Glastonbury
Nestled in the heart of Somerset, England, Glastonbury is a town that exudes an air of mystery and enchantment. Known for its rich history, spiritual significance, and legendary tales, Glastonbury attracts visitors from all over the world who are eager to explore its ancient sites and immerse themselves in its mystical atmosphere.
The Legend of King Arthur
One of the most enduring legends associated with Glastonbury is that of King Arthur. According to local lore, Glastonbury is the fabled Isle of Avalon, where Arthur was taken to heal after his final battle. In 1191, monks at Glastonbury Abbey claimed to have discovered the graves of King Arthur and his queen, Guinevere, marked by a lead cross inscribed with “Here lies Arthur, king.” This discovery drew pilgrims and solidified Glastonbury’s connection to Arthurian legend.
Joseph of Arimathea and the Holy Grail
Another captivating legend ties Glastonbury to Joseph of Arimathea, the man who, according to the Bible, buried Jesus after the crucifixion. Legend has it that Joseph traveled to Glastonbury, bringing with him the Holy Grail—the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper. It is said that Joseph planted his staff in the ground at Glastonbury, which miraculously blossomed into the Glastonbury Thorn, a tree that still blooms twice a year.
Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury Tor is perhaps the most iconic landmark in the town. This hill, topped by the tower of St. Michael’s Church, is shrouded in myth. Some believe it to be a gateway to the Otherworld, a place of ancient rituals and Druidic practices. The Tor is also linked to the legend of the Holy Grail, with some suggesting it was hidden within the hill. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, offering a glimpse into the mystical landscape that has inspired countless tales.
The Abbey and Its Mysteries
Glastonbury Abbey, once one of the richest and most powerful monasteries in England, is now a picturesque ruin that continues to captivate visitors. The abbey is said to be the burial place of King Arthur and Guinevere, adding to its allure. The site is also associated with early Christian legends, including those of St. Patrick and St. David. Walking through the abbey grounds, one can almost feel the weight of history and the whispers of ancient stories.
The Isle of Avalon
Glastonbury’s association with the Isle of Avalon is central to its mythical identity. Avalon, often depicted as a paradise of eternal youth and beauty, is believed to be the final resting place of King Arthur. The name “Avalon” is thought to derive from the Welsh word “afal,” meaning apple, and Glastonbury’s landscape, once surrounded by water, would have appeared as an island. This connection to Avalon has made Glastonbury a focal point for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and a deeper connection to the past.
Glastonbury is a town where history and legend intertwine, creating a tapestry of stories that continue to enchant and inspire. Whether you’re drawn by the tales of King Arthur, the mysteries of the Holy Grail, or the spiritual energy of the Tor, Glastonbury offers a unique journey into the heart of myth and magic. Visit this charming town, and you might just find yourself believing in the legends that have shaped its identity for centuries.
A Glastonbury Walk
There is plenty of parking around the town centre of Glastonbury, but like all tourist destinations, it pays to get there early. I start this walk from the small car park on Butts Close, which a short walk to the High St. Glastonbury High St is an interesting place. It is dominated by the St John the Baptist’s Church and many ‘New Age’ shops, including some lovely Bookshops. I do like exploring the shops and the wide range of products from incense, to crystals, clothes, Jewellery and alternative items. Don’t forget to explore the little lanes and alleys that run off of the High St as well. These shops, and the New Age culture, are very much part of Glastonbury fabric and experience.
Near the bottom of the High St is the wonderful 15th Century ‘George and Pilgrims’ pub. I like to pop in here when I visit for a drink or some food, just to absorb the atmosphere. Just to mention that Glastonbury has a range of excellent Vegan eateries on the High St as well.
At the bottom of the High St we see the Market Cross of 1846 and follow the road around to the left and onto Magdalene St towards the Abbey.
