way that have been used for centuries. Green lanes and permissive paths have been included in the route as well as the High Street and primary roads of the town centre.

Pilgrimage is at the heart of Glastonbury, so this walk can also be a way of mindfully supporting your wellbeing and your spiritual development- the growth of love, compassion and connection. It can be helpful to set an intention before you walk.

The walk can be done in one day or in sections over a number of days.

To help you find your way, and to find all the sites of pilgrimage, a map leaflet is now available at the Glastonbury Information Centre for £2 or download The Glastonbury Way App to turn your smart phone into your own personal guide. 

New bespoke benches are strategically placed for resting with a view and fifteen interpretation boards are placed throughout the route so you can read about the history, myth, landscape, spirituality and legend of Glastonbury and the surrounding countryside. All text is in large print and the boards are positioned to be accessible to all.

Download the app

The Glastonbury Way app is now up and running! Search for The Glastonbury Way on iPhone App Store and Android Google Play.

We want as many people as possible to enjoy the Way. The working group for the project dedicated time, thought and funding to improve the route to make it as accessible as possible within the limitations of the existing terrain. Stiles have been replaced with kissing gates; stone tracks laid where previously there was deep mud. 

Although the physical access will be greatly improved, the hills of Glastonbury and the off-road nature of much of the Glastonbury Way means that wheelchair access remains a challenge on some of the route. We are aware that more still needs to be done to improve accessibility for different groups of people still not catered for sufficiently.

To that end, we are planning identification of routes with greater accessibility and to produce a map with the most accessible public spaces, and most accessible routes.

We encourage everyone to discover and explore the Glastonbury Way.

We hope you enjoy learning more of the history, myth, landscape, spirituality, and legend here in this green and pleasant land.

Respect • Protect • Enjoy • Respect • Protect • Enjoy • Respect • Protect • Enjoy

Respect Others

Consider the local community. Leave gates and property as you find them. Follow paths but give way to others where it narrows. Protect the natural environment. Refrain from BBQs or fires. Leave no trace of your visit, take all your litter home. Enjoy this special space.

Walking Your Dog

Dogs, this walk also takes you around the farming landscape. Please protect the animals by being constantly aware and keeping dogs on leads at all times. Don’t forget to “bag it, bin it”.

Flora & Fauna

The lighting of tea lights and candles is an ongoing threat to our flora and fauna. One of our ancient oaks was set on fire through carelessness. Also, metal containers left in the countryside are harmful to farm animals and wildlife and do not biodegrade. Please be thoughtful.

A centre of pilgrimage

Since time immemorial, people have journeyed to Glastonbury to immerse themselves in a deep cauldron of legend, romance, myth and history. A centre of pilgrimage for millennia, this small Somerset Market town is a powerful magnet drawing people from different walks and paths of life, from all over the world.

Pilgrimage is a wide-ranging topic, touching on many aspects of human existence and signifies not only a physical journey to a special place, but also an inner spiritual journey. 

The experience can lead to a process of spiritual growth, transforming the deepest aspects of the human spirit. For some people Pilgrimage acts as a rite of passage, for others it involves seeking spiritual and/or material rewards.

Journeying to a place of special significance plays a part in almost all cultures and religions. The goal may be a site given prominence by particular events, the shrine of a saint or other significant figure, or a remarkable geographical feature.

You may find it helpful to speak to a member of the Pilgrim Reception team in the Glastonbury Information Centre about your experiences or to ask any questions about spirituality in Glastonbury.

Pilgrimage motivated by spiritual belief is still very much alive in the 21st Century.

It usually involves:

• Journeying alone or in a group
• Reaching a destination
• Encountering special rituals
• Objects geographical features and architecture
• Enjoying particular experiences and benefits
• Returning home

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Top Attractions

Glastonbury Information Centre 1 Magdalene Street Glastonbury Somerset BA6 9EW

Monday – Sunday, 10am – 3pm

01458 333144

Website Design by Tor New Media, Glastonbury, Somerset

We've moved!

