Visit the Abbey
Generally speaking people come to the Abbey for three reasons.
First, they want to see a living Christian sanctuary that may have been the site of the oldest church, and was certainly once the greatest Abbey, in the country. Second, they come because they want to see the possible burial place of King Arthur, but the third reason people come to the Abbey grounds is simply for peace and quiet. The relative seclusion of the 36 acres provides the perfect atmosphere for people who want to forget their hectic daily lives, and take it easy.
The tranquil settings of the Duck and Fish ponds allow visitors to get lost in their thoughts. They also provide ideal picnic spots. In addition, children can feed the ducks or run around in the lush expanse of open parkland whilst their parents take a well-earned nap under a suitable tree.
There are over 250 trees in the grounds, many of which have wooden seats or benches under them so guests can sit and ponder in peace, and in the shade. Once visitors leave the hustle and bustle of the Town and enter the Abbey grounds they move into a very different world where calm, beauty and above all peace are the orders of the day.
There is something for each season of the year. Snowdrops and Crocus in winter feature along the north path of the ruins. Over the past few years many thousands have been planted here. This is closely followed in Spring, by a dazzling display of Daffodils and later bluebells. At this point we should not forget the delicious apple blossom and its fragrance emanating from the cider orchard. Summer gives way to wildflowers and native grasses, which will be seen in the Orchard, along the Badger Boardwalk and in the wildlife areas. Lastly Autumn gives us spectacular colour on our many trees; comprised of many deciduous and evergreen varieties.
The Grounds – Glastonbury Abbey is set in 36 beautifully peaceful acres of parkland in the centre of the ancient market town of Glastonbury.
Many believe that the Holy Thorn tree that can be seen in the grounds originated from the staff of Joseph of Arimathea. Others are convinced that King Arthur and Queen Guinevere are buried in the Abbey grounds. Whatever one believes, the facts are that the ruins are unique. The grounds provide a spot of peace and tranquillity in an otherwise hectic world.
The new Visitor Centre with its award winning Museum, featuring a model of the Abbey as it might have looked in 1539, together with a display of the town; a Children’s Display and the magnificent 16th century Othery Cope is an excellent place to visit.