Why Visit Glastonbury Abbey?

Once the grandest Abbey in England, encompassing peaceful parkland, which covers 36 acres of Somerset and houses ponds, orchards and wildlife, proves to be a great visitor attraction all year round.

Welcome to Glastonbury Abbey:

Filled with visitor attractions, ancient monuments and churches, Glastonbury Abbey is bursting with history and legends.  The almost magical building attracts visitors from all over the globe, enthusiastic to learn about England’s history from this site, which is packed with the events of the past 2,000 years.

The legendary ruins of Glastonbury abbey draw tourists to take a trip back in time as they roam the grounds of this centuries-old site, where legend has it King Arthur and his wife Queen Guinevere are buried, although some claim that this is myth. To bring history to life the tour guides are dressed up in a variety of period costumes to join in with the fun, while the performers re-enact King Arthur’s court, kitchen maids demonstrate their daily duties and monks talk about life at the abbey. So if you’re interested in the history and architecture that the abbey has to offer its well worth a visit.

Glastonbury Abbey Location:

Glastonbury's town centre is small, but full with all sorts of fascinating independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Gradually more cosmopolitan style shops have started to appear, including beauty salons and more modern cafes, which are juxtaposition next to the traditional buildings lining the streets and can look slightly out of place. You'll find lots of small independent shops down little alleyways and in courtyards leading off from the High Street so make sure you do a bit of exploring to see all that Glastonbury has to offer.

Take the train or a bus to Glastonbury village. Train journeys from London Paddington take between one and a half and three hours to the nearest station, Castle Cary, from where you will have to take a taxi to Glastonbury. This route provides a more scenic journey, for those visitors looking to see more of the landscape.

Alternatively, you could get a train to Bath, Bristol Temple Meads or Taunton from where you’ll be able to take a local bus straight to the village, presenting an economic and cheap mode of transport. The National Express runs services to Glastonbury. Visitors should be aware that when the Glastonbury Music Festival is on the area gets a lot busier and transport may be harder to come by.

Local Information:

Every Tuesday, Glastonbury holds a market in the Market Place which sells fresh fruit and veg, fish, plants, clothing and craftwork. On the fourth Saturday of every month Glastonbury's Farmers Market takes place in St John's car park between 9am-1pm. So if you want to pick up some local produce there’s no place better and friendlier. 

Being so picturesque, the abbey and its rural surroundings is a regular setting for musical performances, outdoor plays and a romantic days out. Make the most of the free Park and Ride service offered if you’re coming by car. The car park is located in nearby Clarks Village. Take note of the time of the last shuttle back to the car park so you don’t risk missing the ride.

- K.N -