You can now find us in the Small Hall within the Town Hall. The Town Council Reception, Tourist Information and the Pilgrims Reception look forward to seeing you!

The current Glastonbury Information Centre building is currently being renovated as part of the Town Deal.

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Glastonbury

Glastonbury is situated on the low-lying Somerset Levels, some 30 miles (48 km) south of the city of Bristol. In times gone by, this area of Somerset was flooded in winter by a marshy sea. In summer the water levels would fall allowing settlers to move about more freely and graze their animals. The inhabitants of this region became known as "the summer people", hence the county name "Somerset". It was in this marshland on a sector of higher, drier ground that Glastonbury sprang up.

Glastonbury Town (viewed from the Tor) © TAB

The town appears to have been inhabited since the Neolithic age and a Christian community is thought to have existed from the earliest days of the Church in this country. The Saxons built the first stone church around 712 AD, the Saxon king Centwine being the first supporters of Glastonbury Abbey. It became one of the most important abbeys in Britain and in 1016 was chosen for the coronation of Edmund Ironside. The success of the town continued to be linked with the unbroken importance of the abbey until the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII. After this, the abbey fell into ruins but the town itself continued to thrive as a commercial centre.

Today, Glastonbury lives on as a tourist attraction, the ancient buildings and unique atmosphere continuing to draw visitors from all over the world. The legendry visit of Joseph of Arimathea, who is supposed to have planted his staff in the ground, which then miraculously flowered into the Glastonbury Holy Thorn, continues to draw pilgrims and curiosity seekers.

The town has also been identified with the legendary Isle of Avalon where King Arthur is said to be buried. These stories and the region's spiritual ambiance have led to the town becoming something of a centre for the New Age religion. The town contains many interesting old buildings associated with the abbey such as the Tribunal, the George Hotel and the Pilgrims' Inn. The Somerset Rural Life Museum is housed in the old tithe barn. The Church of St John the Baptist dates from the 15th century.

The world's largest music event The Glastonbury Festival is held each year at Worthy Farm, Pilton, just east of Glastonbury.

Content by B Benney

Places of interest to visit in Glastonbury

Glastonbury abbey.

Glastonbury Abbey has been a place of pilgrimage since the Middle ages. Resting place of Saxon kings and of the legendary King Arthur. The Visitor's Centre contains a model of the Abbey as it would have looked in 14th century and also displays the splendid 16th century Othery Cope.

Opening times: all year (closed Xmas), daily from 9am (10am winter) Admission Charge Location: Magdalene St, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 9EL - Tel: 01458 832267 - Website Facilities: parking (nearby charged), gift shop, cafe, guided tours

Glastonbury Tor

As you would expect from this area, the hill has many associated myths and legends and is said to be the home of Gwyn ap Nudd, the Celtic Lord of the Underworld and a place where the fairy folk frolic. The Tor is owned by the National Trust and there is free access to the public at all times. It can only be reached on foot from a car park on the edge of town.

The Lake Village Museum

Located on the first floor of the Tribunal, the Lake Village Museum depicts life in an Iron-Age settlement some 2000 years ago, when large areas of Somerset were covered by marshes. The actual site of Glastonbury Lake Village is 3 miles (5 km) North West of Glastonbury but there is nothing to be seen there today. The village is thought to have been built around 300 BC and occupied until around 100 AD. It was then abandoned, possibly due to a rise in the water level. It was built on an artificial foundation of timber filled in with brush wood, bracken, rubble and clay.

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13 Best things to do in Glastonbury

Disclaimer: this is a sponsored in partnership with Buses of Somerset. This post contains affiliate links, should you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, although I receive a small commission which goes towards the upkeep of this blog.

