Glastonbury Tor

Glastonbury Tor from Wearyall Hill

Whether you subscribe to some of the more esoteric writings about Glastonbury Tor, there is no doubting that this striking hill rising above the Somerset Levels is a wonderfully atmospheric place, steeped in history and legend.

What to See

Glastonbury Tor stands at the eastern edge of Glastonbury village, looking down on the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey to the west. At the very foot of the Tor is Chalice Well, a medieval well reputed to have healing and spiritual powers.

The hill itself is ascended by way of a long path which switches back and forth up the slope. At the top is a 15th-century tower, all that is left of a medieval church dedicated to St Michael.

Glastonbury Tor is reputed to be the mystical 'Isle of Avalon'; the place where King Arthur was taken after his final battle, to recover from his wounds, and prepare to rise again in his country's hour of greatest need.

Glastonbury Tor is an open-access site, which means that visitors are free to ascend the Tor to enjoy an unforgettable sunrise or sunset. For excellent views of the Tor, try ascending the neighbouring hill, Wearyall Hill, said to be the site where Joseph of Arimathea landed at Glastonbury.