ST5138 : Sat on the Tor

Glastonbury Tor

158m Elevation
143m Prominence
England Country
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ST5138 : Sat on the Tor

Bill Nicholls Photo source

Explore routes near Glastonbury Tor

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Westhay–Mearse–Shapwick

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Banwell–Vering Down–Winscombe

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Locking Parklands–Hutton–Christon

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Classic Tor Ascent from Glastonbury Town

This well-trodden route begins in the heart of Glastonbury, starting at the Abbey grounds or High Street. Follow the signposted footpaths through the town, heading east towards the base of the Tor. The steep ascent leads to the summit, where you'll enjoy panoramic views of Somerset. The return route retraces your steps, making it a straightforward yet iconic walk.

3.2 km ~1.5 hours Easy

Tor and Chalice Well Circular

Starting near Chalice Well Gardens, this circular route combines a visit to the tranquil gardens with a climb up Glastonbury Tor. Follow the paths through the gardens and join the steady ascent to the Tor summit. Descend via a different track to complete a loop back to the starting point. This route provides a mix of spiritual and natural landmarks.

4.5 km ~2 hours Moderate

Wearyall Hill and Tor Loop

This scenic route begins on Wearyall Hill, with its historical connections to the Glastonbury Thorn. From here, walk through quiet lanes and fields to reach the Tor's base. After ascending to the summit, descend via a different path to complete the loop. This route offers diverse landscapes and a quieter approach to the Tor.

6 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Somerset Levels and Tor Explorer

This longer route takes you through the Somerset Levels before reaching the Tor. Starting at a car park on the Levels, enjoy a flat walk through wetlands and pastures before tackling the iconic hill. The descent leads back through fields and quiet roads to the starting point. Ideal for those seeking a mix of terrain.

10 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Tor Sunrise or Sunset Stroll

A short and rewarding route for catching sunrise or sunset atop the Tor. Start from the designated parking area nearest to the Tor and take the direct footpath to the summit. The route is steep but manageable, and the views are breathtaking at golden hour. Return along the same path.

2 km ~1 hours Easy
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump 100-199m hill Submarilyn

Elevation

158m

518 ft

Prominence

143m

Coordinates

51.1448, -2.6986

ST512386

OS Map

182 183

Explorer: 141

At the Summit

The summit features a notable tower known as St. Michael's Tower, a 14th-century structure that stands as a sentinel over the landscape. There are also fantastic 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside.

Terrain & Geology

Grassland with some rocky sections and gentle slopes making for a pleasant hike.

Glastonbury Tor is primarily composed of locally quarried sandstone and features limestone ridges. The geological formations reveal a fascinating history shaped by ancient seas and glacial activity, making it a subject of interest for geologists and curious wanderers alike.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy views of the Mendip Hills, the Somerset Levels, and on a clear day, even the Bristol Channel. Notable landmarks include Glastonbury Abbey and the distant hills of Wales.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Glastonbury' is derived from the Old English 'Glaestingaburh', meaning 'the fortified place of Glaestinga', referring to the ancient community here.

Historical Significance

Glastonbury Tor is of great historical and mythological significance, often linked to Arthurian legends and regarded as the Isle of Avalon.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park located at the foot of Glastonbury Tor, with additional parking available in nearby Glastonbury town.

Public Transport

Glastonbury has a bus service connecting to major towns like Wells and Taunton. Local buses also run to the Tor.

Nearby Facilities

There are a number of cafes and pubs in Glastonbury where one can indulge in a pre or post-hike snack. Public toilets are also available in the town.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of the occasional slippery grass after rain and uneven paths, particularly on the ascent. It's also wise to be cautious of sudden changes in weather.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Glastonbury Tor?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Glastonbury Tor through the maps

Are there other walkers around Glastonbury Tor?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Glastonbury Tor search or of course create your own walk for Glastonbury Tor

Can I organise a walk to Glastonbury Tor?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Glastonbury Tor.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Glastonbury Tor?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Glastonbury Tor here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Glastonbury Tor location map

Grid reference: ST512386

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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