Did you know there is currently a £2 single fare cap on the no.77 Buses of Somerset route? The bus starts at Yeovil bus station and finishes its journey in Wells, stopping at places in Ilchester, Somerton, Compton Dundon, Street and Glastonbury. To the delight of my vehicle-loving two year old, we took a family bus adventure for a day out around the colourful, mystical town…

Most people have heard of Glastonbury festival, it’s beamed into our homes every year (although I must admit I can never watch – especially if it’s sunny, as the FOMO just takes over!), but how many know the sleepier, mystical – yet no less whacky – Somerset town?

Steeped in legend, mythical folklore permeates almost every facet of the town, captivating hordes of visitors throughout the centuries, and making it one of the most intriguing destinations in the county. Having devoted a significant portion of my younger years longing to be a hippy, Glastonbury very much speaks to the yin and yang loving, tie-dye floaty, rainbow colour-appreciating parts of me. I often take my crystal-obsessed daughters to scour the shops there, much to their delight.

In addition to its boho soul, Glastonbury is an extremely picturesque spot, full of fascinating buildings and rural heritage, set against the backdrop of the iconic Tor. Whether you’re following ley lines or searching for the Holy Grail, seeking historical ruins or sensational views, looking to entertain the kids, or just after a vibrant day out, Glastonbury’s eclectic, non-conformist environs offer a unique Somerset adventure. Once you’re in the town, much of it is walkable and handily, it’s well-connected to Yeovil, Wells and Bristol by bus.

Here are some of the best things to do in Glastonbury:

What to do in Glastonbury

1. climb glastonbury tor.

Climbing the iconic Glastonbury Tor is a Somerset must-do activity and makes an exciting adventure for families. The conical hill – whose spiritual connections are linked to Arthurian legend, the Holy Grail, leyline energies and Jesus himself – rises dramatically out of the flat Somerset levels, with a 14th century church tower at its peak.

It’s a steep, short climb to the top, where you’re rewarded with sweeping 360 degree views over Somerset’s green and pleasant lands. Or, you can extend your walk further, and take a circular route up from the town via Dod Lane, following sign posts past Avalon Orchard, to a zigzagging path up the ‘back’ of the hill.

This way, you get the return journey down the main path, with what feels like the whole of Somerset laid out before you.

More information about Glastonbury Tor

2. Drink the water at Chalice Well

Located at the foot of Glastonbury Tor, Chalice Well – also known as the Red Spring –  is a spiritually significant spot that makes for a peaceful peruse.

One of the UK’s most ancient wells, people have been coming here for over two thousand years to drink the waters of this natural spring – sample some yourself from the lion head fountain.

According to Christian mythology, Chalice Well marks the site where Joseph of Arimathea hid, buried or washed (depending on which story you read) the Holy Grail that caught Christ’s blood, and as a result, the waters flowed red (the iron content of the water gives it a distinctly reddish appearance).

Whether you believe the legend or not, it’s a beautiful sanctuary, with flower-filled gardens that are separated into ‘rooms’, and copper-red spring waters flowing throughout. 

More information about Chalice Well

3. Seek out over 50 murals on the Glastonbury street art trail

If grey UK skies have left you feeling in serious need of an injection of colour, Glastonbury provides a vibrant antidote. As well as its quirky buildings painted in a rainbow of colours, the town has a mural trail, with over 50 (and counting) visual masterpieces by local artists in its outdoor gallery.

Not only is it fun to seek out the eclectic collection, but you’ll no doubt discover some weird and wacky corners of Glastonbury you’ve never seen before. 

Download a trail map here , or pick one up for free from Glastonbury Information Centre .

4. See the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey

The extensive 12th century ruins of Glastonbury Abbey sit within 36 acres of parkland in the centre of town. As with many sites here, the history surrounding the abbey is enshrined in ancient myth, more so than any other abbey in England.

Since Medieval times, it has held legendary status as the earliest Christian foundation in Britain linked to Joseph of Arimathea, and is thought to be the burial place of King Arthur. 

According to the story, Joseph of Arimathea came here with the chalice, or Holy Grail from the last supper, possibly accompanied by Mary Magdalene or Jesus himself – and wearily planted his staff in the ground on what is now Wearyall Hill. The staff grew into the Holy Thorn Tree that now has venerated offspring across the town, including inside the abbey grounds.

