Exploring Glastonbury
There’s nowhere quite like Glastonbury. Set in the heart of the Somerset Levels, it weaves together myth, magic, and history—from Arthurian legends and Celtic lore to sacred springs and medieval ruins. This mystical town continues to draw pilgrims, seekers, and curious minds to explore its spiritual charm and ancient roots. Explore Glastonbury from London with us!
The Histories and Mysteries of Somerset Levels
There’s nowhere quite like Glastonbury down in the Somerset Levels. While many places boast a ‘hippy vibe’ or a long religious history, Glastonbury uniquely blends Celtic Pagan religions, Arthurian myths, early Christian history, and modern neo-pagan lore.
This distinctive mix draws visitors from around the world for seasonal festivals like Beltane and Samhain (May Day and Halloween). Glastonbury also holds Viking connections, as King Alfred the Great sought refuge in the Somerset Levels after Wessex was attacked by the Dane Guthrum.
Glastonbury Tor Through The Years
Towering above the town is the Tor, a prominent hill topped by the remaining tower of St Michael’s Church. A climb to the Tor rewards you with panoramic views over the Somerset Levels. This fertile landscape was once a sea, then a marsh, with Glastonbury Tor as one of many islands surrounded by a lake village. Wooden walkways once connected these islands. By the medieval era, monks had drained the land, creating the farmland seen today and shaping the modern town.
The White Springs and Chalice Well
At the Tor’s base lie two significant springs: the White Spring’s and the Chalice Well (or Red Spring). The White Springs’s milky appearance comes from water filtering through chalk, while the Red Spring’s reddish hue is due to iron content. At the Chalice Well gardens, you can experience the cascading spring first-hand, walking barefoot in its waters and drinking from the Lion’s Head spout.
Arthurian Legends and The Holy Grail at The Chalice Well
The mythology surrounding this spring is captivating. Legend says Joseph of Arimathea, who came to the west country as a tin trader and later to spread Christianity, arrived in Glastonbury with a cup containing the blood of Christ. He is believed to have established the first church here around AD 63. This tale is intertwined with Arthurian legends, suggesting the Chalice or Holy Grail is buried where the red spring emerges, its colour attributed to Christ’s blood – a more romantic explanation than ferrous rocks!
Celtic Spirituality at The White Spring
Just a short distance from the Chalice Well is the White Spring, steeped in Celtic mythology. Its waters are said to originate from the Sidhe, the underground realm of Gwyn, the King of the Fairies. This makes it a sacred and magical place for Pagans. If open, the White Spring well house is a must-see, featuring a large, candlelit pool for bathing and shrines to the Madonna, the Soul, Brigid (Goddess of Imbolc), and Gwyn. Ribbons tied around these atmospheric shrines represent wishes and prayers.
Glastonbury and Cheddar Gorge Guided Day Tour from London
From £89
Explore Glastonbury and Cheddar Gorge and go down the Cheddar caves. Adventure out of London into Somerset to areas full of history, legend & beautiful landscapes.
Glastonbury Thor and Abbey Origins
Legends continue within Glastonbury Abbey (entrance included in tour cost). The Abbey is said to be built on the very spot where Joseph of Arimathea thrust his walking staff into the ground, miraculously causing a thorn tree to grow. Since then, Glastonbury Thor trees have been cultivated at the Abbey, eventually sold in the gift shop, all supposedly descendants of that original staff. Every Christmas, a flowering branch from the Glastonbury Thor is presented to the Monarch.
The Rise and Fall of Glastonbury Abbey
Glastonbury Abbey became a major religious centre and a thriving Christian community until a devastating fire in 1184. During its rebuilding, monks allegedly discovered a grave containing the bodies of a man and a woman, with a lead cross proclaiming, ‘here lies King Arthur along with his wife Guinevere’. While this discovery cannot be verified today, it solidified the connection between Arthurian myths and Glastonbury, often identified as the Isle of Avalon. A marker within the Abbey grounds indicates the supposed location of this grave.
Exploring Glastonbury Abbey
Today, Glastonbury Abbey stands in ruins, a consequence of Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries Act in 1536. However, visitors can wander through the peaceful grounds and admire the remnants of this once magnificent cathedral. The Abbey often hosts events during the summer, such as archery and medieval re-enactments.
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Visiting Glastonbury High Street
Finally, a stroll along Glastonbury High Street is a must. Unlike typical high streets, here you’ll find shops selling Viking crafts, Pagan books, crystals, essential oils, and tarot and divining tools, catering to every mystical curiosity.
Visit Glastonbury: Experience the Magic
Join us between April and September on our Glastonbury & Cheddar Gorge tour to experience the unique and quirky charm of this remarkable town.
Kirsten Neil
Kirsten manages the Anderson Tours’ Scheduled Day Tours bringing experience from her early days as a guide. Her familiarity and interest in the destinations stems from experience and a passion for history, sharpened by taking courses at Oxford University’s Department of Continuing Education. With summer on the horizon, Kirsten recommends the upcoming seasonal tours, such as Glastonbury & Cheddar Gorge, and the lovely quirky Stonehenge & Avebury day trip.
Day trips from London & Private Group Tours
Join us on popular day trips from London and ditch the travel planning to focus on attractions you want to see. Learn about our Private Group Tours also!