Things To Do
in Glastonbury
Glastonbury is a historic town located in Somerset, United Kingdom. It is known for its spiritual and mystical significance, attracting visitors interested in alternative lifestyles and beliefs. The town is famous for Glastonbury Tor, a hill with ancient ruins at the top, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Glastonbury also hosts the popular Glastonbury Festival, one of the largest music festivals in the world, held annually on a nearby farm.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Glastonbury Tor, where you'll hike to the top for spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
Head to the Chalice Well Gardens to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Take some time to explore the ancient well and the lovely flora around it.
Finish your day with a hearty meal at a local pub and perhaps enjoy some live music. The warm ambiance of Glastonbury's nightlife will wrap up your day nicely.
Begin with a visit to Glastonbury Abbey, an iconic historical site. Explore the ruins and learn about the legends that surround this ancient monastery.
Visit the Glastonbury Museum to delve deeper into the local history and culture. Exhibits showcasing the town's rich heritage will provide insightful knowledge.
Dine at a cozy restaurant, sampling local dishes and possibly meeting locals. Post-dinner, take a stroll through the town and enjoy the quaint atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and vibrant arts scene
- World-renowned music festival attracting artists and visitors
- Beautiful countryside and scenic landscapes
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
- Variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants
- Can be crowded during festival times
- Expensive accommodation and high costs during events
- Potential for unpredictable weather, especially during festivals
- Limited public transport options
- Tourism can sometimes disrupt local life
Best Activities in Glastonbury
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Climb the iconic hill for stunning views and explore the historical ruins of St. Michael's Tower.
Discover the beautiful gardens and the sacred well that is said to have healing properties.
Enjoy scenic walking trails through wetlands, home to diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Join the famous music and arts festival held annually, featuring a wide range of performances and activities.
Visit the historic ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, once a significant religious site in England.
Take advantage of the flat landscapes to enjoy cycling through picturesque countryside.
Enjoy the unique atmosphere of this sacred site, featuring a natural spring with mineral water.
Join a retreat in the tranquil setting of Glastonbury, focusing on mindfulness and relaxation.
Go for a walk or hike to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the town of Glastonbury.
Participate in organized walks to learn about local flora, fauna, and the area's rich ecology.
Tours
Uncover the best of Glastonbury with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Glastonbury
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic hill topped by the iconic Tor, offering panoramic views of the Somerset Levels and beyond. The climb provides multiple vantage points for breathtaking photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Located at the summit of Glastonbury Tor, this ancient tower offers an impressive backdrop for photos. The surrounding landscape creates a stunning tableau, particularly in the golden hour.
A tranquil gardens and holy well known for its beauty and serene atmosphere. The unique features, including the red spring water, make for picturesque photography opportunities.
The ruins of this historic abbey provide scenic backdrops with their ancient architecture juxtaposed against verdant gardens. Ideal for capturing the essence of Glastonbury's history.
Set amidst beautiful countryside, the museum showcases local history and heritage, with charming scenes perfect for photography, especially during seasonal events.
Another sacred site in Glastonbury, featuring the natural spring surrounded by stone structures. The mystical atmosphere is perfect for capturing ethereal images.
Known for its quirky shops and character, the hustle and bustle of the High Street offers vibrant street photography opportunities, particularly during festivals and markets.
A short drive from Glastonbury, the Levels provide expansive marshlands and picturesque rural views. Field and wildlife photography is particularly rewarding in this area.
Food in Glastonbury
Glastonbury Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender pork cooked in flavorful Somerset cider, a local specialty. Try it at Abbey Tea Rooms.
Must-Try!
A classic English dish featuring Cheddar cheese, crusty bread, pickles, and salad. The Who'd A Thought It Inn serves an exceptional version.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Glastonbury better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Tuesday, this market offers a wide selection of organic produce, artisan bread, locally produced cheese, and more. Don't miss the gourmet street food stalls offering delicious dishes from around the world.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Familiarize yourself with and respect the local customs and traditions of Glastonbury. This includes understanding the significance of local landmarks and being mindful of community practices.
When interacting with locals, engage politely and with an open mind. A friendly demeanor and willingness to listen can help facilitate respectful conversations and foster positive interactions.