This tale, which also gave rise to the Jerusalem’ hymn, connects through Holy Grail themes to King Arthur and Queen Guinevere, whose ‘burial spots’ are designated within the abbey.

Kids’ admission is free at Glastonbury Abbey – each paying adult can bring two children free of charge. Check their website for events and activities that take place all year round.

Bus tip: the no.77 bus stops at Glastonbury Town Hall, right outside the entrance to Glastonbury Abbey.

5. Browse Glastonbury’s quirky shops

The abundance of crystal, witchcraft and New Age shops scattered throughout the old market town streets adds to Glastonbury’s enchanting aura. With chalk mandalas etched on the ground and a whiff of incense in the air, the main high street and its eccentric alleyways are particularly fun to explore.

Shop windows brim with technicolour clothing, vintage finds, gemstones, dreamcatchers and floaty hippy attire, with names like The Wonky Broomstick, Fairyland Aromatics, Goddess Temple Gifts, ‘Man, myth and Magik’ above the door. And barely a chain store in sight.

6. Check out Somerset Rural Life Museum

Located just below Glastonbury Tor, Somerset Rural Life Museum examines the rich social and agricultural history of Somerset from the 1800s onwards. Delve into the county’s heritage to learn more about the landscape, food, farming, working life and rural crafts, then explore the cider orchard and magnificent 14th century Abbey Barn. During school holidays there are often family arts and crafts activities to get involved with.

7. Set your eyes to the skies at RSPB Ham Wall

Between November and February, mesmeric starling murmurations can be seen nearby above the RSPB reserve at Ham Wall and Shapwick Heath’s Avalon Marshes . Murmurations are when starlings gather in their tens of thousands, then swoop and dive in unison like a shoal of fish, creating mind-boggling aerial choreography. 

Find out where they roosted the night before by calling the Starling Hotline on 07866 554142. But be warned, there is no guarantee they will be visible there on the night you visit. Murmurations can start an hour or so before sunset, so wrap up warm and arrive early – RSPB Ham Wall advises getting there by 2pm to spot other birdlife on the reserve beforehand and beat the crowds. 

If you’re visiting outside of these months, there’s plenty of wildlife to spot thanks to the care that is taken to create the ideal conditions for animals, minibeasts and wetland birdlife. Visitors will find over 3 miles of trails, viewing platforms and hides, a children’s playground, plus a variety of habitats – reedbeds, open water, woodlands and grasslands conceal otters, water voles, a third of the UK’s population of bitterns (of the heron family), kingfishers and more.

The main track is wide, with a raised hard surface, and is a local cycle path. Ham Wall Loop: 2 miles (3 km), takes about 1.5 hours, circular walk from the car park following a scenic trail along Glastonbury Canal. Other trails include Walton Heath: 1 mile, Loxtons Marsh Trail: 0.75 mile and the Boardwalk Trail: 200 m circular boardwalk.

• Getting here : Free admission, car park £3 for non-members. 
• The nearest bus stops are: Meare – 1.5 miles (2.4 km) away – 668 service, Ashcott – 2.5 miles (4 km) away – 75 or 29 services. The walk to the reserve from both villages is along fast single-track roads with no pavements.

8. Cycle the Bittern Trail

Running through the Shapwick Heath and Ham Wall nature reserves between the town of Glastonbury and the Avalon Marshes Centre, The Bittern Trail is a family-friendly, mostly traffic-free cycling and walking trail through four miles of the Avalon Marshes.

The easiest way to navigate is to download the The Bittern Trail Map or for longer routes, check out the four Heritage Cycling Routes here.

9. Pop to Wells on the bus

The number 77 bus picks up passengers outside Glastonbury Town Hall and along the Old Wells Road, and can deposit you in the medieval city of Wells in around 15 minutes for a cost of just £2 (kids under 15 go free).

