Things To Do
in Glastonbury
Glastonbury is a historic market town in Somerset, perched on the edge of the Somerset Levels. It is famed for its legend of Avalon, the iconic Glastonbury Tor, and the atmospheric ruins of Glastonbury Abbey. The town blends ancient spiritual heritage with a lively village scene, hosting markets, inns, and cafés along its bustling High Street.
Visitors come for folklore, scenic walks, and a taste of southwest English charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Glastonbury and settle into your accommodation, taking a moment to enjoy the serene surroundings. Visit the Glastonbury Abbey, a historic site that dates back to the 7th century. Wander through the lush gardens and marvel at the ancient architecture.
Explore the quaint shops in the town center, where you can find unique gifts, artisan crafts, and spiritual items. Grab a light lunch at a local café, enjoying the delightful flavors of the region. Head to the Chalice Well and spend time in this tranquil garden known for its healing waters.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local eatery, savoring traditional British cuisine. As the sun sets, take a stroll around the town, absorbing the charming atmosphere under the evening sky. Perhaps catch a local music performance or a poetry reading to immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant culture.
Rise early and hike to the top of Glastonbury Tor for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The morning mist adds a mystical quality to the landscape as you ascend the hill. Spend some time at the St. Michael's Tower, learning about the history and significance of this iconic landmark.
Return to the town and enjoy lunch at a cozy café before visiting the Glastonbury Tribunal, a building rich with history. Engage with local historians to learn about the town’s past and its pivotal role in the region. Spend the late afternoon exploring the nearby town of Street and the Clarks Village shopping outlet.
Join a local ghost tour or a guided evening walk through Glastonbury, where tales of legends and folklore are shared. Experience the unique atmosphere as the town transitions into night, with twinkling lights illuminating the streets. End your day with a warm drink at a local pub, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Two-person meal at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) per night | $120-200 |
| 🍺Pint of beer in a pub | $5-8 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and spiritual heritage with iconic sights like Glastonbury Tor and the Abbey ruins
- Compact town with walkable streets, markets, and scenic countryside nearby
- Excellent for nature lovers: Mendip Hills, Wells, and easy day trips
- Strong local food and drink scene, especially cider and cream tea
- Limited nightlife options within town on non-festival nights
- Certain attractions can be crowded during festival periods
- Public transport can be infrequent compared with larger cities
Places to Visit in Glastonbury
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic hill offering sweeping views of the town and the Levels; a timeless photography subject at sunrise or sunset.
Atmospheric ruins set in tranquil grounds, ideal for moody, historic shots.
Historic water gardens with sacred wells, lush greenery, and calming textures for serene photography.
Timber-framed façades and market life provide characterful street photography opportunities.
Quiet riverside scenes and reflections, especially at dawn or dusk.
Food in Glastonbury
Glastonbury Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Somerset treat—scones with clotted cream and jam, best enjoyed in a traditional tea room.
Must-Try!
Locally pressed cider, often served in pubs and cider houses; great with pub fare and cheese plates.
Hearty pastries and simple, satisfying lunches commonly found in local pubs and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and a selection of street-food stalls.
Seasonal food stalls around the Market Place offering a mix of local bites and international options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line, keep noise moderate in public spaces, and wait your turn in markets and pubs.
Treat abbey ruins and Chalice Well with respect; quiet contemplation is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Glastonbury
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, rounding up or leaving a 10-15% tip at table-service restaurants is common if a service charge isn’t included. In pubs, tips are often small or optional.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless, chip-and-PIN, and mobile wallets (e.g., Apple Pay) are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Flowers in bloom around Chalice Well and street gardens; mild temperatures make walking pleasant. Festivals and market days begin to pick up.
Longer days and frequent outdoor events; be prepared for crowds around the Tor and Market Place. Light layers and sun protection recommended.
Harvest colors in local gardens and countryside; cooler days with a chance of rain. Perfect for tranquil countryside walks.
Shorter daylight hours and wetter conditions; cozy pubs and tearooms provide warmth. Pack a waterproof layer and sturdy footwear.
Glastonbury at Night
Hiking in Glastonbury
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular path leading to the Tor with rewarding views and photo opportunities.
Limestone hill country with rolling slopes and scenic vistas, suitable for day hikes.
Flat, marsh-side trails perfect for wildlife viewing and relaxed walks.
Airports
How to reach Glastonbury by plane.
Major international gateway about 40 miles from Glastonbury; accessible by road or coach services.
Smaller regional airport about 60-80 miles away; convenient for domestic and some European flights.
Welsh airport roughly within 2 hours’ drive; useful if combining with a broader southwest England itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major share of visitors arrive for the town’s historic sights and the area’s cultural events, especially during festival seasons.
Residents of the town and nearby villages, with a strong sense of community and local markets.
People drawn to the legends of Avalon and the historic abbey and chalice wells.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and amateur matches are common; easy to catch a community game in the area.
Cricket in the region is popular during summer; local grounds host weekend matches.
Rugby union and school-level matches are part of the local sports culture.
Several nearby courses offer scenic rounds in the Somerset countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Glastonbury.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Glastonbury has many vegetarian options; look for veggie pies, salads, and plant-based dishes in pubs and cafés; many venues can adapt dishes on request.