Contribute to the local economy by supporting local shops, markets, and restaurants. This not only shows respect for the community but also enhances your experience by immersing you in local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Glastonbury with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Glastonbury
Ensure a smooth experience
In Glastonbury, as in the rest of the UK, tipping is generally appreciated, although not compulsory. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% if the service is not included in the bill. Tips are also appreciated by taxi drivers and in bars, where rounding up the bill or leaving change is common. However, tipping may vary based on the service received and personal discretion.
Payment practices in Glastonbury align with broader UK norms, where cash and card payments are widely accepted. Most establishments accept major credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are increasingly common, especially for smaller transactions. It's worth noting that some smaller shops and markets may prefer cash, so carrying some is advisable. Additionally, digital payment options like mobile wallets are also becoming popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Glastonbury.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit Glastonbury as the gardens and surrounding countryside burst into bloom. Expect mild temperatures and an array of flowers, including daffodils and bluebells. The town is less crowded compared to summer, making it a peaceful time for exploring attractions like Glastonbury Abbey and the Tor.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Glastonbury, attracting visitors for festivals and events, including the famous Glastonbury Festival in late June. Expect warm temperatures and lively crowds, along with vibrant street markets and outdoor activities. However, accommodation prices may be higher, and popular attractions can be busy.
Autumn (September to November) offers a quieter experience in Glastonbury with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the scenery without the summer crowds. The town hosts various harvest events and local festivals, providing a glimpse into the community’s culture.
Winter (December to February) is the least crowded season in Glastonbury. Expect cold temperatures, occasional frost, and shorter daylight hours. However, the town is magical during the holiday season with festive decorations and markets. It's an ideal time for those seeking tranquility and introspection, as well as opportunities to explore local history without the hustle and bustle.
Glastonbury at Night
Hiking in Glastonbury
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A hill topped with the iconic St. Michael's Tower, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a range of hiking trails.
A scenic area featuring well-marked paths with beautiful views and diverse wildlife, ideal for a peaceful hike.
A series of stunning hills to the south of Glastonbury, known for their lush landscapes and extensive walking trails.
A wetland area with various walking routes that provide a chance to see a variety of birds and local flora.
An expansive lowland area offering flat trails and scenic views, perfect for leisurely walks and observing nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Glastonbury through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Glastonbury by plane.
The nearest major international airport, located approximately 18 miles southwest of Glastonbury. It serves many domestic and European flights.
Located about 45 miles south of Glastonbury, this airport caters primarily to regional flights but also offers some international services.
Situated approximately 50 miles west in Wales, Cardiff Airport provides international flights to various destinations.
Located around 125 miles east of Glastonbury, Heathrow is one of the busiest international airports in the world, serving numerous global destinations.
Located about 135 miles southeast of Glastonbury, Gatwick is another major international airport with extensive flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Glastonbury, including people born in England and identifying as White British.
Includes White Irish, White Gypsy or Irish Traveller, and other White backgrounds.
Individuals identifying as belonging to more than one ethnic group.
Includes Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian backgrounds.
Includes individuals of Black backgrounds, such as African, Caribbean, or other Black backgrounds.
Includes individuals who do not fit into the aforementioned categories, such as Arabs or other ethnic identities.
The Soul of Glastonbury
Discover the essence of Glastonbury through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Glastonbury, with many local clubs and community teams participating at various levels.
Cricket has a strong following in Glastonbury, featuring local clubs that compete in various leagues and promote the sport among youth.
Rugby is also popular in the area, with clubs that cater to different age groups and skill levels, fostering a strong community spirit.
Athletics is encouraged through various local events and clubs, promoting fitness and competition among residents of all ages.
Cycling is a favored activity due to the scenic routes and trails around Glastonbury, popular among both casual riders and competitive cyclists.
Petanque is a traditional sport that has seen interest in Glastonbury, with local groups playing in parks and community areas.
Badminton is played recreationally and competitively in local clubs, appealing to individuals and families alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Glastonbury.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Glastonbury caters exceptionally well to vegetarians and vegans, with most eateries offering a variety of plant-based options. Look out for the 'V' or 'VG' symbols on menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can dine with ease in Glastonbury, as many restaurants and cafes provide gluten-free choices. Staff are usually knowledgeable about allergens and can offer guidance.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Glastonbury with these cultural adventures.