Glastonbury Abbey Explored
One of the legends that surrounds Glastonbury is that Joseph of Arimathea came here with the Holy Grail (also know as the Chalice). He is said to have buried the Chalice on the Tor and to have built the first Church in England where the Abbey now stands. Another legend says on an earlier visit to Glastonbury Joseph brought his young nephew, Jesus. This claim was later immortalised in a poem in 1808 by William Blake:
And did those feet in ancient time,
Walk upon England’s mountains green:
And was the holy Lamb of God,
On England’s pleasant pastures seen!
Later added to music by Sir Hubert Parry and orchestrated by Sir Edward Elgar, it remains as the popular hymn ‘Jerusalem’.
The earliest evidence of a church here dates from the Saxon period of 700AD. Another legend linked to the Abbey is the claim that they found the grave of King Arthur there in 1191. They then reinterred him inside the Choir of the Abbey. The Abbey was later destroyed in 1539 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries by King Henry VIII following his break from Rome.
From the Abbey we follow Magdalene St South (turn left out of the Abbey) and follow the road to the Tor. The final stretch of road, between the roundabout and the Tor, has some amazing old houses which add to the ambience.
The Glastonbury Springs
There are two springs at the foot of Glastonbury Tor, seen by many as healing springs. These are known as the Red and White Springs. It doesn’t matter what order you visit in, I visited the White Spring on my way up the Tor and the Chalice Well and Gardens (Red Spring) on my way back to town. The water from both springs is drinkable if collected from the identified spots.
The White Spring is located on Wellhouse Lane just up from the path to the Tor. It is always best to check the website but at time of writing it opens Tuesday to Friday 1:30pm to 14:30pm, then at weekends its 1:00pm, to 5:00pm. It closes on Monday. The White Spring in housed inside an old Victorian Well House and is candle lit, so quite dark. It has more of a temple feel and is a special place for many visitors. You are not permitted to use technology or take photographs inside. It is a place for reflection, prayer and healing. The centre of the Spring is the bathing area, and most people bath naked here. Around the sides are many shrines to the old / New Age Gods and Goddesses such as Cernunnos and Brigid and areas for quiet prayer. There is no charge to enter but there is a collection tin for voluntary contributions.
The Red Spring is situated in the nearby Chalice Well and Garden. This is a beautiful outdoor location maintained by a Trust, who described the gardens as a living sanctuary and World Peace Garden. It certainly is a beautiful place. The paths lead to secluded areas with many places to sit and reflect in amongst the beautiful flowers. Here is the famous Chalice Well, which has been in use, in its current form, since the 12th Century. The waters here are rich with iron and run red, linking them to the legend of the Holy Grail (Chalice) and the Blood of Christ. The well itself has an area for reflection and is is adorned by the symbol of Vesica Piscis, representing the dissolution and union of polarities. Nearby by is the Lion’s Head spring from which the waters can be drunk. You can buy a bottle on your way in.
Glastonbury Tor
The crown of Glastonbury has to be the famous Tor. The main path from the town is on Wellhouse Lane and this takes you through a small kissing gate and onto the main ascent. It is a little steep in places and can be windy up there! On my last visit I walked off of the path and onto one of the terraces, although at time of visit I found this a bit tough going. It was overgrown with stingy nettles and in the clear area not quite flat, so put a bit of pressure on the ankles. The Tor rises to a height of 158m above the Somerset Levels and is crowned by St Michael’s Tower, all that remains of a 14th Century Church. Items from as long ago as the Iron Age have been found on the Tor. In early history the Somerset Levels were flooded, further supporting the link between Glastonbury and the Tor and the legendary Ynys yr Afalon, or Isle of Avalon. Other legends has it as the entrance to the underworld, and the burial place of the Holy Grail (Chalice). The Tor is also a place of death, for here in 1539, when King Henry VIII dissolved the Monasteries, the last Abbot of Glastonbury Abbey, Richard Whiting, and two of his Monks were hung, drawn and quartered.
This is a popular spot in Glastonbury and, at times, not as peaceful as some of the other locations. It attracts a wide range of people; tourists and sightseers, Pilgrims and Pagans. The area around the tower is the most busiest and people tend to wander off to the slopes if they want some reflection. The views around Somerset are simply stunning.