Top 5 things to see and do in Glastonbury, U.K.
Top 5 things to see and do in Glastonbury, U.K
Glastonbury is a small rural town in the county of Somerset, U.K. situated 30 miles south of Bristol. The town, of about 9000 people, is known for its history, myths and legends as well as the the world famous Glastonbury Festival that takes place in the nearby village of Pilton.
The Glastonbury Festival
The Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts is the largest music and performing arts festival in the world. The festival is a celebration of contemporary music, dance, comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret and many other arts. It takes place over the last weekend in June near the village of Pilton 15 minutes drive from Glastonbury town. For more information see www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk
Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury Tor was founded in the seventh century, and was a rich and powerful monastery in Glastonbury. It became associated with the legends of the Holy Grail and King Arthur in the tenth century as the Isle of Avalon. Today it is a popular tourist and pilgrimage site, easily accessible with a short walk leading to the tower at the summit of the hill. The views from the Tor are some of the best in Somerset.
The Chalice Well
The Chalice Well is a natural spring situated at the foot of Glastonbury Tor. The spring and surrounding gardens are owned and managed by the Chalice Well Trust. It is open 365 days a year, with admission from £1.60 for children to £3.25 for adults. It has been portrayed in mythology as a symbol of the female aspect of deity, with the male symbolised by the Tor. There is a small gift shop where various items including the bottled Chalice water can be purchased.
The Somerset Rural Life Museum
The Somerset Rural Life Museum, situated near the Tor, is a museum of the social and agricultural history of Somerset. The buildings of the museum surround a 14th century barn, which was once part of Glastonbury Abbey. The exhibits include displays of farming machinery from the Victorian and early 20th Century period. Also present are local crafts, including willow coppicing, peat digging on the Somerset Levels, and the production of milk, cheese, and cider.
Glastonbury Abbey
Glastonbury Abbey was founded in the seventh century. A rich and powerful monastery, it became associated with the legends of the Holy Grail and King Arthur in the tenth century. The ruins of the abbey and associated buildings are open as a visitor attraction, and like many parts of the town the abbey is a pilgrimage hotspot. An admission fee of £5 gains visitors access to walk the grounds and adjoining buildings including the final resiting place of King Arthur. There is a gift shop and tea rooms located on site. See www.glastonburyabbey.com for more information.
How big is the town of Glastonbury?