


Climb the iconic Glastonbury Tor for panoramic views across Somerset countryside and explore this historic site free of charge, perfect for families with dogs.
Venue Type
Outdoor
Typical visit duration
All day
Booking
Walk-in
Recommended ages
0 months (newborn)+
Iconic Somerset landmark famous for its myths and legends. Whatever you believe, it'd be difficult not to enjoy the walk up this limestone hill, which stands a little over 500 feet above the Somerset Levels. Atop the hill is the tower of the church of St Michael. Dating back to the 15th century, it is the only surviving part of the church, and bears a metal plaque inside telling its story. The Tor's relative height compared to the low lying surroundings rewards those who make the ascent with fantastic views over Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire and Wales. The Mendip Hills provide an impressive backdrop to the north, with Wells Cathedral easily visible on a clear day. The exposed setting made it one of windiest places I've ever encountered, some people were genuinely having trouble standing up straight in the gusts, so don't wear a loose fitting hat! The nearest parking is behind the Draper factory, the daily charge isn't unreasonable and you can feel happy to be supporting a local business - pay inside with cash or card. The walk from here takes no more than 20 minutes, and while it's a fairly relentless ascent, the path is clearly marked and much of it has been surfaced to prevent excessive erosion. When I visited on a weekday morning in March it wasn't too busy, but I can imagine that might be a different story on weekends or during holiday season, so choose your time carefully if you don't want to follow the crowds. There's no charge to visit the Tor, and no facilities, but it's not a long walk into town. Glastonbury itself is a very colourful place with some equally colourful characters. The streets are lined with some fine historic buildings, and there's an impressive ruined abbey worth visiting.
Stunning views, I recommend making the hike to arrive at either sunrise or sunset. Highly recommend visiting White Spring to satisfy your thirst after making the trek.
We wanted to catch the sunrise from this Iconic site in Glastonbury Somerset UK. We arrived in Glastonbury around 5am Sunday morning, (there is a car park signposted at the Botton of the Tor, payable at the shoe factory) and walked up through the lower fields along the track and then the climb up. Please be careful as you walk in the dark, wise to have a head torch. The path is defined and there are also steps. Places to rest on the way. It's not a difficult climb but there are some steep parts. The reward are the amazing views that you see at Dawn, the low lying mist across the levels and the beautiful sunrise. This is surely the best time of day. There were just a few people there before us and at sunrise maybe 30+ people. This is a National Trust site. We have done this trip many times and will continue, as every time has something just a little different to offer. The weather, the perspective, the enjoyment.
Nice walk to the Tor. Took the meadow path to the steep approach going up (a bit muddy in places), and too the more gentle path down (towards Chalice Well) along the road. Views from the top not great (trying to rain/low clouds). It was a little misty, with lots of wind. Still, it was an interesting hike!
Even if you don’t believe in Ley Lines, there is no doubt this place holds an aesthetic and spiritual pull. The views of the green and rolling hills of England can stir a sense of patriotism in anyone with any sense of beauty at all. It is absolutely worth a visit. We were lucky to start our short climb in the rain only for it to clear up by the time we got to the top, so there were only a few of us to enjoy the warm summer day from the summit!
Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026
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This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026
