Glastonbury Tor loop from Glastonbury Abbey
Glastonbury Tor loop from Glastonbury Abbey
4.8
(50)
518
hikers
Glastonbury Tor loop from Glastonbury Abbey
01:21
4.78km
100m
Hiking
Begin your hike from Glastonbury Abbey, exploring the town before transitioning to peaceful pastoral landscapes and farmland. This moderate 3.0-mile (4.8 km) loop offers a rewarding experience, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete. The route's highlight is the ascent to Glastonbury Tor, where you will gain 333 feet (101 metres) in elevation. From the summit, you can admire the iconic St Michael's Church bell tower and enjoy expansive 360-degree views across the Somerset Levels. The blend of urban and natural scenery makes for a varied and engaging walk.
When planning your visit, be aware that the path leading up to Glastonbury Tor is steep and includes steps, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. If you bring your dog, remember to keep it on a lead, particularly around the Tor, due to the presence of grazing livestock. You should also prepare for potentially muddy sections, especially on Chalice Hill, so appropriate footwear is advisable. Starting your hike earlier in the day can help you avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
This trail uniquely blends urban exploration with significant natural and spiritual landmarks. As you walk, you will experience Glastonbury town before heading into the surrounding countryside. The journey culminates at Glastonbury Tor, a site renowned for its historical and mythical associations. This route offers a chance to connect with both the local culture and the serene natural environment of the Somerset Levels.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions. Check ahead to confirm restricted segments are open to the public.
After 4.23 km for 404 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.83 km
Glastonbury Tor
Highlight • Climb
Tip by
2.18 km
Glastonbury Tor
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
4.42 km
Site of King Arthur's Tomb at Glastonbury Abbey
Highlight • Monument
There's a charge to access the abbey ruins and the tomb. Tickets can be bought online.
Tip by
4.78 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.51 km
892 m
879 m
381 m
103 m
Surfaces
1.49 km
1.33 km
1.09 km
381 m
366 m
113 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 6 May
16°C
7°C
15 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to complete the Glastonbury Tor loop from Glastonbury Abbey?
The loop is approximately 4.8 km (3 miles) long and generally takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views and exploring the sites.
What is the difficulty level of this hike?
This hike is rated as moderate. While much of the path includes paved sections, gravel paths, and concrete steps, the ascent to the summit of Glastonbury Tor is steep and can get your heart rate up. Benches are available for breaks during the climb.
Where does the trail start, and what are the parking options?
The trail typically starts from Glastonbury Abbey in the town center. There are various public car parks available in Glastonbury town, which are usually paid. Specific parking at the Abbey itself might be limited or for visitors only, so check local signage.
Is the path to Glastonbury Tor accessible for everyone, including those with pushchairs or wheelchairs?
Due to the steepness and steps, especially on the ascent to Glastonbury Tor, the path is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the loop?
The route features a mix of terrain, including paved sections, gravel paths, and concrete steps. Some parts, particularly on Chalice Hill, can be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
What is the best time of year to hike this loop?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round. In winter, you might witness starling murmurations at nearby nature reserves. The vibrant green grass of Glastonbury Tor contrasts beautifully with dramatic skies throughout the year. Clear days offer the best panoramic views.
What historical and natural landmarks will I see along the route?
You'll encounter significant sites like Glastonbury Abbey, the tranquil Chalice Well Gardens, and the iconic Glastonbury Tor with its distinctive St Michael's Tower. From the Tor's summit, you'll get breathtaking 360-degree views across the Somerset Levels.
Does this route connect with any other official trails?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the National Byway, Bittern Trail, Hanover Square, Cinnamon Lane, and Paradise Lane.
Is the Glastonbury Tor loop dog-friendly?
Dogs are welcome on the trail, but they should be kept on a lead, especially near Glastonbury Tor, due to grazing livestock.
Are there any entrance fees or permits required for this hike?
There are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the loop or access Glastonbury Tor itself. However, attractions like Glastonbury Abbey and Chalice Well Gardens may have their own admission fees.
Are there places to eat or drink near the trail?
Yes, the loop starts and ends in Glastonbury town, which is known for its unique atmosphere and offers a variety of shops, cafes, and pubs where you can find refreshments before or after your hike.
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Trail Reviews
Glastonbury in Somerset is regarded by many as the spiritual centre of the UK. Wiccans, Christians and Avalonians come here to live peacefully side-by-side engaged in a search of deeper meaning and enlightenment. Part of that spiritual power is thought to come from the placement of Glastonbury Tor on a so-called 'ley line', proposed by the amateur British archaeologist Alfred Watkins in his 1924 book 'The Old Straight Track'. He proposed that ancient monuments, settlements and notable landscape features are interlinked in a cobweb-like network of 'ley lines', not unlike the energy associations of the Aboriginal 'songlines' and the Chinese 'feng shui' concept of beneficial alignment. In dire need of healing in these dark times, we travelled from Oxford to visit this special place. Upon arrival we were treated to a mixture of dark skies and sunshine as we wandered around town, observing the other tourists experiencing the sacred and the mundane whilst searching among the bazaar and the cathedral. We scaled the Isle of Avalon to experience Glastonbury Tor, which some say is placed at the crossroad between our and other worlds, where the veil between worlds is particularly thin and easily crossed. The location has a special place in Arthurian legends, as written down by Geoffrey of Monmouth in his 'Historia regum Britanniae' from around 1140, which pinpointed important places involving King Arthur, including Tintagel in Cornwall and Caerleon in South Wales. The Isle of Avalon plays a central role as the magical backwater where his sword Excalibur was forged. Many have speculated that this is also the place where the mortally-wounded king was later buried. We took in the extraordinary views from the Tor of the flatlands and marshlands of Somerset as the grey clouds slowly lifted and sunshine returned. Below us, to the east, we could see the site of the Glastonbury Festival, which despite the name is not in Glastonbury but in Pilton 10km away. Strangely, my sadness started to lift and an old song started to play in my head; full of promises of a potential future, not quite slave to love but as Bryan Ferry sings: When you bossanova There's no holding Would you have me dancing Out of nowhere Avalon Bryan Ferry Avalon (Live Montreux 2004) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71vFGpWKnQ8