Surrounded by myths and legends, Glastonbury Tor is a tall hill near Glastonbury in the county of Somerset. Here’s all the info for visiting.
How To Get To Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury Tor is located just to the east of the town of Glastonbury in the county of Somerset in south west England.
By Car:
If you are on the M5, between Bristol and Exeter, you can turn off at Bridgewater. From here it’s just a 30 minute drive to Glastonbury Tor.
From Bath it’s just under an hour drive (27miles) on the A367. Or from Bristol it’s also about an hour (27 miles) on the A37 and then onto the A39.
There is no parking at the Tor but the nearest car park is at Draper and Co on Chilkwell Street. This is only a 2 minute walk away and charges are £3 for 2 hours and £5 for all day.
By Foot:
From the town of Glastonbury it’s a 10 minute walk to reach the base of the Tor. There is then a choice of two main paths up the hill, one steeper than the other.
Walking from Glastonbury town, you will come to the steeper climb that can take up to an hour. The bus from Glastonbury Abbey drops you at the the shorter walk which is about 15 minutes.
By Bus:
The National Trust provide a bus from Glastonbury Abbey. This will drop you at the base of the hill on the north side.
A seasonal Park & Ride (not National Trust) operates from Glastonbury Town Centre – BA6 9EW.
By Tour:
For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.
If you’re based in London, the From London: Glastonbury and Cheddar Gorge Guided Day Trip visits Glastonbury Tor and other main attractions.
Glastonbury Tor Entrance Fee
It’s free to visit Glastonbury Tor.
Glastonbury Tor Opening Times
Open every day, all year round.
Best Time To Visit Glastonbury Tor + Tips
This is a popular tourist attraction so can get pretty busy. Early or late in the day, especially during holidays and weekends, is best if you want to avoid the crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes for the steep climb.
There are a few benches here and there if you need a rest on your way up.
With no facilities at Glastonbury Tor, you might want to take some refreshments with you.
There are plenty of places to sit, relax and take in the amazing views and atmosphere. So if it’s a nice day, why not take a picnic as well.
What To Pack
History Of Glastonbury Tor
Tor is the Celtic name for a cone-shaped hill. This clay, limestone and shale hill was formed when softer deposits surrounding it were eroded, leaving the hard cap of sandstone exposed.
Some Neolithic flint tools found at the top of the Tor, indicate that the site has been visited since prehistory. Also artefacts dating from the Iron Age to Roman eras have been found.
Also, evidence suggests that during the late Saxon and early Medieval period there were several buildings at the summit.
A wooden church that once sat on top of the Tor was destroyed by an earthquake in 1275. Following which, the stone church of St Michael was built in the 14th century.
It’s likely that the Church of St Michael on the Tor was a daughter-house of Glastonbury Abbey.
Topping the hill now is the roofless, St Michael’s bell tower (a grade 1 listed building). The bell tower has been restored and partially rebuilt several times.
The Tor is mentioned in Celtic mythology, particularly in myths linked to King Arthur, with them believing it was a gateway to the underworld. There are also several other enduring mythological and spiritual associations.
In addition, natural geomagnetic lines (ley lines) come together at Glastonbury. Consequently, this attracts lots of people with various beliefs to Glastonbury Tor and the surrounding area.
What To Expect At Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury Tor is the highest of the hills surrounding Glastonbury at 158 metres. The entire site is now managed by the National Trust and has been designated a Scheduled Monument.
The National Trust recommend the shorter route to the top of the Tor (via Wellhouse Lane). This route has a smooth concrete path with a gradual incline and takes about 10-15 minutes.
This route also takes you past the Chalice Well, said to be the burial place of the Holy Grail!
Once you reach the top of the Tor you are rewarded with amazing panoramic views across the Vale of Avon. On a clear day you can even see as far as south Wales.
In addition, you can take a look inside the remains of St Michaels church tower. If you look up you will see where the roof and bell would have once been.
Many people say there is definitely a mystical/magical feel to the Tor and it gives them goosebumps when they visit.
I would definitely recommend climbing Glastonbury Tor. Not only to see for yourself if there’s a mystical vibe but also for the amazing views and historical interest.
Where To Stay In Glastonbury
Luxury – The Crown Hotel
Located in Glastonbury, The Crown Hotel provides accommodation with a restaurant and a bar, and free WiFi.
The property is located 26.7 miles from Bath Spa Train Station, 26.7 miles from Cabot Circus and 26.7 miles from The Roman Baths.
At the hotel, the rooms have a wardrobe and a flat-screen TV. At The Crown Hotel every room has bed linen and towels.
Mid-Budget – The Glastonbury Townhouse
Situated in tranquil Glastonbury, with easy access to the picturesque Somerset’s countryside, The Glastonbury Townhouse offers 4-star accommodation with free Wi-Fi and free parking.
Each room at The Glastonbury Townhouse boasts an en suite bathroom with free toiletries, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and tea/coffee making facilities.
A hearty breakfast is available daily in the dining room which opens into the garden. Guests can enjoy cooked breakfast, eggs, cereals, and fruit juices. Evening meals are available to larger groups booking in advance.
Glastonbury’s busy town centre, featuring independent shops, historic buildings, cafés and bars, is 5 minutes’ walk away.
Budget – Camelot Retreat
Camelot Retreat is located in Glastonbury and has a meditation room and a TV lounge. Guests have access to the garden and the shared kitchen.
The property overlooks Glastonbury Tor and meadows. Free WiFi is available throughout.
Each room has access to the two shared bathrooms. You will find tea and coffee making facilities in the room.
Guests are welcome to use the spiritual books and meditation lounge which has healing crystals from around the world. Spiritual therapies are also available.
For more places to stay in Glastonbury, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
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