There you can marvel at the famous 850-year old Wells Cathedral – a sight to behold inside and out, travel back in time at Vicar’s Close, a cobbled cul-de-sac containing 27 650-year old, intact Grade 1 listed houses, wander through the gardens of Bishops Palace and potter through its age-old streets.

It’s a really affordable, convenient and fun (especially if you’re a toddler!) way to travel between these two deeply historic places.

10. Go to the park

Ok, not necessarily one of THE main reasons to go to Glastonbury, but if you’re visiting the town with kids it’s handy to know there are a couple of lovely playgrounds near the town centre and the Tor.

Abbey Park Playground is, as the name suggests, close to Glastonbury Abbey and has the ruins (albeit over the top of the fence) as its backdrop. Another, on the temptingly titled ‘Cinnamon Lane’, is looked over by the Tor and is not far from the main path that leads up the famous hill.

11. Walk the Glastonbury Way

The Glastonbury Way has been developed to include places of pilgrimage, countryside and key parts of the town centre. Totalling around seven and a half miles, the route can be taken on by experienced walkers looking for some serious rambling, as well as those after more gentle exercise, or simply wanting to explore the town. The walk can be done in one day or in sections over a number of days.

A map leaflet is available at the Glastonbury Information Centre for £2 or you can download The Glastonbury Way App.

• Download the app here for android
• Download the app for iPhone

12. Experience a wassail

Wassailing has its origins in Anglo-Saxon traditions, originally taking place on Twelfth Night (originally the 17 January, before the introduction of the Gregorian Calendar in 1752). Rooted in pagan practices, the centuries-old ritual aims to ‘awaken’ the apple trees from their winter slumber. The ceremony involves blessing the orchards, reciting incantations, dancing, singing traditional songs and clattering pots and pans to scare away evil spirits, ensuring a plentiful apple harvest in the coming autumn.

As Somerset is apple/cider country, and pagan rituals are familiar territory for Glastonbury, there are of course several places to take part in a wassail in the town.

Check out Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury Abbey (Abbey Cider is made from apples grown in the orchard here), Alfred Gillet Trust, Street.

For more wassails taking place around Somerset, click here .

13. Attend Glastonbury Festival

The famous festival doesn’t really need any explaining, but I can’t not mention the world’s largest greenfield music and performing arts festival. Everyone should go at least once. If you can get tickets that is! You’ll need to be registered well in advance to be in with a chance of getting tickets, and then several devices being refreshed continuously when the ticket sale goes live.

Glastonbury Festival is not only a music lovers’ paradise, it’s also a 24-hour city of entertainment, with everything from cinema to circus, art and performance on offer for five days straight. 

Getting to/around Glastonbury on public transport

Buses of Somerset operate 40 bus routes around the county and this winter, they are encouraging locals to say SAY BUS!

The no. 77 bus starts at Yeovil bus station and finishes its journey at Wells Bus station, stopping at Ilchester, Somerton, Compton Dundon, Street and Glastonbury. In Glastonbury, the bus stops right in the town centre and is a really convenient, not to mention great value way of travelling around Somerset.

As part of the Help for Households initiative, there is currently a £2 single fare cap on this bus route ( more details here ). The deal extends into the whole of Somerset – get a single ticket anywhere in the county and it will cost you just £2. It’s an absolute bargain given the price you’d pay for petrol or parking.

Check out the full timetable and route map here .

The no. 376 bus (otherwise known as The Mendip Xplorer) connects Glastonbury with Bristol and also has a £2 single fare cap on the route – outstanding value!

Plan your journey with Buses of Somerset

Want to explore more of somerset by bus.

If the sound of cheap bus fares to get you round the county sound dreamy, you should also know that in the Taunton town zone, all single tickets are now just £1 (!) per journey.

The £1 single fare can be paid on buses by contactless devices (bank card, smartphone or smartwatch). If paying by cash and to help bus staff, it’s appreciated if the exact fare is tendered.

Find out more about this deal on the Buses of Somerset website

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