Somerset Walks

Glastonbury Tor Walk

5.01 rating
DifficultyModerate
Glastonbury Tor walk, Somerset
Glastonbury Tor · Photo: Anthony Parkes

If you’re after a walk that blends charming streets, rolling countryside, and a touch of mystery, the Glastonbury Tor walk ticks all the boxes. Starting in the heart of town, you’ll wander past quirky shops and cosy pubs before heading out into the open fields. A short but steep climb rewards you with sweeping views of Somerset — and a little history thrown in for good measure.

Download the Somerset Walks App to follow this route with real-time GPS navigation.

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At a glance

Glastonbury Tor Walk

Distance
2.5 miles
Estimated time
1.5 hours
Route type
Circular
GPS app guided
Yes
Parking
Paid parking at start
51.14649, -2.71722
Characteristics
Hills, Countryside, Town, History, Pub

The walk

Glastonbury Tor Walk

The walk begins in Glastonbury town centre, where it’s impossible not to get sidetracked by the independent shops selling crystals, incense, and locally made treats. You’ll also pass plenty of inviting cafés and pubs — handy if you need to “fuel up” before the climb.

Once you leave the bustle of the town, the route meanders into the countryside. As the Tor grows larger on the horizon, you can feel the anticipation building. The final push up the hill is steep enough to get the heart pumping, but nothing too extreme — and once you reach the top, you’ll forget about the effort entirely.

At the summit stands St Michael’s Tower, a roofless stone structure that feels like a relic from another world. From here, you can take in panoramic views across the Isle of Avalon, Glastonbury, and the Somerset Levels. On a clear day, it’s simply breathtaking.

It’s the kind of walk that gives you a little bit of everything — town, country, history, and views that make you pause for a moment (or several). Whether you believe in the legends of the Isle of Avalon or you’re just here for the fresh air, the Glastonbury Tor walk will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped into another world.

Points of Interest

Glastonbury High Street – Colourful shops, mystical bookshops, and artisan cafés.

The Somerset Countryside – Green fields, grazing sheep, and that fresh country air.

St Michael’s Tower – The iconic roofless landmark atop the Tor.

Views of the Somerset Levels – Expansive landscapes, perfect for photography.

FAQ’s

Q: Where does the walk start

A: Glastonbury Tor walk start point and parking: grid reference 51.146489,-2.71722

Q: How long is the walk?

A: The walk is 2.5 miles. Depending on your pace (and how many shop stops you make), expect around 1.5 hours +.

Q: Is the climb difficult?

A: It’s steep in parts, but manageable for most. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Q: Are there refreshments?

A: Plenty! Glastonbury has pubs, cafés, and tea rooms both before and after the walk.

Q: Is there parking nearby?

A: The Somerset Walks app will take you to the parking and starting location.

Based on 1 user rating

Community feedback

Overall rating5.0

An outstanding walk

Dog friendly5.0 / 5

Dog heaven

Path condition5.0 / 5

Clear and easy

Buggy friendly1.0 / 5

Not suitable for pushchairs

Wheelchair friendly1.0 / 5

Not wheelchair accessible

Toilet facilities3.0 / 5

Some facilities

Pub or café5.0 / 5

Amazing stop

Route accuracy5.0 / 5

Spot on

ClimbingSteep climbs
LivestockRarely any livestock
StilesA stile or two
Mud levelMay be muddy after wet weather

Real feedback from people who have completed this walk using the Somerset Walks app.

Navigate the walks

Somerset Walks App

Follow the Glastonbury Tor walk with GPS guidance

The easiest way to follow this route is with the Somerset Walks app. Choose the walk and follow the pointer showing your live position on the route map, so you can see you're on the right path.

The app works without a phone signal, so you can keep following the route wherever the walk takes you.

Download the app

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play

On a computer? Scan the QR code with your phone's camera to get the Somerset Walks app.

Somerset Walks app showing the walker's live position on a route map

Designed to be simple

  • Choose a walk and follow the pointer
  • See your live position on the route map
  • Works without a phone signal
  • Includes 250 Somerset walks
  • Free one-month trial
  • Available for iPhone and Android

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Expanded route map for Glastonbury Tor Walk, a 2.5 mile circular walk in Somerset