Travelling is not just about sharing what you see behind the lenses of your camera or smartphone. It’s about getting into the culture of a people and the history of a country and their people, for example.
Learning something new on a trip journey and sharing what you believe many should appreciate about it is an essential part of the whole experience. At least for me. This way, I looked with a different eye to Glastonbury when I visited this beautiful town for the first time.
Where is it?
While its famous festival works as a business card to the town itself, it’s clear the history of Glastonbury built its reputation as a mystical city some centuries ago.
I spent just a few hours there, but it was enough to do so much, including a visit to one of the most important sites in the region: Glastonbury Abbey. Or what remains of it.
If you would like to improve your knowledge of the fascinating history of Britain, this 10th-century abbey, located in Somerset, is an essential site to stop by for a visit.
This church was enlarged in the 10th century by the Abbot of Glastonbury, St. Dunstan, who became the Archbishop of Canterbury in 960.
To start with, it is said that Glastonbury Abbey is the final resting place of King Arthur. And it’s fascinating to see King Arthur’s and Queen Guinevere’s supposed tombs.
There is no chance of getting bored with around when you imagine the legend of King Arthur may be real and, part of it is preserved here!
I have been to Glastonbury Abbey on a hot and beautiful summer day. Perfect for sightseeing the ruins of Grade I listed building with no rush. It`s a huge spot. Be prepared to spend some time walking around there.
And it’s walking through this amazing archaeological treasure that we get a gist of how the features of a Saxon church were transformed into this magnificent abbey by Normans. But it is not just that.
Like nature’s big playground needs to be, the site has also a museum, a gift shop and plenty of space for picnics, the abbey grounds include a gift shop, fish and duck ponds, a cider orchard, picnic and wildlife area with a badger boardwalk!
History at Glastonbury Abbey is told theatrically as well. A very popular form of keeping kids entertained there. Spring and summer are the seasons to make the most of the special events on this site. Check here for more information.
Some (extra) tips to visitors:
- Wear comfortable shoes but be aware the site has different levels which make it dangerous. Especially when it rains;
- Get a map of the visitor’s centre before exploring the abbey. They provide guides in several different languages;
- It’s a huge attraction and your ticket is valid for the whole day, so plan your visit by taking food and beverages for kids, for example. Or get some extra cash to eat something in the coffee shop;
- You can take pictures on the site, but don`t be over the board trying to climb the ruins to try the best shot. It’s dangerous! Remember: It’s a historical site, not an amusement park.
- Dogs are welcomed when kept in the lead.
