Pictures of Glastonbury

About Glastonbury

This little town now enjoys world renown for its annual music festival which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the globe. None-the-less, this still remains very much a town that is steeped in mystical myths and legends.

Glastonbury Tor rises majestically to reach a height of 520ft and legend has it that this is the place where the Holy Grail is buried. It is also said that it is here that Joseph of Arimathea founded the first Christian church known in Europe and it is believed too that Glastonbury is the burial place of King Arthur and Lady Guinevere. Infact, where-ever you go in this quaint little town there is much evidence of a long association with King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.

The Abbey ruins are well worth visiting as this very atmospheric site dates back to the 12th-13th century.

There are several old inns in and around the town, also some fabulous little shops all selling a vast array of articals
that range from souvenires to high quality leather goods for which this area is also well known. Some of the best know English boot and shoe manufacturers have factories nearby. Hunt around and you are sure to find a bargain.

Not very far from Glastonbury is the peaceful village of Pilton which is home to the Manor House that was once the summer residence of the Abbots of Glastonbury. Other attractions are a lovely old tythe barn and a very beautiful church.

For a trip into the past this ancient area is certainly a must.

Interesting & Historical Facts about Glastonbury

The tower you see at the top of Glastonbury Tor is all that remains of St Michaels Church, which was built in the 14th century but demolished during the 'Dissolution of the Monasteries' in 1539, all except for the church tower that still stands today. An earlier church, built of wood and also dedicated to St Michael, stood on the site until 11 September 1275 when it was detroyed by a mighty earthquake thats epicentre was believed to be around Portsmouth (120km) or Chichester (140km)

Glastonbury facts | Somerset facts