(Bank Holiday) Hiking Glastonbury: Land of Myths, Magic & Holy Grail Legend
About this Event
Home to the famous Glastonbury Music Festival, this town sits at fascinating crossroads of various religions and spiritualities – from Christianity and paganism to Druidism and witchcraft, and is unusually rich in legends and mythology. Glastonbury Tor, which we'll climb, took centre stage in the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games, celebrating the “idyllic, mythical England”.
Our 4-mile route will follow the Glastonbury Way around the town and its beautiful surrounding landscape, taking in the most significant sights. After the hike, you’ll have free time to explore Glastonbury’s weird and wonderful shops. This is the perfect place to browse for crystals (and learn about their healing properties), tarot cards, jewellery, lotions and potions, incense, herbs and even wizard hats and magic wands! 🌟🔮🃏The town is also home to more than 50 spectacular pieces of street art, with colourful murals decorating the centre and adding to Glastonbury’s vibrant, creative atmosphere.
This trip is suitable for BEGINNERS – a great way to experience hiking before joining our more difficult trips! 🤩
LEGENDS OF GLASTONBURY
There are many legends surrounding Glastonbury. Below are the most famous ones.
Jesus and Joseph of Arimathea
Jesus is said to have come to Glastonbury as a boy, travelling here with his uncle, Joseph of Arimathea. Joseph was a tin merchant and had travelled to England's south west for this valuable metal. After the crucifixion of Jesus, Joseph travelled to Britain with the Holy Grail (the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper), which he buried under Glastonbury Tor.
The Holy Thorn
Joseph is said to have arrived in Glastonbury by boat over the flooded Somerset Levels. On arriving, he climbed up Wearyall Hill (a 15-minute walk from Glastonbury centre). Exhausted, he thrust his staff into the ground and rested. By morning his staff had taken root and grown into a miraculous thorn tree, known as the Holy Thorn. A flowering sprig of the Holy Thorn is cut every year and presented to the monarch, where it resides on his Christmas Day breakfast table.
The Isle of Avalon and King Arthur
For many people, Glastonbury represents the Isle of Avalon, the mythical island of Celtic tradition, believed to be a gateway to the underworld. Glastonbury is said to be the final resting place of the legendary King Arthur.
DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY
Distance: 4 miles (7km).
Ascent: 220m.
Difficulty: Easy.
ITINERARY
07:45 Meet outside Hotel Novotel London West, 1 Shortlands, W6 8DR (a five-minute walk from Hammersmith Station)
08:00 Sharp departure
11:15-14:00 Hike to Glastonbury Tor, 2000-year-old oak trees of Gog and Magog and the White Spring
14:00-16:00 Free time for lunch and to explore Glastonbury's quirky shops
16:00 Departure
19:00 London, Hammersmith
TRANSPORT
As on most of our trips, we'll travel in a comfortable 16-seater minibus.
SAFETY
The hike is led by an experienced, Outdoor First Aid qualified hike leader.
BOOKING
You’re welcome to book and pay via Eventbrite. However, to get the best price and avoid the Eventbrite commission (around £7), we recommend booking directly through our Meetup page or emailing us at [email protected]
THE PRICE OF £78 INCLUDES
- Transport throughout the trip
- Experienced, professional PSV minibus driver
- Guiding on all hiking routes by an experienced and qualified Mountain Leader
- Professional event organisation
- Group first aid kit with qualified first aiders
- Admin fee
- 20% VAT
THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects, and personal trekking insurance)
HOW TO CONTACT US
For all enquiries, please email us at [email protected] We'll usually get back to you within 4 hours.
WHAT TO BRING
- Suitable hiking shoes with ankle support
- Sunscreen (if sunny)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers (if there is a chance of rain)
- Water (min 1L)
- Packed lunch (optional)
- Walking poles (optional)
- Gaiters (optional)
REVIEWS ⭐
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REFUND POLICY
Tickets purchased via Eventbrite are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable.
Agenda
🕑: 07:45 AM
Meet outside Hotel Novotel London West, 1 Shortlands, W6 8DR
🕑: 08:00 AM
Sharp departure
🕑: 11:15 AM - 02:00 PM
Hike to Glastonbury Tor, 2000-year-old oak trees and the White Spring
🕑: 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Free time for lunch and to explore Glastonbury's quirky shops
🕑: 04:00 PM
Departure
🕑: 07:00 PM
London, Hammersmith
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 85.21
